Belly Dancing

Oriental Dance consists of many styles rooted in the histories and cultures of many countries in the Middle East.

Here are some styles you might consider:

Egyptian Cabaret - This is the style you will most likely see in hotels throughout Egypt. It evolved and grew apart from the traditional folk and country dances. The costumes are glamorous and consist of either a bra and belt set, or fitted Baladi dresses with mesh cut-outs. This is one pf the most popular styles of belly dancing taught around the world.

Traditional Egyptian Style - there isn't one traditional Egyptian style of belly dance. There are many styles that originated and are still danced in different rural areas of the country. They include styles such as Ghawazee, Fellahi and Saidi, which have more natural and earthy costumes with fewer adornments.

Turkish Cabaret - Similar to Egyptian Cabaret, but with distinct differences in the dance moves. Egyptian Cabaret dancers hold their bodies vertically, with their hips directly below their torso, while Turkish dancers hold their hips further forward. Also, Egyptian dancers do not perform floorwork, which is common in Turkish Cabaret.

American Tribal - This is a relatively new style of belly dance that has grown in popularity over the last two decades. It has an ethnic feel but it isn't authentic Middle Eastern. It mixes folk and tribal dances with other influences to create a freer and earthier dance style.

American Fusion - American Tribal has developed many offshoots including American Fusion, which takes the movements of belly dancing and mixes them with other dance styles such as Flamenco and Hip Hop.

You might also see classes being advertised under the titles "Oriental Dance" or "Raks Sharqi" both of which are more traditional terms for belly dancing.

Whatever appeals to you, look for an instructor offering classes in that style.

For a free copy of "Belly Dancing: Getting Started" and to learn more about all aspects of Belly Dancing visit Belly Dancing Secrets...