Balkan Sundays is going BIG this time — with a jam-packed double header you won't want to miss! This event has no cover charge and it’s all ages.
We’re thrilled to present the high-energy debut of Seyyah — plus an all-star brass jam that'll keep the dance floor buzzing all night long!
Seyyah (meaning “Wanderer”) brings the electrifying sounds of Tallava — a modern fusion of Balkan and Turkish Roma music with bumpin’ electronic beats made just for dancing. Think wild violin solos, funky guitar riffs, and unstoppable grooves. The band is led by the incredible duo Marika Dvorak (electric violin) and Jeff Giaquinto (electric guitar), both students of the legendary David Mamudov.
The Seyyah crew also includes:
Daniel Goldberg – saxophone
Jacque Patton – keyboard
Melissa Cruz – electronic drums
Sean Spangenberg – electric fretless bass
Sam Foster – darbuka
And that’s not all — the stage will be blessed by the amazing dancers Nicole Maria and Melike:
Nicole Maria is a multi-award-winning dancer based out of the San Francisco Bay Area. She has been studying and performing contemporary and traditional forms of Arabic dance for roughly 15 years. As one of the most in-demand professional belly dancers in the Bay Area, Nicole Maria has entertained at countless events in the region and around the world. She is known for being an engaging and charismatic entertainer, for elevating the level of the art form, and for her elegance and grace as a dancer.
Melike is a passionate dancer from Istanbul, specializing in Turkish Romani dance (9/8 rhythm) and belly dance. With a background in ballet and folk dance, her performances shine with expression, rhythm, and flexibility. Trained by masters in the traditional Romani style, she brings cultural authenticity and vibrant energy to every stage
We’re kicking off the night with a Balkan line dance lesson led by the amazing Janetta Jenny Redžić — perfect for first-timers and seasoned shakers alike.
After Seyyah’s epic set, the night rolls on with two jam sets featuring a killer lineup:
Gregory Masaki Jenkins – sax/clarinet
Camellia Boutros – trumpet
Jeff Giaquinto – sousaphone/electric bass
Marco Peris – tupan
And of course, as always, some surprise heavy-hitters are bound to jump in — so bring your instruments, bring your crew, and bring those dancing shoes.
It’s gonna be a night of unstoppable rhythm, wild solos, and community vibes. Let’s dance our cares away together!
