Belly Dancing Or Not

Belly dancing for many women is fun, fun, and more fun. The American female thoroughly enjoys the dance movements and the exotic music of the Middle East. But when she mentions that she will be taking classes, often times it is not well received by family and friends.

Why?

Malicious stories, false stereotypes, and misinformation about this dance discourages potential students. Being a belly dancer is America does not automatically mean being a stripper or a prostitute. (Unfortunately, these viewpoints do exist in Middle Eastern countries.) American women enjoy dancing and this art form offers enjoyable freestyle physical movements to music.

The challenge of accomplishing muscle control and certain athletic maneuvers is an attractive feature. Belly dancing is not for everyone as it is considered a difficult and complex dance. For this reason, the faint of heart do not pursue it or take part in it.

Dance enthusiasts who do love the challenges of this art form and have the commitment, discipline, and patience to accomplish and succeed in learning this ancient dance become addicted to its rewards. Thousands of women worldwide practice this dance for either personal satisfaction or for a professional career.

Why does a man climb a mountain? Why do women want to belly dance? Because they are attracted to it, are compelled to pursue it, and enjoy doing it.

The interests by American women awakened the dance history of the Middle East. In the earlier years these women copied the dances of the Middle East and as they learned the reasons for this dance they started to develop their own techniques in both cabaret and tribal styles.

During the last fifteen years women who have had a tribal interest have designed their idea of folkloric dancing, now known as ATS or American Tribal Style. Folkloric refers to how a culture expresses itself. Cabaret and oriental refer to self-expression originating from the individual.

Through the years there is more influence in the Middle East from the American style than the reverse. Much of the costuming in the Middle East has also originated from the western world. The same is happening as this dance moves through other countries.

It is important to note that this dance is designed by women, for women, and by women. This art form will change its many styles as women advance their creativity and imagination. There is no comparison between the ancient originals and today's styles.

Most students learn cabaret first, then tribal. Attending performances help students to identify the different styles and as they advance they are welcome to learn how to do others.