What is Tribal Style Belly Dance?

Tribal style belly dance can be considered a relatively new, modern form of American belly dance which consists of several cross cultural influences of the Middle East/North Africa/areas of Mediterranean and even India. Tribal style recreates that of “authentic”, traditional and folkloric belly dance moves and costumes such as Indian, Spanish Flamenco, Arabic, Turkish and North African genres. Since this form emerged in the 70's, it is becoming increasingly popular. It is all inclusive in that represents the welcoming women of all ages, shapes and sizes therefore emphasizing the importance of women being comfortable “in their own skin”. It offers a culturally enriching “earthy” experience, healthy and fun way to exercise.

What distinguishes Tribal style from Cabaret?

Cabaret is more frequently a solo performance (commonly performed in Greek restaurants, for example). A single dancer dances to an audience which is paying, one way or another, for the privilege. The performer/audience dynamic is very clear, even when you've got an appreciative middle-eastern audience that either participates in some way by either singing along, clapping and sometimes even hopping on stage.

Tribal Style is inherently a troupe or tribe. Similar to folkloric dance throughout the world, it involves groups of people, sometimes in singles and pairs surrounded by others. A tribe or troupe dance together. The basic vocabulary of movement is shared among the dancers. Tribal Style aspects distinctly differ from both solo cabaret and ensemble cabaret in that it's the *group energy*, women dancing together in unison for the camaraderie of it. The dance is commonly improvised with commonly shared cues as a means of communication within the troupe. Whether the dance is improvised or choreographed, the dancers share that common vocabulary of movement and hold the line of melody together in unison.

 

"The artform of belly dance is ancient, feminine and earthy. Tribal style belly dance, which consists of more "folkloric" styles of belly dance, allows me to connect with myself, my troupe sisters and the audience. We do not merely dance for the sake of "sex appeal" or to dance for the entertainment of men - contrary to very common misconceptions to the outswide world. We dance together as a group of women to respect and honor our bodies, to celebrate the strength of our bodies, to get positive experiences through fun exercise, and more importantly to enjoy movement through dance, music and life." - Effie