About Irene & Jizzelle
How Shimmy Shakedown began...
Shimmy Shakedown was founded by Irene Alba, Producer and Artistic Director, alongside her daughter Jizzelle, Co-Producer. It all started with Irene supporting Jizzelle's dance journey and wanting to support other professional dance artists from Los Angeles and around the world. Their vision was to create opportunities for dancers to be recognized for their passion and dedication to Raqs Sharqi—Oriental Dance.
Shimmy Shakedown’s first event was in Summer of 2012, which aimed to highlight the significance of Oriental Dance and celebrate its cultural beauty. The festival quickly grew, attracting dancers from across the U.S. and around the world. Irene and Jizzelle’s admiration for dancers and musicians, coupled with their commitment to lifelong learning, led to the addition of workshops and competition alongside the gala shows. This provided California dancers access to top-tier training from hard-working artists globally.
We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who supports Shimmy Shakedown and attends our events each year. Your support and love have made our festival possible and helped it grow bigger and better yearly.
For sponsorship, vending, or volunteering opportunities, please contact us at ShimmyShakedownTeam@gmail.com.
Visit www.JizzelleAlexis.com for classes with Jizzelle and booking information.
A huge thank you to our graphic designers and content creators, Marlene Solorio and Justine Barrino.
At Shimmy Shakedown, the journey begins with…
a spark of ART. Dancers from around the world gather together, united by their passion for LEARNING and the pursuit of KNOWLEDGE. With each workshop, they gain CONFIDENCE, embracing the TRAINING that refines their skills.
As the music plays, the magic of DANCING takes over, empowering everyone with a sense of STRENGTH. The festival becomes a celebration of PASSION and LOVE, filling the air with HAPPINESS and a profound FEELING of belonging… a community.
Through the shared experience, participants find INSPIRATION, leaving Shimmy Shakedown with newfound EMPOWERMENT and a deep connection to the beautiful art of Raqs Sharqi.
“YOU MAY SAY I’M A DREAMER, BUT I’M NOT THE ONLY ONE. I HOPE SOMEDAY YOU’LL JOIN US, AND THE WORLD WILL BE AS ONE.”
Photo: Jizzelle & Irene- daughter and mother team <3