Marta's Solo Performance at the 2025 Live Music Summer Intensive in Sydney: Celebrating Oum Kalthoum, Arabic Music and Dance
PHOTO'S BY Tristan BakerThe 18th Annual Live Music & Dance Summer Intensive, held on January 25-26, 2025, at the iconic Amera's Palace in Marrickville, Sydney, immersed dancers in the rich world of Arabic music and dance. Marta was honoured to be a featured guest artist, performing a captivating solo that beautifully complemented the event’s theme, Kawkab El Sharq (The Star of the East), inspired by the timeless music of Oum Kalthoum, Egypt's "Voice of Egypt."
Dancers from Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond had the incredible opportunity to deepen their understanding of Arabic music, dancing and learning from world-class musicians such as Emad Nosir (Egypt), Mohammed Lelo (Iraq), Atif Badria (Syria), and Stuart Vandegraff (Australia). Dancers also got to experience sessions from Jrisi Jusakos (Chile/Greece): Director / Facilitator and Virginia Masri (Egypt): Guest dance artist from Melbourne. This immersive experience not only enhanced their knowledge of maqams, rhythms, and Arabic music theory but also allowed them to apply this knowledge in a collaborative, creative environment. Through exploration of improvisation and choreography, participants developed an intimate connection with the music and culture, culminating in a live performance at the Café Riche Recital.
Marta’s solo performance was a highlight, offering a stunning example of the magic that happens when dancers truly connect with live music. The weekend was a celebration of Arabic culture, where dancers worked alongside master musicians to create and perform an original piece, showcasing the beauty of Arabic music and heartfelt dance.
Each featured soloist had the opportunity to choose their own song by Oum Kalthoum. Marta, however, struggled to select one, so her facilitator, Jrisi Jusakos, chose Ana f'inta zarak ("I’m waiting for you") for her. It was by chance that she ended up with this piece, which turned out to be perfect for Marta.
This beautiful composition allowed Marta to work through some personal challenges in her life, not just as a dancer, but as a woman. Having recently parted ways with a loved, Marta found healing through the improvisational experience of dancing to live music. The piece symbolised her emotional journey of waiting, letting go, and finding strength. The live musicians played with incredible skill, helping Marta express her emotions with every note. Their artistry enabled her to connect deeply with the music, using the dance as a powerful form of personal expression and healing.