Workshops - Summer 2005

Middle Eastern Dance (Raqs Sharqi)

Introduction to Tribal
with Marta
Saturday, August 27, 2005, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m., Friendship Heights, $30
Level: Beginning I Belly Dance and above
For adults 18 and over.
To register, call (202) 362-3042.

Students will explore the dynamic, moving and challenging dance styles put forth by most recognized forces in Tribal Style belly dance in the country. This workshop will emphasize the development of strong technique while introducing aspects of musical expression, interpretation, improvisation and choreography, all the elements that make both American Tribal Style (ATS) and Tribal Fusion so unique and powerful. Students will also learn and discuss the history and development of Tribal Belly Dance, see video clips and receive handouts.

What is Tribal Style Belly Dance?
Bellydance has many different names and many different styles from various regions. Here in the United States, the most popular style performed is the traditional Egyptian cabaret style known as Raks al Sharki or Oriental Dance. However, a new style has emerged, especially on the west coast, American Tribal Style Bellydance. It is an ethnic fusion style, influenced by Middle Eastern dance but inspired by American artistic sensibilities. It has nothing to do with representing a particular tribe, but it combines movement vocabularies and regional costuming to form one cohesive presentation. The "American" part of the label acknowledges that the dancers are continents away from the culture that created the dance form and are taking artistic license with it. Yet they still must acknowledge, respect and honor the roots. The look of American Tribal Style seems authentic because of its resemblance to various gypsy tribes throughout North Africa, the Middle East, and India. (Excerpt from A History of American Tribal Style Bellydance by Rina Orellana Rall, principal dancer FCBD, 1988-1998, http://www.fcbd.com/html/history_rr.html.)