B O B B Y ' S G I F T

We would like to dedicate this page to all the dancers of Middle Eastern dance; and especially to Ibrahim (Bobby) Farrah who gave so much to this art form.

Being taught by him was a most unique experience for all of us who were fortunate enough to be able to take classes at Fazil's Studio in New York. The building in which classes were given was in the worst side of town; however, we didn't care because we knew we were going to one of Bobby's classes.

We had teachers' workshops that lasted an entire week. We'd sweat, our feet would hurt, our bodies ached; but in the end we watched people grow into fine dancers. People from all over the world came to these workshops. Bobby was a magnet and an instrument through whom people became dancers; and dancers became passionate about the dance; and the dance was, therefore, perpetuated.

My sister and I made so many wonderful friends through out these inspired years. Even now, the enriching of our love for dance through workshops and classes is a part of our lives. Many years ago Bobby said, "You never know enough. You can always learn something new."

Zuhela Yamir

Dance Over To My Other Pages

Zuhela's Dance Page: Instructor of Orientale and Folkloric Dances
Our Guestbook: Please sign our Guestbook, we love to hear from you.
View Our Guestbook: Please view our Guestbook.
Picture Gallery: Photos of Yamir Sisters and Troupe Benat Sharkien
Ibrahim Farrah's Workshops: Photo's of the teachers: Ibrahim (Bobby) Farrah, Elena, Jajouka, Darlena. A photo of The Yamir Sisters
Orientale Dance: A topic on Oriental Dance by Zuhela

When I'm in the world of dance I am lifted above the harsh realities of every day life and flown to an exotic and magical place. It is a place where time has stopped-where the ancient and the new come alive and all else is fogotton.

I remember Bobby Farrah and the studio where my sister and I studied. Every profession in the real world was represented, but once we had our leotards on and the music began we were transported and transformed into "Dancers". All of us were equals in our passion and eagerness to learn-spinning across the floor trying to force the body to the will of the mind.

It is still like that today. Class begins and I bring my world weary body onto the floor and forget all my aches and pains. Once again I am on the desert paying homage to the gods.

On Ibrahim"Bobby"Farrah:

He was a mentor to some, a father to others, a teacher and a friend. He had a presence that filled a room when he entered. He commanded respect and earned admiration. We have lost a great talent and I will miss him terribly.

-Maia-


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