The ensemble NASEJE - FOLKLORE DANCING DABKA comes from the Druze village of Beit Jann, situated at the south-western side of Mt Meron in the Israeli Northern District, which encompasses the historical region of Upper Galilee. The Druze religion has its roots in Ismailism, a religio-philosophical movement which came into being at the turn of the 10th and 11th centuries, blending Islam, gnosticism and elements of Christianity with Greek philosophy and Hindu influences. The Druze consider the traditional story of the Creation a parable, which describes Adam not as the first human being, but as the first person to believe in one god. Thus, the mentors and prophets come from the three monotheistic religions, and include Jethro and Moses, John the Baptist and Jesus of Nazareth, and Salman the Persian and Mohammed – all reincarnations of the same monotheistic idea.
The name of the ensemble refers to a Levantine folk circle dance (dabka) of possible Canaanite or Phoenician origin, which today is performed in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Israel. It is a form of both circle and line dancing, and is widely performed at weddings and on other joyous occasions. The ensemble is composed of 36 children aged 10-14, and at the Festival they will perform dances presenting the idea of peace, Druze wedding ceremonies, folk poetry.
The ensemble and band leader is Dr. Ashraf Shawah.
The name of the ensemble refers to a Levantine folk circle dance (dabka) of possible Canaanite or Phoenician origin, which today is performed in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Israel. It is a form of both circle and line dancing, and is widely performed at weddings and on other joyous occasions. The ensemble is composed of 36 children aged 10-14, and at the Festival they will perform dances presenting the idea of peace, Druze wedding ceremonies, folk poetry.
The ensemble and band leader is Dr. Ashraf Shawah.