WARMINSTER, PA – Residents and staff at Ann’s Choice performed a Middle Eastern dance recital last week after months of studying the culture, food, music, and dance of several countries. The night was the culmination of a resident dance group that began in March. Led by Resident Life Director Diane Lasichak, the 22 residents who participated in the class studied the culture, dance movements, and interpretations of Middle Eastern dance forms in Greece, Lebanon, Turkey, Egypt, and Morocco.

As the residents began to study the dance and the explanation of movement, they were more intrigued by the culture and wanted to see it firsthand. In late July, Lasichak along with some staff and the group of residents went to Casablanca, an authentic family-run Moroccan restaurant in Warrington, Pa., where they observed male and female Middle Eastern dancers, listened to the music, and enjoyed a traditional Moroccan meal together. The group was invigorated by Casablanca’s hospitality, which enhanced their experience and was carried over into their preparation for the recital. 

During each class, Lasichak would teach the group about the country, the influences in the movement, the music, and the food of the culture. Each person picked a Middle Eastern name that was reflective of their personality and meaningful to them.