Respecting Middle Eastern Dance Culture continued
Following my previous post about respecting other cultures and the traditions of Oriental Dance, I’ve been asked to elaborate further.
Many of you believe this is important but want to know “how” you are to do this if you don’t know the movements of every style of dance.
I suppose the best way is to only dance in the style you know well and have learned through experience. For example, my instructor teaches a modern Egyptian style of dance. She explains the moves that are important and shouldn’t be deviated from, but also lets us know where personal interpretation is valid.
If you are dancing in an American Tribal style, don’t call it something else. For example, just because you have watched the video of the Guedra style of dance doesn’t qualify you to dance in a similar manner and call it Guedra. You are likely to offend someone.
This is especially true of the older, more traditional styles of Belly Dance. Unless you have danced with, or taken classes with, someone who has a good grasp of that dance’s traditions and you understand the meanings of the moves, don’t dance your own version and call it original.
Even dancers within areas that have different indigenous dances are not necessarily qualified to perform them all. You couldn’t expect every Egyptian Cabaret Dancer to also be able to dance Saidi, Baladi and Ghawazee.
If you discover a move you like in a different style and would like to incorporate it into your dance then you should call it “fusion”
For example, if you have ever seen the Bellydance Superstars perform, they dance in many different styles often within the same routine, and include non-Oriental Dance styles such as Flamenco, Polynesian and Hip-Hop. While their shows come under the banner of Belly Dance they are quick to point out in their brochures and when you talk to them that this is definitely a fusion of styles.
This would be true of any other style of dance. You wouldn’t attempt to perform a ballet recital if you had never studied ballet and had simply watched a video on the subject. You would offend ballet fans the world over! But you might perform a dance recital and incorporate ballet arm movements – you just wouldn’t call it ballet.
I hope this clarifies a few things and explains my thoughts on the subject a bit better.
I’d love you to share you own feelings on the subject below…
2 comments
I had no idea that there were so many forms of belly dance. Plse excuse me if I make errors. My interest in this form of dance is purely as a method of enjoyment and keeping fit – I can’t forsee myself performing in public – I’m in my 40’s! Which form of Middle Eastern Dance would you recommend for a beginner?
Never say never – I know a lot of women who dance in public who are much older than you!
Don’t panic about the moves – if you are learning belly dancing in any of its forms you are doing ok and are not likely to upset anyone.
Middle Eastern dance classes tend to be quite generic in name, so some will just call themselves Belly Dance while you might also see Oriental Dance, Middle Eastern Dance and Raqs Sharqi.
Have fun!
Lisa
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