In the mid-1990s there was a huge interest in oriental dance all over Finland. Many women in Oulu also wanted to learn this exotic new dance, which was regarded as a “softer” and “earthier” alternative to aerobics. Yasmine ry was founded in 1994 to meet this need and to provide high-quality tuition. Today, Yasmine ry is the biggest association of oriental dance in Northern Finland. Over the years association has brought many high-class Finnish and foreign oriental dance teachers to Oulu. The most famous of these teachers is undoubtedly Mr. Mahmoud Reda, the great Egyptian folk dance choreographer. Yasmine ry has its own dance studio at Isokatu 84, 90120 Oulu.
Yasmine ry offers lessons of oriental dance on several levels (from beginners to the advanced) and for all age groups (from children to seniors). The lessons are organized not only by weekly basis but also as short courses at weekends. The society also offers introductory courses in Arabic music (tabla and other instruments).
The highlight of our dance year is the Spring Show, which is usually in mid or late May. Members also perform at private parties (weddings, birthdays, hen nights) and at large business events. Yasmine ry has actively co-operated with local schools and offered introductory workshops for students of all ages in Arabic dance and music. Yasmine ry has also arranged several multi-cultural Women’s Evenings in co-operation with the City of Oulu. All of our teachers are able to provide instructions in English, so if you got interested and would like to try a new hobby, contact Yasmine ry by sending an e-mail to our course secretary, kurssisihteeri(at)yasmine.fi.