Farah Siraj

Arts Midwest is bringing the Arabian flamenco jazz of Farah Siraj to Minot as part of Arts Midwest World Fest.

During a weeklong residency in Minot, Farah Siraj will offer workshops in local schools and other community locations, and will perform live in concert at Aleshire Theater in Harnett Hall on the Minot State University campus on Saturday, April 26, at 7 p.m. The concert is free and open to

the public.

Named Jordan’s Musical Ambassadress, Farah Siraj balances a career that spans the United States, Europe and the Middle East, having performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including the United Nations, Nobel Prize Hall, World Economic Forum and Lincoln Center. As a humanitarian, Siraj focuses on raising awareness about

the consequences of war and violence, and advocates for women’s rights, refugee rights and animal rights, according to information from Minot Area Council of the Arts (MACA).

“I hope that my music illustrates how diverse elements can come together to create something harmonious and unique. At a time where there is so much hate, discrimination and otherization, as an artist I counter that with music, love and light,” Siraj said in a news release.

Siraj’s visit to Minot is made possible by a partnership between Arts Midwest, the National Endowment for the Arts, North Dakota Council of the Arts and MACA. The partnership most recently brought A Moving Sound and LADAMA to do a week-long residencies in Minot over the last year.

“I am beyond excited for Farah Siraj’s upcoming World Fest residency. Her residency, music, passion and presence will be an incredible gift to our community,” MACA Co-Executive director Tonia Vitko said in a news release.

“As we enter into our final World Fest residency in Minot, we’re excited for a strong finish of our work together and to build upon the experiences of all previous residencies,” added Katie Ortman, program manager at Arts Midwest. “World Fest has been an exciting opportunity to celebrate the work and connection between our community partners and of these talented musicians.”