Danse Orientale... Common name: Bellydance

"Bellydance" is an ancient art form that has been traced back for thousands of years. Timelines have the dance emerging from the early Mother-Goddess religions of the Middle Eastern region and from the outcast temple dancers (Dev Dassi and Nautch) of India, and across to Morocco's Berber tribes. This Oriental dance does not just involve the "belly" but its distinctive in its isolations and control of the upper and lower body in time to challenging musical rhythms.

The Danse Du Ventre, French for the "dance of the stomach" is one of celebration, and of culture. It is associated with child birthing rituals and is said to be good luck at weddings to insure fertility. Although this dance is sensual, it is not intended to be seductive or erotic. It requires the dancer to have an ability to interpret the music, stamina, and to keep the attention of the audience.

The dance is not just one to be watched by an audience but is also one to inspire audience participation. Clapping, singing, drumming, and even joining the dancer are all typical and welcomed participation.

It is also customary to tip the dancer for her skill by tossing money towards her or gently tucking money into her belt. A basket is sometimes offered  at the end of the performance for such generosities. In most Arab/Mediterranean countries  a loud shrill cry is heard from onlookers called a "zaghareet" to show approval.

ANATOMY OF A CABARET SHOW

Each dancer presents her own magic and mystery in her performance, but there are some basic aspects to an exciting show.

The ENTRANCE... is the dancer's way of introducing herself to you and setting the ambiance of the dance. From slow and hypnotic to fast, upbeat; the entrance is the dancers' hello.

The TAQSIM... slow movements that indicate the dancers level of flexibility and grace usually done to traditional string instruments.

The DRUM SOLO... where the dance really showcases the dancer's ability to isolate and move individual parts of the body to only the dictation of the traditional drum. (Doumbek, Tabla)

The VEIL... is a lovely addition to the dancer's repertoire and becomes an extension of the music and movements itself. It is alluring and graceful  as well as mysterious.

The SWORD... is a talent that is alot more complicated than it seems. The dancer carefully balances it upon her head while executing body isolations and terse movements to show the depth of control of the dance.

When in a restaurant setting, it is customary to tuck a folded bill into the hip belt or upper bra strap of the dancer. Money in any increment is welcomed. You may also throw money at the dancer while she is dancing. This is very popular in the Arabic, Indian, and Greek communities. A dancer might pass a basket around or tambourine to collect tips at the end of her performance. Sometimes a basket is placed in the head and balanced for the sake of tipping. Tribal or groups of dancers tend to pass a basket or tambourine around after the performance so as not interrupt the show.

MALE DANCERS