Arabic Belly Dance – List of Topics
This website provides historical, cultural and personal performance information regarding the Raqs Sharqi, or Arabic Belly dance, as it is known in the English speaking Western world.
Part 1: Current and topical information of general interest
From our colleague Adiba
Belly Dance for Health
Great for exercise and enjoyment
Belly Dance Props
For added interest and effect
Belly Dance Costumes
Costume style from traditional to modern
Assembling a Personal Belly Dance Costume
For practice, performance, or instruction
Choosing Belly Dance Music
Choose the music style to match the dance style
Can Anyone Learn to Belly Dance?
Yes, women of all ages and body types enjoy dancing!
Part 2: Introducing mainly cultural and historical items
The Oriental Dances, Raqs baladi and Raqs sharqi
Briefly describes the two main forms of the dance with some references to past observers and their comments.
Origins and History of the Arabic-Oriental Dance
From the distant past until today, the dance lives on.
More Origins of the Arabic – Oriental Dance
The dance throughout history and some viewers reactions.
Gypsy Dancers and the Belly Dance
The historic roles of the Ghawazee and Awalim dancers
The Dance of Salome and John the Baptist
What is the story and was this an Oriental Dance?
Oriental Dance, Women entertaining women
In contrast to popular notions of night club entertainment, the belly dance is a family activity too.
Male Belly Dance
Some historical and modern references.
