Raqs sharqi
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Raqs sharqi (
History
Raqs sharqi was developed by
Later dancers who were influenced by these artists are Soheir Zaki, Nagwa Fouad, Fifi Abdou, and Dalilah. All rose to fame between 1960 and 1980, and are still popular today. And later generations, such as Dina, some of these later dancers were the first to choreograph and perform dances using a full 'orchestra' and stage set-up, which had a huge influence upon what is considered the 'classical' style.
Though the basic movements of raqs sharqi are unchanged, the dance form continues to evolve. Nelly Mazloum and Mahmoud Reda are noted for incorporating elements of ballet, and their influence can be seen in modern Egyptian dancers who stand on relevé as they turn or travel in a circle or figure eight.
Costume
Since the 1950s, it has been illegal in Egypt for belly dancers to perform publicly with their midriff uncovered
Respectability in Egypt
Generally, Egyptians do not consider Raks Sharki to be a respectable profession, despite attempts by several groups to change the perception. Many Egyptians also continue to employ native Egyptian dancers for wedding receptions and other celebratory events. Strict moral laws prevent a lot of local Egyptian dancers from performing in public spaces so many dancers performing for
Belly dancers in Egypt have restrictions placed on their costume and movements. Most notably, no floor work is permitted and the dancer's midriff must be covered. However, many Egyptian nightclubs don't necessarily follow the government guidelines.
In 2009, a plan to establish a state institute to train belly dancers in Egypt came under heavy fire as it "seriously challenges the Egyptian society's traditions and glaringly violates the constitution", said Farid Esmail a member of the parliament, a thing that was widely viewed by many Egyptian celebrities and dancers as hate against Egyptian arts.[2]
References
- ISBN 0-226-31551-7.
- ^ Move to teach art in state institute triggers controversy Archived 8 August 2009 at the Wayback Machine
External links
- Media related to Raqs sharqi at Wikimedia Commons