Who We Are
Our Story
Founded in 2009 by Gamila Abdelrahman, Shabbal Dance is a nonprofit cultural organization dedicated to showcasing the richness of Sudanese culture through dance and the performing arts. What began as a group of young Sudanese women and men dancing together informally soon became a collective with a shared purpose, officially forming Shabbal and making their first public appearance at the Celebrate Sudan Festival in Berkeley.
Since then, the group has continued to share its artistry at local events and in partnership with nonprofit organizations, using performance as a powerful tool for storytelling and connection. Through every step and rhythm, Shabbal celebrates the diversity of Sudanese dance and music, preserves traditions passed down through generations, and creates space for collaboration across cultures.
With a mission rooted in diversity, peace, and unity, Shabbal Dance also strives to educate and empower communities—ensuring that the history, techniques, and meaning behind each performance inspire future generations to embrace and carry forward Sudanese culture.
What is Shabbal?
"Shabbal" is a deeply rooted Sudanese tradition passed down through generations, particularly in northern Sudan, as a beautiful expression of connection in Sudanese dance
In this captivating gesture, The female dancer swings her braided, beaded hair with dramatic flair, letting it lightly touch the face or shoulder of her male partner. It’s a moment full of grace and meaning, symbolizing respect and the bond between them.
In response, the male dancer performs bishshair (or tabshiir), a courtship gesture where he extends his arm and snaps his fingers to create a rhythmic crackling sound. The female dancer, in turn, waves her beaded hair, the colorful beads and shells enhancing its movement and adding a rhythmic charm to the performance.
This exchange is more than just a dance; it’s a meaningful act of communication, a celebration of admiration, and a reflection of the deep cultural traditions that are passed down through generations in Sudanese art.
Our Mission
Our mission is to introduce and share the richness of Sudanese performing arts in the Bay Area and beyond, celebrating the vibrant traditions and stories that shape our heritage.
Through captivating performances and an inspiring online presence, we aim to connect, inspire, and grow, making Sudanese culture accessible and appreciated worldwide. Join us as we celebrate the vibrant traditions and rhythms of our heritage.
Building Community
Shabbal Dance is a place of integration among Sudanese communities in Northern California, where individuals can reconnect, thrive, and feel supported—celebrating culture, building confidence, and strengthening community through dance and the performing arts.
Founded in 2009 by Gamila Abdelrahman, Shabbal Dance is a nonprofit cultural organization dedicated to showcasing the richness of Sudanese culture through dance and the performing arts. What began as a group of young Sudanese women and men dancing together informally soon became a collective with a shared purpose, officially forming Shabbal and making their first public appearance at the Celebrate Sudan Festival in Berkeley.
Since then, the group has continued to engage with the dance community, sharing its artistry at local dance events and partnering with nonprofit organizations. They use performance as a powerful tool for storytelling and connection. Through every step and rhythm, Shabbal celebrates the diversity of Sudanese dance and music, preserves traditions passed down through generations, and creates space for collaboration across cultures.
With a mission rooted in diversity, peace, and unity, Shabbal Dance also strives to educate and empower communities—ensuring that the history, techniques, and meaning behind each dance performance inspire future generations to embrace and carry forward Sudanese culture.