AN unusual dance event inspired by the Arab Spring is taking place this weekend at Belconnen Arts Centre.

Cairo-born dancer/teacher and choreographer Suraya Hilal, founder of her company Hilal Dance, is the latest artist in residence at Belconnen Arts Centre, where she has developed a new cultural blend in her program “Alchemy,” set to the contemporary Arabic music of Le Trio Joubran.

In this  new work, she explores the subject of how we can change the whole with only one small element, a different motion, one important thought; one person who dares to make a difference. The idea came just before the Middle Eastern uprisings this year.

The event also features works by emerging choreographers, Canberra’s Rachael Hilton and Sydney’s Sarah Hamilton includes live percussion by Marianthe Loucataris from Wollongong.

Hilton’s work, “Origins,” is set to an Oud composition by the noted Egyptian/Australian composer Joseph Tawadros and accompanied by Indian tabla player Bobby Singh.

Hamilton’s work is inspired by the music of the Mizmar bands of Egypt. The dancers carve dynamic patterns through space, evoking the earth and fire of rural dances.

“Alchemy,”  is on October 15 at 8pm 15 and October 16 at 2pm. Bookings to www.belconnenartscentre.com.au or 6173 3300.