Why the feeling is vital—and how to find it
People love belly dance all over the world. Yet many dancers see only the shiny costumes and sensual movement. They often dismiss—or never discover—the dance’s ethnic roots, its core values. There is much more to the dance than steps and bling!
Traditionally, the feeling is more important than the steps. Intuitive response, close contact with the audience, and physical enjoyment of the music are prized. A dance is never done the same way twice—each performance is a unique expression of the artist’s feeling in the moment.
In contrast, dancers today learn choreography and stylized movement. They often perform a dance exactly the same every time. Many do not compose their own dances, only learning from others. Many dancers never even learn how—or are afraid—to improvise.
Dancers like choreography because it is familiar. It frees them from responsibility and creates a sense of security. Everything can be prepared in advance. There is no onstage decision-making or risk.
But with great risk comes a miraculous reward—the soul of the dance.
Belly dance is magical. It bestows limitless artistic, physical, and spiritual gifts. How do we find these gifts? Embrace and celebrate the soul of the dance:
- Improvise.
- Breathe in time with the music
- Revel in the movement
- Take risks on stage.
- Love the audience and love yourself.
- Embody the music. Bask in it.
- Practice these things.
- Bring them into your heart.
In this way, we find our selves, our dance, and our joy.
Two more weeks on the Kickstarter. The book is going to be beautiful. And the rewards are pretty good too. A dollar keeps you in the loop. Ten gets you the e-book—twenty five for a printed book. Check it out—you will be glad.
Love,
Alia
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