MIDDLE EASTERN DANCE

What is it?

Belly Dance is an ethnic style of dance that originates in the Middle East. There are many different forms of Belly Dance, depending on the country of origin such as Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, etc., in addition to Tribal Fusion which combines elements from various cultural dance styles. While it is more commonly studied and performed by women, men also perform Belly Dance as it is a part of their cultural heritage and, in the past, women were forbidden to perform publicly, thus köçeks were employed to entertain. Belly Dance movements can be either percussive, fluid, or vibrate (aka shimmies) and have inspired many founders of Modern dance including Ruth St. Dennis and Isadora Duncan.
"In addition to these torso movements, dancers in many styles will use level changes, travelling steps, turns and spins. The arms are used to frame and accentuate movements of the hips, for dramatic gestures, and to create beautiful lines and shapes with the body, particularly in the more balletic, Westernised styles. Other movements may be used as occasional accents, such as low kicks and arabesques, backbends, and head tosses." - Wikipedia

Styles Taught

Instructional classes taught by Victoria Cryderman focus on founding movements and steps found in all cultural styles of oriental (aka cabaret) belly dance. Classes focus on technique and Middle Eastern style basic movements, achieved through muscle toning, emphasis on posture and drills. Movements include turns, footwork, attention to balance and coordination, layered moves and shimmies. To enhance the fun and camaraderie of the class, props such as veils and canes are used to develop grace and coordination, and fun activities are involved in class lessons to further enhance this unique learning experience. 

KEY HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
  • Learning basic movement of the body
  • Drilling movements in combination exercises
  • Strengthening and toning muscles
  • Developing positive self-esteem
  • Re-discovering our bodies
  • Fun Games and Creative Thinking Opportunities
  • Incorporation of Props
  • Combining learned movements into choreography 
  • Routine sessions of slow stretching

In addition to learning the technique of dance, students also have the opportunity to learn about the history of this ancient dance form and discover some of the most notable practitioners of Middle Eastern dance. Choreographed routines taught are of  Egyptian, Turkish, and Lebanese dance forms.
Example of Egyptian Oriental.
​Choreography by Egyptian Choreographer and Dancer, Mahmoud Reda

Benefits 
Belly Dancing is generally a low-impact dance form and weight bearing exercise, so it is great for participants of all ages and fitness levels. It can aid in gently decompressing the spine, decreasing menstrual pains, prepare women for childbirth, and prevent injury as we age through muscle strengthening and conditioning. Focus is also given to balance, coordination, and flexibility which improve through continual practice. Beyond the physical benefits, Belly Dancing also improves self-esteem, connect us with our bodies on a more deeper, internal level, and creates a social group of supporting peers who become more than just classmates - they become a sisterhood or family.
Turkish Romany taught by Turkish Choreographer
and Dancer,Ozgen Ozgec

EAST INDIAN/BOLLYWOOD

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What is it?​

"Dance in India comprises numerous styles of dances, generally classified as classical or folk.[1] As with other aspects of Indian culture, different forms of dances originated in different parts of India, developed according to the local traditions and also imbibed elements from other parts of the country.[2]" - Wikipedia
The Hindi film industry has flourished significantly since the 1970's creating the entertainment world called Bollywood. Derived from the location names of Bombay and Hollywood, Bollywood has become one of the largest centers for film production in the world. These movies are generally spoken in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, and all classic Bollywood films have seguments of song and dance; many of which become signature hits that make the movie both memorable and successful. Fans from around the world love to learn the popular dance moves and now you can too!

Hula Dance

Traditional dance in Hawaii is the hula, and it is steeped in ancient traditions with a fascinating and intricate history that is only made more intriguing given the storytelling element of the different dances. Hula dance is a beloved and cherished cultural tradition on the Hawaiian islands. Within the many types of hula there are two that are best known: Hula Kahiko and Hula ʻAuana.  - Andrea Gibbs, Professional Dancer
Hula ʻAuana is what most people think of when referencing hula dancing. This is due to performances staged for movies and television that often prefer the use of the English language and a friendlier, more approachable vibe. More recently, this has been changing as a growing interest in Hula Kahiko and its origins is being recognized by people outside of the Hawaiian islands. While the general world population will have greater familiarity with the dancing, different costumes, and wonderful music featuring both native and more familiar instruments ofHula ʻAuana, it is still clearly defined by the storytelling element, in direct response to the external influences that dictated cultural change.
Hula Hapa Haole literally means "part foreign," and speaks to the Westernization of the hula and uses English words in the lyrics instead of the Hawaiian language. Hula ʻAuana is what most people think of when referencing hula dancing. This is due to performances staged for movies and television that often prefer the use of the English language and a friendlier, more approachable vibe. More recently, this has been changing as a growing interest in Hula Kahiko and its origins is being recognized by people outside of the Hawaiian islands. While the general world population will have greater familiarity with the dancing, different costumes, and wonderful music featuring both native and more familiar instruments of Hula ʻAuana, it is still clearly defined by the storytelling element, in direct response to the external influences that dictated cultural change. (Traditional Hawaiian Dances)
 In Tahitian dancing today there are, four types of dance.
  • The Otea : this must have been originally a somewhat military dance, reserved for men. It has become the most famous of the Tahitian dances. It is choreographed around a theme and its musical accompaniment is performed on percussion and made up of rhythmical motifs called pehe.
  • The Aparima :in this dance, the hands of the dancers mime history. The aparima can be either vava (silent) and consist of pantomime, generally performed while kneeling and accompanied by percussion or it can be sung, aparima himene, and the movements are in time to the chant which is accompanied by stringed instruments.
  • The Hivinau : during this choreography, male and female dancers wend round in a circle and a male soloist voices a phrase that the choir takes up. The orchestra is made up of various drums and the pace is maintained by the dancers’ songs.
  • The Pa’o’a :this dance seems to be derived from the movements used to make tapa (a sort of parchment made from vegetable matter). Male and female dancers crouch down in a semi-circle. A male soloist voices a theme that the choir answers. A couple get up and perform a short dance in the circle to the sound of ‘hi’s and ‘ha’s.​

Benefits of Hula Dancing

  • Physical toning of hips, stomach, thigh, calves, and arms
  • Low-Impact Cardio Workout
  • Strengthens back and muscles
  • Improves posture, coordination, motor skills, and memory
  • Decreases stress and tension
  • Provides a positive cultural experience and understanding

Fall Classes Begin October 14th

Open to ages 5-years and up and all fitness levels. No dance experience necssary! First class will meet on Saturday, Oct. 14th, from 11 am - 12:30 pm at Northern Life Yoga, S.S.M., MI. To register, visit our Facebook event page to RSVP. To pay for your session in advance, select Ticket Information to secure your payment via PayPal.
All World Dance classes are open to participants of all genders, nationalities, and ages unless otherwise stated. No experience is necessary!
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Classes offered seasonally by interest in 8-week sessions or 2-hour workshops.
Must have a minimum of 5 students to launch a new session.
​ During winter season, online classes are offered.