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comments and messages 2005 through June 2006

71) Cathy Skora - Jameela
e-mail folkloric@aol.com
URL: http://folkloric.org
Location: Buffalo NY
Mon, February 20, 2006

 How lucky we all were to have the opportunity to be in the presence of ,and be mentored by such a special artist. Bobby opened a door for all of us to see the endless possibilities within creativity and within ourselves. His work will continue to shine through all of us who were fortunate enough to study with him and be a part of his creative process. 

70) SORAYA
e-mail SorayaEnt@aol.com
URL: http://www.bellydancebysoraya.com
Location: Margate,PrincetonNJ, GladwynePA
Mon, February 6, 2006 

Dear Phaedra,
Marhaba! Your website is lovely and your photos are beautiful. The site dedicated to the late, great Bobby Farrah is incredible...I 
loved working privately with Bobby in NYC for my special choreographies for Concerts. His feeling, dramaticism, technique and 
showmanship will be missed always...
Yours in dance,
SORAYA 

69) Norma Wirt (Nadire)
e-mail nwirt@hotmail.com
Location: Lexington, KY
Tue, January 31, 2006 

I first met Bobby at a seminar in 1977 in Dallas, TX where he was 
teaching a weekend seminar with Phaedra. Eddie Kochak was there with his band and I learned so much that weekend that has stayed with me. I continued attending his seminars in the early 80's when I was a member of Troupe Hyetti, under the direction of the fabulous Shahira in Knoxville, TN. I was fortunate enough to attend more seminars in Raleigh, NC when Sharjah hosted him there. Although I no longer dance in public, I still enjoy the music, and watching other dancers. Bobby gave me an appreciation for the dance, the culture and the music. For this I am eternally grateful.

68) Magdalene Laissy
e-mail magdalenelaissy@t-online.de
URL: http://www.magdalenedesign.com
Location: frankfurt am Main, germany
Tue, January 17, 2006 

 thank you for this link to the spiritual world of dance, to this great wonderful human teacher that was ibrahim farrah. 



67) Jennifer Zenovia Limberakis
e-mail zenoviajennifer@hotmail.com
URL: http://oils.younglivingworld.com
Location: Mill Valley, CA
Wed, November 9, 2005 21:24 Host: ACA48EE9.ipt.aol.com Bobby, My soul brother, still lives on in my heart, my dance, my 
friends and in the music...the little devil! I just now opened the site and look forward to journeying through it and maybe 
connecting to some Bobbie Dolls. I am thankful for this site. 




66) Leyla Zahar
e-mail leylaz@leylazahar.net
Location: Puerto Rico
Mon, September 12, 2005 18:49 IP: 64.237.160.198 I'm very, very happy to have found this site where a deserved homage is 
paid to one of the teachers who left a deep mark in my career as an oriental dancer: Ibrahim "Bobby" Farrah.
Rest in peace and dance forever...! dear Bobby. Thanks for everything!
Leyla Zahar 




65) Karen (Zaina)
e-mail kdmills@bellsouth.net
Location: Knoxville, TN
Thu, May 26, 2005 16:11 

What a wonderful site. I have such fond memories of traveling 
around the south with Shahira and Troupe Hyetti going to seminars with Bobby and dancing and laughing and having such a good time!!! 




64) BAHIJAH
e-mail BAHIJAH@AOL.COM
Location: NEW YORK
Thu, March 10, 2005 21:31 

Seeing Bobby's warm smiling face makes me ache for those days when we crowded into Fazil's studio and tried to capture some of that incredible energy that flowed from him. Oh what a great teacher Bobby was! He projected such joy and excitement that classes never seemed long enough -- even when we were exhausted. And on stage Bobby erupted with even more energy. As a choreographer he created incredibly beautiful numbers and numbers that captured the essence and richness of the Middle East Folk Dance tradition. He gave so much to those who studied and danced with him. Surely his like will not be seen again. Phaedra, thank you for setting up this website and reminding us how much we owe to Ibrahim Farrah. 





63) Chamara
e-mail Lady_Chamara@hotmail.com
URL: http://www.geocities.com/ShevaSchl
Location: Richmond, VA
Thu, March 3, 2005 21:54 

 I'm so very delighted to find this site in honor of Ibrahim. I was privileged to participate in a workshop he taught in Richmond, Virginia, in November, 1986 at the Richmond Marriott, sponsored by Sheva's School of Belly Dancing. I was most pleased and privileged to dance in the welcoming party for him the night of his arrival in Richmond.

We will never forget Ibrahim. 




62) farah zavala
Mon, February 28, 2005 21:40 

What a wonderful site! Though I did not take lessons from him, many of my instructors were his students. Now that I teach I feel very privileged to continue to pass on his knowledge and style. 




61) Samara
e-mail samaradance@ecoisp.com
URL: http://samaradance.com
Location: New York City
Sat, February 19, 2005 02:22 

I remember a very famous teacher in another dance genre said to me "Bobby is not only a master of Middle Eastern Dance, He is a master of movement." That he was! He understood energy and how to send it through the body. He knew that dance is breath and everything he did had a heart beat. There was never a class or a rehearsal at which I was not inspired. His talent as a teacher was a gift to us all. Bobby taught us that dance was a full human experience of body, mind, and soul. His vision of this dance in a theatrical setting was enormous. Bobby once told me the theater was his church. I understood that more as time passed.It was there he could elevate a dance so misunderstood and create it's beauty, it's potential. The years Bobby dedicated his life to the Dances of The Near East were years the dance thrived throughout this country. Through his hard work a standard for the dance developed and reference as to what to strive for gave dancers focus and motivation.For me... I feel so lucky to have stood behind him in the class room year after year. I feel priviliged to have danced with him on stage and to have been a member of his Near East Dance Group. Bobby was my mentor, and I know there are many dancers who understand the loss I feel. I can only hope to pass on some of what was given to me.

Phaedra, Thank you for your dedication and this beautiful tribute to Bobby who will live on in our hearts, our dance, our prayers.

Forever with Love,
Samara (Teri Joon) 




60) Linda(Bradford)Neumeister
e-mail Nacira@optonline.net
Location: Denville, NJ
Thu, February 17, 2005 

 Bobby was the heart and soul of Oriental Dance. I feel privileged to have taken classes from him . When he performed, his love for the dance and internal energy was overwhelming. He is greatly missed. Thank you Phyllis for keeping his memory alive. Nacira 

59) Erika Ochoa
e-mail mail@erikadance.com
URL: http://www.erikadance.com
Location: Chicago IL
Mon, February 14, 2005 

I did not get the opportunity to meet him in person, but I have such a big admiration for him and all of the work he did, but I have the opportunity to travel to NYC every summer to study with Samara and Jajouka and honestly they completely changed my life forever and my dancing, I have a lot of respect and admiration for all of the beautiful dancers he created also.I also love to go to Lincoln center to watch his videos, such a big inspiration!! Thank you Bobby.
:-)

58) Paulette Singer
e-mail Ppress322@aol.com
URL: http://members.aol/ppress322/music1/index.htm
Location: Manhattan, New York City
Sun, February 13, 2005 

Seeing Bobby here brought tears to my eyes as I have missed him so much. Former ballet dancer until I first saw Bobby in Fazils where I was studying Spanish Dance with Maria Alba and Jose 
Molina. I was always in awe of Bobby until I followed my heart and started to study with him. I was one of the lucky dancers that lived in New York and had the opportunity to dance in Bobbys classes in the 80s until he died. He was a great inspiration to his students and a choreographic Genius and there will never be another of his equal. I knew from the first class that I took what an honor and privelege it was to dance with Bobby. I had the honor of bringing him his 50th birthday cake at the party in Fazils. He is truly one of a kind and the brightest light in my life and for so many others whose heart he touched. Thank you so much Phyllis for this lovely website. 


57) Lynda A. Mathe
Location: Millbrae, CA
Thu, January 27, 2005

How wonderful to see Bobby's familiar, smiling face on this web site! Bobby is unequalled in his dedication and passion to Middle Eastern dance and culture. I was privileged and honored 
to have been a regular at Bobby's New York City studio throughout the 70's, after a great year of study in San Francisco with Jamila Salimpour.

At the beginning of class before we danced, Bobby would have us sit and take notes as he spoke to us about the Middle Eastern culture, geography, movements, symbolism, and so much more. He related our dance movements and positions to MidEastern architecture and art. Bobby made sure that we had a deep, not superficial understanding of the Middle Eastern dance as an art form.

Bobby choreographed the "Arabian Dance" for me to perform in the Nutcracker Ballet, and helped design the costume. He generously mentored me in developing my dance company, Troupe Zaghareet East, and was proud of our "Holidays Around the World" performances for the Bicentennial celebration in 1976 in the mezzanine of the World Trade Center's Twin Tower. Bobby encouraged our performances at educational venues such as libraries and museums. He even came to Nutley, NJ to cheer on my students' recital. Bobby was inspirational and supportive, way "above and beyond the call of duty."

Thank you, Phaedra, for this beautiful and fitting tribute to Ibrahim Farrah, teacher, mentor and friend! 


56) Aiva
e-mail aiva@juno.com
Location: New Jersey
Sat, January 15, 2005 22:26 

What a beautiful tribute to a truly great choreographer,dancer, and teacher. His classes were hard, his teaching techniques unconventional, and he could pull artistry out of you that you never knew you possessed - if you were willing to work and sweat and leave your ego at the door. He gave 150% of 
himself in each class he taught- and expected the same in return. I was fortunate enough to attend regular classes since 1989- and my view of the world was forever changed by what I learned with Bobby. Thank you Phaedra for the lovely website for a truly inspirational teacher and choreographer. 



55) Terri "Dahabeya" Dirks
e-mail dahabeya@hotmail.com
URL: http://amiradanceproductions.com
Location: Wichita, KS
Mon, January 10, 2005 

I am one of the ripples mentioned by Lettie "Mish Mish bint Amira" Abdelaziz. Lettie's mother, Amira, who was taught by Bobby, was my teacher and second mother. I loved and adored Amira and miss her with all of my heart, I'm sure as much as those directly taught by Bobby miss him. When someone touches our lives and gives us something so precious as their time and knowledge, their loss is enormous. Dance communities across the nation mourned Bobby, and I know his student, Amira was mourned by many in our dance world. Now I am teaching another generation of dancers with Bobby's teachings through Amira's training of me. I will continue Amira's tradition of traveling to Bobby's studios to learn from the teachers he trained and pass that valuable knowledge on. I miss Amira greatly and remember clearly her grief when the dance world lost Bobby. We've all lost precious teachers and can only strive to teach as well as they did and make them proud of us. 



54) Mish Mish B'int Amira
e-mail lettie@aol.com
Sat, January 8, 2005 

I arrived on Bobby's "doorstep" Jan 7, 1977 a ballet dancer from Kansas. He loved to refer to me as his "adoped daughter" and I cherished his protection. He even named me Mish Mish, like a 
father would name his own child.At Bobby's doorstep I entered a world of art and inspiration that few had the priviledge to view. Bobby and the wonderful artists that I danced with and love to this day color the creative work that I continue today in my little corner of the dance world. As I weep because of our loss, the tears remind me of a drop falling from the sky and dropping into a pool, a reaction begins, that causes the pool to form ripples that continue to the end of time. Bobby was that beautiful "drop", and we are all the ripples of his inspiration that will continue to the end of time.My mother, Amira, has joined Bobby in the after life and Bobby's "drop" impacted her life. Her ripples left behind will grow and touch other ripples and drops.
Love, Lettie 



53) ANJELIKA
e-mail Anjelika1@aol.com
Location: New York
Tue, January 4, 2005  

A deep loss for entire dance community. 


52) Nagwa Sai'd (Judy Malitas)
e-mail Nagwas@aol.com
URL: http://www.nagwa.com
Location: Philadelphia Pa.
Sat, January 1, 2005 

Poem To my friend Bobby

I never will forget!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The first time we ever met
I walked up those stairs to the studio that day
I saw Bobby in class as I heard him dance and those finger cymbals play
WOW, was my thought in my head at the time
How could I ever do that OH!! but maybe in time
So I joined the class and came every week
Through you it is art and dance that I did seek
So all that you gave and all that you said have stayed in my heart as I look ahead
I take what you gave as our gift is to share and pass to those who love this dance and care!!!!!!!!!!!!
Your mark is left forever and we will forget you NEVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!
With ALL MY LOVE TO YOU PHAEDRA & BOBBY
GOD BLESS YOU FOREVER IN HEAVEN..... 


51) Jemela Omar
e-mail jemelapa@rcn.com
Location: 401 first ave
Sat, December 25, 2004 

My love for you as an artist and a friend are between you, me, and God, who I know you are choreographing for right now...I miss you terribly!
xxxJemela 



50) Stella Grey
e-mail stellajuststella@mac.com
URL: http://www.bellydanceny.com/toc.html
Location: NYC
Mon, December 20, 2004

This beautiful site is a wonderful tribute to Ibrahim Farrah. Not only is it a gift to his countless friends and students all over the world, it is a necessary reminder to all of us of Bobby's central role in shaping contemporary Middle Eastern dance. Through his productions, choreographies, publications, and seminars Bobby brought a new standard of excellence to the form. He taught the teachers who are teaching the next generation of dancers. New students are coming into our dance every day--it is crucial that they appreciate Bobby's legacy and how much of what we have, we 
have from him. 



49) Walid Assaf
e-mail walidassafdrum@sbcglobal.net
URL: http://www.DancerAndDrummer.com
Location: Oceanside, CA
Thu, December 16, 2004 

Phaedra, a lovely site. As a musician who has worked with hundreds of dancers over the years, I respected Bobby so much. He created and brought out the best in all who crossed his path. Remember him pushing the van to get it started on Boston so he could get to a class and teach? He was so funny and that 
without coffee. He was a warm and wonderful person. I always felt honored to be in his presence. I loved the shows he presented. He really knew his culture and the dance. From a fellow Phoenician.

Walid Assaf 




48) Morwenna Assaf
e-mail adacomplex@sbcgobal.net
URL: http://www.DancerAndDrummer.com
Location: San Diego County, CA
Thu, December 16, 2004 

Thank you Phyllis for this fabulous site. It is a tribute or merit. As you know Bobby was not only my teacher for over 25 years but was also a dear friend and mentor. Still miss him as much today as I did the day I moved from the East Coast never thinking I would never get to share another cup of coffee with him again. I still forget that he will never be at the end of a phone line again. He was not only the Master of this dance form and an incredible genius with choreography and teaching. He inspired all of us. He gave his ALL to those of us who studied with him. Plus his complete support as an artist and as an individual. I am very proud to have known this genius of our time and to have been a part of his life. It is now up to us to continue his legacy. It is our responsibility to carry on his word. This dance form deserves the respect he gave to it. This can only be done through education.

Bobby gave us a gift. Let us keep him alive through his works and ideals. It is time for us to step out and speak up for what we believe is correct. He gave us the materials to make a difference. Let’s share it with others. How I remember the shows depicted on this site. Such wonderful memories! Bobby may you look down and see that your words and actions are being continued. Hope you are smiling and not frowning too much. Those who loved you are doing our best with what you gave us.
Love you Bobby and you too Phyllis 



47) Larissa Alexandra Lysenko
e-mail larissa@gotalk.net.au
Location: Australia
Thu, December 9, 2004 

Bobby's passion and dedication created an unprecedented respect for the Near Eastern Dance. Whilst with his company I not only improved my dance technically, but was able to elevate myself as an artist, no longer living with the "Belly Dancer" image the Dance held in the l950's when I first started in Australia.

Larissa. 




46) Iris J. Stewart
e-mail Iris@SacredDancer.com
URL: http://www.Sacreddancer.com
Location: California
Wed, December 8, 2004 

I have fond memories of taking "danceshops" with Bobby when I lived in New Jersey, seeing him and the Near East Dance Troupe performances in places like the Riverside Church and New York 
night clubs. Bobby was special, and I miss him. I am also grateful to him for his other deep interest and leadership - in the history and deeper meaning of the dance, (as evidenced by the wonderful statement by him on the website opening). I subscribed to his first edition of Arabesque, and still have all the copies ! They were very helpful in my research efforts as I wrote my book, 
"Sacred Woman, Sacred Dance: Awakening Spirituality Through Movement and Ritual". www.Sacreddancer.com 



45) Leona Wood
Location: Los Angeles
Wed, December 8, 2004 

Bobby’s combined roles of mentor, artist, producer and publisher positioned him to give encouragement and support to all those active in the promulgation of Middle Eastern arts and 
culture. 


44) Aisha Ali
e-mail aisha@aisha-ali.com
URL: http://aisha-ali.com
Location: Los Angeles
Wed, December 8, 2004 

During the span of his lifetime, by virtue of his special mix of charisma and determination, he managed to create an enduring network that affected the lives of other artists across 
the United States and overseas. His influence continues to surround us. Thank you Phaedra, for creating this elegant tribute and providing a place where those of us who loved and admired Bobby can share our memories of him. 

43) Nadia Ibrahim
e-mail krestos@buffalo.edu
Location: Buffalo, N. Y.
Tue, December 7, 2004 

Dear Phaedra,

What a warm feeling I got when I saw Ibrahim Farrah's web site. I cannot tell you the tears, joy, respect and admiration his picture/presence brought to my heart. I miss him terribly.

Bobby is such a legend, such an artist, such a teacher, such a performer, such a genius, and such a wonderful man. He was the only Middle Eastern Dance Master who introduced this art form to the world at the level we experience today.

When I used to go to his week-long workshops, I couldn't absorb enough. I would watch him, listen to him, learn from him and never get enough. Being Lebanese, I was so impressed with his ability to demand respect for the culture from his students. Every chance I get, when I teach or talk to people about my culture, I always bring up Bobby, our pioneer and professor. I feel he did a magnificent job teaching me and thousands of others. I feel so privileged to have been a part of his era.

To keep his memory alive, I refer back to his videos, his choreography and Arabesque. I am reminded by him to always maintain the dignity, integrity and essence of this dance. I hope everyone who had the fortune to experience OUR Bobby will also do the same.

Bobby, even though you are not here physically, you are in my heart and soul forever and ever and ever.

Love,
Nadia Ibrahim 



42) Nanae Tsuchiya
e-mail StudioNana@aol.com
Location: Japan
Mon, December 6, 2004

It was such a great experience to study with Bobby. He was my inspiration. He gave me wonderful choreography, and it became my foundation to create a work. As he dedicated himself to the dance, 
I also want to dedicate myself to the dance. Now he is a legend. I will not be able to reach the point that he achieved, but I want to follow him. I will never forget him. 

With respect,
Nanae 

41) Barbara Newman
e-mail bne5474867@aol.com
Location: San Francisco
Mon, December 6, 2004 

Bobby gave me the gift of dance so many years ago...I always visualize him when I doing Middle Eastern dance. I feel privileged to have learned from him - to have been in touch, however 
briefly, with his genius. And kudos to you Phyllis, for your loyalty to him and your inner strength...and for putting this beautiful website together.
Love,
Barbara 



40) Yasmine
e-mail Gibra1289@aol.com
Location: New York City
Sun, December 5, 2004 

This is wonderful, here you are Bobby, as superb as ever.
It was an evening in 1968 while in a Broadway building, that I heard something incredible....your finger cymbals... Had to follow that sound, opened a door. And there you were! Without missing a beat you came right over with that exuberant welcoming smile, It was a class! I was in awe...and I could join in. You were without question brilliant. Never have I gotten out of a coat so fast and 
on to a dance floor.....Thank you Bobby!
And thank you Phyllis!
I Look forward to visit this site again.
With Love,
g 


39) Leila Gamal
e-mail leilagamal@csinet.net
Location: South Bend, Indiana
Sat, December 4, 2004 

What a lovely gift to all who knew the great Ibrahim Farrah and what an important source of information to those who now have the opportunity to discover his work. Thank 
you Phyllis.


38) Zara
e-mail ZaraRaqs@yahoo.com
Location: Richmond, Virginia
Thu, December 2, 2004 

This is a first-class website, Phaedra, for a first-class teacher and performer. Bobby was a determined teacher that would not give up on his students. He had so much inner strength and 
passion, and it showed in every new endeavor. He raised the level of performing, teaching and researching of this dance form, and for that I will be forever grateful. Thanks for the memories, and thank you, Phaedra, for a wonderful job! Love you! Susan 


37) Nina Costanza/Amar
e-mail Ninaamar@aol.com
URL: http://amardance.com
Location: NYC
Tue, November 30, 2004 

An important website for a profound artist. Bobby IS a huge personality, a visionary artist and a force in the dance who has left an irreplaceable void. I live in NYC, so it is in NYC where his not physically-being-here-in- the-moment is so painful an untimely loss and so obviously needed! How much we continue to need his focus, his perspectives, his opinions, his genious, and his generosity... Oh BUT! His immense contributions beyond city and national borders are a legacy that lives from which all dancers can eternally benefit. Thank you Phaedra for the site. 


36) Dalia Carella
e-mail daliac@cloud9.net
URL: http://www.daliacarella.com
Location: New York City
Tue, November 30, 2004 

Dear Phyllis,

Just wanted to congratulate you on the beautiful site of Bobby...it brought back such wonderful memories that I will hold in my heart forever. I have always revered Bobby's brilliance and creativity and do the same for the Company as well. I am thrilled about 
this.

Love,
Dalia 


35) Jajouka
e-mail jaja100@rcn.com
Location: New York, NY
Mon, November 29, 2004 

Bobby is a "one and only". He had a gift for bringing out the best in us, if we were willing to sweat. For those who knew him this site stirs so many memories and emotions. For those who didn't it is an introduction to an extraordinary artist who changed dance history. A zaghareet to Phaedra!
Much love,
"Ja" 


34) Amaya
e-mail maria@amaya.com
URL: http://www.maria.amaya.com
Location: New Mexico
Sun, November 28, 2004 

I have a video of Bobby dancing first with me and then solo with live music at the L.A. Conference a few months before he passed onto the Dancing Stage Above. He wasn't feeling well that evening, but the music overtook his body. He brought the house down during the drum solo. Quite fantastic! He was one-of-a-kind! 


33) Marisol
e-mail tango2020@bellsouth.net
Location: Florida
Sun, November 28, 2004 

Great Website! :-) 


32) Tina O'Neill
e-mail anotherlife@cox.net
URL: http://dancewithtina.com
Sun, November 28, 2004 

 I loved the site!! Great job Phaedra! I loved Bobby so much!!
Love and Kisses
Tina


31) Yvonne LeBlanc
e-mail yleblanc@thehill.org
Location: Pottstown, PA
Sun, November 28, 2004 

A very impressive website done with great artistry. 




30) Ray Rashid
e-mail RRashidmusic@aol.com
URL: http://www.rashid.com
Location: Brooklyn, N. Y.
Sun, November 28, 2004 

Dear Phyllis,

My best to you on this wonderful website; it makes me proud to have known Bobby, and brings back so many memories of him. God bless you always.

Love,
Ray 



29) Farasha (Marisa)
e-mail farashadance@hotmail.com
URL: http://www.farasha.com
Location: Jackson, NJ
Sun, November 28, 2004 

Working on the video, "A Journey," with Bobby was a memorable experience. I got to see the artistry of his dances and dancers close-up, and it inspired my own growth as a dancer. I was so glad that his beautiful choreographies have been preserved on videotape, and continue to be performed by others. 



28) Zeyna
e-mail Zeynajk@aol.com
Location: St.Petersburg,Fl.
Tue, November 23, 2004 21:55 

 Phaedra my dear old friend, you have always known me as 
"Gypsy" and so did Bobby. Although I never took classes from either of you, working together in Puerto Rico was MY SCHOOL and forever in my best memories, we were and still are family. I remember the last time I saw him, he was doing a work shop in St.Paul, Minnesota with Ozel, I popped in unexpected and when he spotted me his jaw dropped and flew off the stage with a big hug hollering GYPSY!!!! It so warmed my heart, he was such a big hearted love. Phaedra this site for him would make him so proud but knowing him, he would have known that you would do it, that's why he loved and trusted you more then any one else on earth. You will be together again, you two were the BEST, God Bless both of you. 



27) Marta Zorina
Location: New York City
Tue, November 23, 2004 

Where are you? Somewhere in the unseen clouds?
You made around us a beautiful rose garden.
I still hear your cymbals; are you calling me?
Yes, when I come to the rose garden, we will dance again. 



26) Ayana (Anne Caruthers)
e-mail ayana@darealm.net
URL: http://www.salimevents.com
Location: Houston, TX
Tue, November 23, 2004 

 I'll never forget how terrified I was after hearing all of the "Bobby Stories", to walk into my first workshop in Houston... one that he just happened to be teaching. I didn't know how strongly that weekend would affect me, or how many times I'd return to learn more from him.

I feel very fortunate to have had some time with him, even though limited. His love for and knowledge of the dance made a strong impact on me, and continues to this day. Thank you for sharing more with us through this wonderful site! 



25) Tera aka Ta-rah
e-mail MoonStrmy@aol.com
Location: Arkansas
Tue, November 23, 2004

 I miss Ibrahim. He was the most beautiful dancer. The Master. He will be greatly missed by all. His teachings are still with me. He still lives in my spirit. Thank you Bobby for all you've done for 
me -Ta-rah 



24) Julie Fallin
e-mail BlyDancr@aol.com
Location: Houston, TX
Mon, November 22, 2004 

 Bobby was the most incredible dancer/teacher I've ever encountered. I took his seminars every time he came to town, traveled to New Orleans for my first out of town seminar from him, and managed one of his weeklong seminars. That was such an incredible experience for me that nothing can ever compare.

My husband still says that when he performed onstage once in black sweat pants and a black t-shirt that he put all the girls to shame, without a fancy costume, but dancing better than anyone else who had been onstage before him.

He is truly missed in the dance community. 


23) Fadua Chuffi
e-mail faduachuffi@hotmail.com
URL: http://fadua.pro.br
Location: Brasil
Mon, November 22, 2004 

 It is a great honor for the Oriental Dance world to have Bobby´s homepage.
This is a great guide for the new generation and a treasure for the people that were in contact with him and his art. Bobby will always be my mentor, and I always have his instructions, passion and love for the dance in my mind and in my heart.  Ibrahim Farrah was and is unique.
Salute to all oriental dance world 


22) Stan Rashid
e-mail StanRashid@aol.com
Mon, November 22, 2004  

 Bobby Farrah was a pioneer who elevated the Oriental Dance to a true art form. He was the bridge that brought such legendary dance icons as Nadia Gamal and Mahmoud Reda to the attention of the American dance scene. He has influenced so many dancers throughout the Americas, Europe and the Middle East. His publication, ARABESQUE is a priceless treasure of dance theory and history. We miss you and love you, Bobby! 


21) Neva Shultz -- Zoheret
e-mail nevacat@earthlink.net
Location: Newport News, VA
Sun, November 21, 2004 

 Bobby's voice and teaching is forever imprinted in my heart, mind, and body. His passion for his craft, captured in these images, continues to inspire his children of the dance. His attention to every level of detail, shading, and nuance in his technique, choregraphy, costuming, and performance 
revealed his consummate artistry. He demanded no less from his students. I so miss his outrageous "self"! Thank you, Phyllis, for this work of your heart. 


20) Sharjah
e-mail dcharleen@nc.rr.com
Location: Raleigh, NC
Sun, November 21, 2004

To hear Bobby's voice again is such wonderful gift. Reading all your tributes brings back many memories. I think of you all so often. Thank you, Phaedra, for your dedication and for this tribute.

I feel so honored that I shared so many years with Bobby. He still teaches me through all the videos I made at workshops, and he will forever will be a part of my life and my greatest inspiration in the dance.

I still hear him asking, "Don't you just love me?" 



19) Scheherezade
e-mail sherzade@earthlink.net
URL: http://scheherezadeimports.com
Location: Virginia
Sun, November 21, 2004 

While living in Buffalo, NY in the mid 1970's, I attended my very first Middle Eastern dance seminar. Bobby taught and the show featured the Near East Dance Company in full concert. It was a wonderful experience. Years later,Bobby inspired the Women of Selket Dance Company in Richmond, VA with his Mountain Bedouin choreography, which became part of our company's repertoire.
I will always remember the passion and commitment he had to dance and all that he shared. I feel fortunate to have known him and am grateful to Phaedra for her dedication in developing this website.




18) Suhaila Salimpour
e-mail suhaila@suhaila.com
URL: http://www.suhaila.com
Location: Berkeley, California
Sun, November 21, 2004 

Nothing can compare to being raised (in the dance) by both my mother (Jamila Salimpour) and Bobby. I was just a young girl and being in his class and having him use me to demonstrate to the class at the age of 9 was such a moment in my life. My mother and Bobby would spend hours talking about the dance as I played with my Barbies in his apartment in NY. He would sponsor my mother, my mother would sponsor him back and forth between East and West Coast. I also am forever indebted to Bobby for giving me my first experience to Nadia Gamal.... a woman whom changed 
my view on this dance forever. And now.... I make sure all my students know and understand his place in dance history. Bobby and my mother were the mother and father of belly dance in American. I am so happy I now have this site to send my students to . Thank you Phaedra. Your love and dedication to Bobby is the true root and love of what this art form requires. 





17) Millie Blonder (Zuhela Yamir)
e-mail zuhela@aol.com
URL: http://www.zuhela.com
Location: Ocala, Florida
Sun, November 21, 2004 

 What mentor can equal Bobby? Simply, none. Bobby's mastery of Dance and 
friendship for seventeen years is an omnipresent motivation.

His passion for choreography and expression of dance set standards of excellence.

Teaching was his instrument of continuance. I speak of him and make my students aware of him, thereby allowing me to "Pass On" his 
love for Oriental Dance.

Truly, I miss him and will never forget him. :-)

With Love and Respect,

Millie Blonder (Zuhela Yamir) 



16) Ghanima Gaditana
e-mail ghanima1@GhanimaG.com
URL: http://www.ghanimag.com
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Sun, November 21, 2004

Thanks to Bobby for all he did for us over the years. 
It was a privilege to study with him, on the rare occasions when he would visit California. 



15) Princesse Meroe ( Cassandra )
e-mail askprofmeroe@yahoo.com
Location: NYC
Sun, November 21, 2004 

This site is much appreciated. I also appreciated that Bobby agreed to write a letter of recommendation for Nakha-Carla Lopez when I was able to get her a possible grant from NEA.
Good people support Good people.
Regards,
Meroe ( Cassandra Wimbs) 



14) Diana Shahein
e-mail dianashahein@aol.com
URL: http://www.beledidancetheatre.org
Location: Asheville, N.C.
Sat, November 20, 2004 

Bobby said to me,"too much passion is just as bad as not enough" and when I was exhausted during one of his week-longs and left the class, he came after me and made go back and watch saying " the eye can absorb so much". So much wisdom, inspiration, and giving. Bobby changed the course of my life, I will be forever grateful. Thank you Phyllis for this tribute. 



13) Levanah (Elizabeth Levy)
e-mail Levanah99@aol.com
URL: http://hometown.aol.com/ealrev/index.htm
Location: NYC
Sat, November 20, 2004  

 I regret that I never had the chance to study with Ibrahim Farrah, as he 
was before my dance time. However, I am grateful for having the good fortune of being able to study with his protegees, including his partner Phaedra. It is so obvious that Bobby has turned out such great dancers. 



12) Morgiana Celeste Varricchio
e-mail nypaco@att.net
URL: http://www.NYPerformingArtistCo.com
Location: Glen Ridge, NJ 07028
Sat, November 20, 2004 

 The "today" of Middle Eastern dance in this country would not have been possible without the "yesterday" created by the artistry, the showmanship, the philosophy, and the genius of Ibrahim Farrah. Thank you, Phaedra, for this website -- an inspiration to us all for the boundless possibility which exists in the tomorrows ahead. 



11) Cynthia Turnage (SHAHIRA)
e-mail cyndlu@bellsouth.net
Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
Fri, November 19, 2004  

For 25 years I enjoyed the magic of dancing and studying with Bobby Farrah. I will always try to share his genius with the dancers who missed the opportunity of experiencing his artistic brilliance. All his dancers were different and special but his beautiful method was always unmistakable. There was his 
genius - he could bring out a dancers soul - the soul of the artist. Always loved and always so missed. 



10) Dee Birnbaum (Zeina)
e-mail birnbaum@rhodes.edu
Location: Memphis, TN
Fri, November 19, 2004

 Bobby, Ya Habibi, to see your pictures again!!! I'm still learning from you, you'll forever be part of my life and my students' lives, though most of them have never met you. Just last night I taught the 
second last session of one of your choreographies and the students were begging me to teach it again. The new generations love your work as much as we did. Phyllis, Thanks for this beautiful site and for sharing him with us. 



9) Roberta
Location: New York City
Fri, November 19, 2004 

I feel fortunate that I had the opportunity to study with him. Bobby will 
forever be in my thoughts. 


8) cindy lamm
e-mail sadiia@sadiia.com
URL: http://www.sadiia.com
Location: Memphis,TN
Fri, November 19, 2004 

 Thank You so much for this.. this new generation of dancers need to know/recognize this pioneer of Middle Eastern Dance .. so very few of us got to experience his creative genius..
as we try to impart this beautiful gift that he gave to our dancers..
Much Love Cindy 


7) Hannah Nour
e-mail Hannah@HannahNour.com
URL: http://www.HannahNour.com
Location: New York, NY
Fri, November 19, 2004 

 I never had to opportunity to study with Bobby as he passed away just as I was starting my studies in Middle Eastern Dance but it is undeniable what influence he had on our art form. He presence is 
still so much alive within his students, who work so hard to continue his legacy. I feel like I experience a little bit of him through them, and for that I am eternally grateful. 


6) Katia Nordgren - Katia
e-mail katia@katiaboston.com
URL: http://www.katiaboston.com
Location: Massachusetts
Fri, November 19, 2004 

 Bobby defined and expanded the Art of Oriental dance, developed its performance technique, and pioneered its stage presentation in this country which has inspired stage productions of Middle Eastern dance all over the world. He was a master in movement and storytelling and changed the audience's focus of the dance from one of sexuality to one of senuality, vitality and beauty. For 23 years, Ibrahim Farrah was my teacher, my mentor and my friend. He is part of everything I do in dance. His genius will never be forgotten. 


5) Melanie LaJoie - A MAGI
e-mail amagidance@yahoo.com
URL: http://www.aleena.com/magi
Location: Orlando, Florida
Fri, November 19, 2004 

I am so moved to see that Bobby has been immortalized in this website. It was a privilege for me to study with Bobby. His Spirit remains in my dance! This website gives him the honor he deserves as a true Master of Danse Orientale. 



4) Dolores Matzen-Riskallah Riyad
e-mail dmatzen@charter.net
Location: Southbury, CT
Fri, November 19, 2004

 I was privileged to have studied with Ibrahim (Bobby) Farrah for many, many years, and what I learned from him cannot be measured or counted. He was one of the greatest influences on my life, helping to shape my image of the dance, helping me to develop an aesthetic eye, inspiring me and challenging me to always go further. He stays in my heart and is a beacon lighting the path I take with this dance. 



3) Ruby Jazayre
e-mail rubyjaz@aol.com
URL: http://rubyjazayre.com
Location: South Bend, Indiana
Fri, November 19, 2004 

 Bobby Farrah was my mentor, he was my friend. His creative energy still flows through my veins, the power of his teachings forever strong. I think of him daily as I teach his methodology. His impact was global, and I am forever grateful to have had the many opportunities to travel and to study with him. And oh, how I miss him! 


2) Latifa
e-mail latifa@bintbeled.com
URL: http://www.bintbeled.com
Location: Severna Park, MD
Thu, November 18, 2004 

 We will never see his likes again. Ibrahim "Bobby" Farrah was a genius who showed many dancers how to express the beauty and power of Middle Eastern music through dance. He was a very generous mentor and a caring friend. I am so grateful to have had the chance to learn from him and share his friendship, even if the time we had with him was all too short. 


1) Jasmin Jahal
e-mail jasmin@jasminjahal.com
URL: http://www.JasminJahal.com
Location: Chicago, IL
Thu, November 18, 2004 

 Bobby will forever be oriental dance art personified. He was the best mentor, an inspirational performer, an unparalleled choreographer, a demanding instructor, and a sensitive visionary. He has marked the history of oriental dance across the globe. I treasure my experiences with and advice from this great artist. I miss you Bobby!


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