Deepen your technique. Discover regional traditions. Learn from world-class artists. Connect through movement.
The inaugural 2027 edition features Master Instructor Mohanned Hawaz, with 10 hours of Iraqi dance training, an Open Stage, and a Gala Show in Toronto from March 19–21, 2027.
Hashtaka Raqs Festival 2027
Featuring Master Instructor Mohanned Hawaz
March 19–21, 2027 | Toronto, Canada
Hashtaka Raqs Festival welcomes Master Instructor Mohanned Hawaz to Toronto for an immersive weekend dedicated to Iraqi dance, culture, technique and musicality.
Across 10 hours of training, dancers will explore the distinctive movement qualities of Iraqi dance, regional folk traditions, rhythms, footwork and expression through several different styles.
The weekend will also include an Open Stage and Gala Show on Saturday evening.
Location: TBA — all workshops and festival activities will take place within Toronto.
Full Weekend Workshop Schedule
Registration is now Open
Friday, March 19 | 6:15–8:15 PM
Iraqi vs. Oriental Dance (Bellydance): Movement, Style & Expression
Mohanned will demonstrate and break down movements as they are executed in Iraqi dance compared with Oriental dance, helping dancers understand differences in posture, weight placement, energy, execution, musical interpretation and overall movement quality.
This workshop will establish an important foundation for the rest of the weekend.
Saturday, March 20 | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM
Iraqi Technique, Footwork & Movement Vocabulary
A technical introduction to Iraqi movement designed to prepare dancers for the folkloric material that follows.
Students will work on characteristic foot patterns, weight transfers, travelling movements, coordination, rhythm and movement dynamics while developing a stronger understanding of Iraqi dance technique.
Saturday, March 20 | 1:30–3:30 PM
Al-Khashaba Dance — Basra
Originating in Basra, Al-Khashaba is a traditional dance characterized by powerful rhythms and agile, dynamic movement.
Historically, the dance has masculine roots and was—and continues to be—performed primarily by men in private male gatherings. Women also perform Al-Khashaba today, often incorporating a more feminine movement quality while preserving the foundations of the style.
One of the most distinctive elements of Al-Khashaba is the dialogue between the dancer and the Kasour drummer. The dancer responds directly to the musician, creating a spontaneous exchange in which rhythm, movement and energy develop together.
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Sunday, March 21 | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM
Iraqi Technique (Kawliya Dance) - hair toss, shoulders, weight changes
Focus on neck and head movement, hair toss, shoulder articulation, footwork, posture, weight changes, musical interpretation, expressive movement, and dynamic transitions.
This class is designed to give dancers a strong technical foundation before moving into choreography.
Sunday, March 21 | 1:30–3:30 PM
Iraqi Kawliya Dance Choreography
Finish the weekend by applying the technique learned throughout the festival in a complete Iraqi Kawliya choreography with Mohanned.
Students will explore the fast-paced energy, strong rhythms, expressive body language, footwork, shoulder and head movements, and performance quality associated with Iraqi Kawliya dance while learning a full choreographic piece.
Workshop content and titles may be adjusted in consultation with the instructor. Hashtaka will notify registered participants of any significant changes in advance.
Full Weekend Pass
Your pass includes all 10 hours of workshops with Mohanned Hawaz.
Early Bird — $499 + HST (only 10)
Once these 10 passes are sold, registration moves to the next tier.
Tier 2 — $549 + HST (limited available)
Regular price - $649+ HST
All pricing is in Canadian dollars.
Payment Plan Available
Reserve your place with a $200 non-refundable deposit + HST.
The remaining balance will be divided into 4 monthly instalments, due in:
October • November • December • January
For a $499 Early Bird Pass:
$200 deposit + 4 payments of $74.75, plus applicable HST.
For a $549 Tier 2 Pass:
$200 deposit + 4 payments of $87.25, plus applicable HST.
Your registration must be fully paid before the festival.
Registration & Cancellation Policy
All registrations, deposits and instalment payments are non-refundable.
If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your registration to another dancer. Transfer requests must be communicated to Hashtaka in advance and approved before the new participant attends.
Registrations cannot be transferred to a future Hashtaka event or credited toward other classes, workshops or services.
Failure to complete an agreed payment plan may result in the loss of your reserved place and all payments already made.
In the unlikely event that Hashtaka cancels the festival in its entirety, registered participants will receive a refund of workshop registration fees paid. Hashtaka is not responsible for participants' travel, accommodation, transportation or other personal expenses.