about bellydance
Many experts say “Raqs Sharki” (belly dancing or oriental dance) is the oldest form of dance, having roots in all ancient cultures from the orient to India to the mid-East. Probably the greatest misconception about belly dancing is that it is intended to entertain men. Throughout history, this ritualized expression has usually been performed for other women—generally during fertility rites or parties preparing a young woman for marriage. In most cases, the presence of men is not permitted.
Belly dancing is natural to a woman’s bone and muscle structure with movements emanating from the torso rather than in the legs and feet. The dance often focuses upon isolating different parts of the body, moving them independently in sensuous patterns, weaving together the entire feminine form. Belly dancing is generally performed barefoot, thought by many to emphasize the intimate physical connection between the dancer, her expression, and Mother Earth.
Belly dancing costumes are often colorful, flowing garments, accented with flowing scarves and veils. Finger cymbals (made of brass and known as zills) are common, dating back to 200 B. C. as well as exotic jewelry, including intricate belts made of coins that, in earlier days, comprised the family’s wealth so that it might be portable in the event the woman needed to move quickly or flee. Other interesting accessories used during the dance are canes, swords, snakes, large vessels, and even huge candelabras, complete with flaming candles.
In America, belly dancing enjoyed its first significant renown when the famous dancer Little Egypt performed at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. The French name ‘danse du ventre’ dance of the stomach was coined — and was translated into ‘belly dance’. Also the name bellydance could have been dervived from “baladi” a Eygptian term for folk dance. Americans found themselves fascinated by the exotic body rhythms and music, and eventually including them in many silent films made just a few years later. Costumes and dancing styles were given a distinctive Hollywood flare and, in turn influenced dancers in the Middle East, thus evolving the art form to a new level. For example, belly dancing with flowing veils hadn’t been documented before the 1900s but is now quite popular throughout the world.
Arabic dance is characterized by its intricate hip movements, though it incorporates many techniques, from many different parts of the Middle East; Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and Morocco to name a few. Each country has its own style. From these countries, different well known forms have evolved:
Egyptian Cabaret – is most associated with ‘belly dance’ and is a very controlled style often including ballet. Muscular control is emphasised, with the movements small and internalized. ‘Less is more’ seems to be the working philosophy.
Baladi – Meaning of the country or for the people; a folk dance, was developed in rural Egypt where the dancers wear full length robes often with their hair covered as well. The stick dance is based on the Tahtib, a form of self defence practised in Upper Egypt where the young men would prove their manhood using a Shouma, a long, heavy staff.
ATS (American Tribal) – ATS is a modern fusion dance style created by FatChanceBellyDance of California. Drawing its movements, costuming, and general inspiration from the Tribal cultures of the Middle East, Northern Africa/Maghreb, India and Spain, ATS is a fascinating combination of many different influences.