A bit about the evolution of the dance
Bellydancing has metamorphosed into many new forms incorporating elements of Flamenco, Salsa, Jazz Dance and New Age meditative music.
In America Tribal troupes such as Fat Chance Bellydance and Gypsy Caravan introduced a new look focused on eclectic layering of skirts and pantaloons, adorned with chunky ethnic jewellery and turbans. Faces were decorated with tribal markings each unique to the particular performance tribe. The dance is both improvised and choreographed with a "leader" signalling for the troupe to change steps in perfect unison. The music used is a heavily ethnic sound such as Nubian, Saidi or folk and combines Middle Eastern postures with Flemenco incorporating belly rolls and stomach flutters. The dancers often use finger cymbals and maintain a serious intense facial expression throughout the performance.
On the East Coast of America, a new tribal style called East Coast Contemporary has emerged. This has been famously championed by The Bellydance Superstars and Desert Roses. Very much a choreographed dance form, the dances can be performed by individuals or in troupes.
As the dance has evolved, a recently growing popularity for Gothic belly dance has emerged. Performed to music with a range of sound effects and "dark" tones, the dancers combine a love of gothic costume with the undulating belly rolls and slow flowing movements of the East Coast contemporary tribal style dance form.
Basically, belly dancing has something to offer many tastes. Whether your preference is for folk music inspired Saidi stick dancing, slow and seductive veil dances, traditional Middle Eastern or Turkish Cabaret or the modern Tribal fusion, belly dancing has something to offer everyone.
