Istanbul belly dancing is a huge tourist attraction. Nightclubs everywhere offer special shows meant for visitors. However, Istanbul belly dancing is not just for tourists. Belly dancing is very much a part of Turkish history and culture. It has evolved with time but it has its roots in many different types of cultures that have helped to shape the dance into its present form.
There are certain characteristics of the dance that are unique to Istanbul belly dancing in terms of costume and props. It was traditionally meant for the eyes of women only as this was considered a sacred dance that celebrated fertility.
Costume and Props
The traditional Turkish costume for belly dancing involves a long skirt with a high slit. This skirt emphasizes the leg and Istanbul belly dancing involves the dancer's legs more than other types of belly dancing. Although there is such a thing as belly dancing slippers it can sometimes be performed with high heels and platform shoes.
Turkish belly dancers also play zils, or finger cymbals during performances. Purists say that a dancer can only be considered skilled if they can play the finger cymbals while dancing. Four zils are usually used, two for each hand. They are very small and it can be difficult to master playing these tiny instruments and dancing at the same time.
The dance style of Istanbul belly dancing is also very different than that of Egyptian belly dancing. This is because there are fewer restrictions on Turkish belly dancing. Turkish dancers are allowed to do floor work and to incorporate pelvic thrusts into their shows unlike Egyptian dancers. Turkish dance also tends to be more gymnastic and energetic, rather than slow and sensual.
Modern Culture
Istanbul belly dancing is still very much a part of everyday life in Turkey. It is still a popular custom for a belly dancer to perform at weddings. Belly dancers are also called on to entertain at circumcision ceremonies for young boys. Television programs also feature belly dancing and there are quite a few famous belly dancers that are celebrated both in Turkey and around the world.
Turkish belly dancing is distinctly different from its Egyptian variant and watching a performance will most definitely be breathtaking. It is truly a display of grace, agility, and showmanship. It is guaranteed to be a fun night for everyone present. One performance is enough to make you want to take this exquisite dance form up yourself.
There is an assumption in western countries that belly dancing is an inappropriate and scandalous activity. This assumption is about as far from true and you could get. Many people will make unfair comments about belly dancing when they learn of young girls or teenagers performing this dance. It is a wonder why people have such a negative feeling about this art form. The Costumes It might be the costumes that are worn that have given the dance such a bad reputation. The costumes of some belly dancers are designed to be sensuous and sexy, but that is not true for all. Some dancers wear costumes that cover their entire body while they dance. They usual costume that is worn consists of a bra and skirt with embellishments added for decoration. In Egypt women are not allowed to show their skin, so many will wear full body suits underneath their costume to adhere to the law. Even if a belly dancer doesn't wear a full body suit under her costume the reality of the costume is not really as bad as many would have you believe. The more explicit costumes are a bra and skirt combination. Most of the women's bodies are covered by this costume. It is a great deal more modest than a bikini and bikinis are not considered to be scandalous. The History of Belly Dancing So we have determined that the costumes should not be a source of scandal, what about the history? The origins of belly dancing is still unknown today. What we do know about this ancient art form is that it is a dance for women. It has been a dance that was performed for women by other women. Mother's teach their daughters this ancient ritual and it has been passed down through the generations. In the past the only way a man could view belly dancing was if another man was performing. The dance has been considered a sacred ritual for women. It might be the goddess worship aspect of belly dancing that has made it so controversial. The worship of the gods and goddesses has been deemed an immoral and indecent act. It might seem as though belly dancing was against men in general because of its practice for women. It is an art form that empowers women and embraces their inner strengths. It is common for feminine worship and empowerment to be hidden and pushed down by society. In a world where women are supposed to be man like in their actions and behavior, something that explores the true femininity might be a problem. This beautiful and graceful art form should not be viewed as something scandalous or evil. It should be displayed for the celebration of woman that it is.
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Charlie Reese has sinced written about articles on various topics from Psychic Readings, Wedding Gowns and Wedding Bells. Charlie Reese enjoys getting belly dance instruction and talking to the students about dance. Charlie as well enjoys getting a good to the fellows. Charlie Reese's top article generates over 673000 views. to your Favourites.
Paul J Eastwood has sinced written about articles on various topics from Dancing, Women Skirts and Dancing. provides information, articles and tips on. Paul J Eastwood's top article generates over 8100 views. to your Favourites.