Dancing Through Grief, a Grounding Journey Through Iraqi Dance
Sun, 23rd Nov 2025 03:00 pm - 04:00 pm
20
Step into the world of Radeh and Kawliya, traditional Iraqi dances born from the ancient rhythms of Mesopotamia Rooted in the traditions of the Kawliya people of southern Iraq, this dance carries influences from India, Persia, and the Arab world. It’s a dance of storytelling, where we express joy, love, and grief, and find our way back to ourselves and our community In this embodied workshop, we’ll explore the foundations of Kawliya, from grounded footwork and flowing torso movements to expressive hand gestures and hair flips that channel liberation and strength. You’ll dance solo or in pairs, learning to harmonise with another dancer, exploring how connection and rhythm can heal and empower. This workshop is for women only. No experience is needed; come with curiosity and a willingness to move. What to Expect: Trauma-informed guidance: everything is optional, no pressure to perform. Gentle warm-ups and techniques to feel safe and grounded. Exploration of traditional Iraqi movements, hair flips, and hand gestures. Opportunities to dance solo, with a partner, or simply observe. Reflection and grounding moments throughout the session. What to Bring: Comfortable clothes (dress, yoga wear, or anything you can move freely in) Yoga mat Scarf or accessory for playful expression (optional) Open heart and curiosity If the full price isn’t possible but you’d love to join, a Concession / Pay-What-You-Can Ticket: a lower price or promo code can be offered upon request. For more information, please email: rowa.barashi@dremotions.com.au Date & Time: 23/11/2025 | 3:00–4:00 PM Location: Bigbang Studio, Northcote Facilitator: Mariam (She/Her) – Social worker and trauma-informed Iraqi dance facilitator. Rooted in her Iraqi heritage, Mariam empowers participants to feel safe and at home in their bodies through movement, collective expression, and connection. Rowa (She/Her) – Melbourne-based trauma-informed belly dance and yoga teacher. With a background in traditional Raqs Sharqi and movement medicine, Rowa supports participants in reconnecting with their bodies, releasing tension, and embracing expressive, healing dance.
Featured Artists
Refund policy
No refunds
About the Host
Rowa (She/Her) Trauma-Informed Belly Dance and Yoga Teacher. Born and raised in the heart of the Middle East, surrounded by musical rhythms and the joy of dance, Rowa is a Melbourne-based dance and wellness movement teacher and a professional performance artist. With over 6 years of dedicated study and practice, Rowa has honed her craft in yoga and dance, specializing in trauma-informed techniques that empower individuals to heal through movement. Rowa has studied traditional Raqs Sharqi (Egyptian and Oriental Dance), drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Morocco, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. Her teaching and performances celebrate the beauty and depth of these traditional dances, blending them with modern approaches to wellness. Since beginning her yoga teaching journey in 2018, Rowa has developed a unique approach that integrates belly dance, yoga, and movement medicine. Her classes are designed to stretch and strengthen the body, release tension, restore balance, and foster a deeper connection to breath and inner consciousness. With a passion for helping others, Rowa uses movement as a transformative tool to unlock, unwind, and renew, allowing her students to reconnect with themselves and heal through the power of dance and mindfulness. She shares her love for dance and wellness with diverse communities. Her work is not just about movement but also about creating a safe space for self-expression, growth, and healing.
