Belly dance is an exciting and dynamic dance style performed by many people around the world. Although it is widely recognized for articulate and precise hip movements, belly dance is an umbrella term for a way of movement most commonly associated with a dance style originating from the Middle East. The common name comes from the French term “danse du ventre” which sprung into use in the Victorian era. Then it was used for the Arabic Ouled Nail dancers of Algeria, who performed a style making heavy use of the abdominal area. Today’s belly dance genre encompasses many different styles and varies greatly in aesthetic depending on where it comes from.
In most styles of belly dance, movements can be categorised into 3 major groups. Percussive stacatto movements are often made by the hips and punctuate music and rhythm. Fluid movements reflect and interpret melodies, following continuous and sinuous motions through the body. Shimmies, vibrations and shivers are used to create depth and richness of movement and are often layered on top of other movements. These certainly take some practice and dedication to perfect.
In the Middle East the development of belly dance has not been without resistance. The skills and talents involved in the dance have sometimes been undervalued and the dancers are not always respected. This is much due to the fact that dancers display their bodies in public, which by some is considered haram, sinful and forbidden by Allah. In Egypt the tradition of belly dance was often seen as an art of seduction which was used to keep the King and his guests entertained. After the era of kings, belly dance was used similarly for the high classes in society before becoming what it is today.
Belly dance has a great social significance with a historical role in celebrations, gatherings and as entertainment. Alongside this belly dance has grown as an artistic performance with the development of costume to complement the dancers and accentuate movement. Traditional performances also include musicians, actors and poets.
