My Blog

Costuming to cover scars

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:52:14 GMT

Hi, I love your site; it's very informative! I'm 21 years old, and have been bellydancing for several months. I had surgery to remove my colon almost a year ago, and I now have a very big scar right down my middle. It's 8 inches long -- starts above my navel and goes down to my pubic bone. I love how dancing makes me feel. After months of being ill and depressed, dancing makes me feel sensual and pretty again. And it's really helping me to get back in shape. One of these days, I'd like to try dancing professionally, but I'm afraid my scars would be distracting. Do I have any options? Do you ever see dancers who are scarred up? Thanks, Jamie ANSWER: Hi, Jamie. There are lots of costumes that have a sheer material to cover the midsection for bellydancers who don't want to be exposed. If you are self conscious, perhaps the right costuming would make you feel more secure. Try sugarpetals.com for some great body stockings. Sincerely, Penny

Arabic Movie?

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:44:47 GMT

There's this friend of mine who's been nagging me about this arabic movie, an old B&W arabic flick that looks (mind you, with what I know of arabic, looks are pretty much all I can tell you about) like some parody of a secret agent movie. From what I can guess of the plot, a gang of thieves plots to steal a fortune in gems from the safe-deposit box of a visiting Rajah. An honest guy is somehow sucked up into the intrigue, but is dragooned into working with the thieves by the police who hope to catch the theives in the act. That requires, however that the poor guy steals the key himself. In the pivotal scene, our hero and this beautiful blonde who's in the plot, barge into the suite of the visiting Rajah and put on a bellydance & song act, secreting away the key while the King is distracted. The comic irony is that the blonde is supposed to distract the king while our hero snatches the key - but our hero (who wears a veil and a none-too-flattering dress) gets more attention than his comelier co-conspirator. My boyfriend caught this movie on his local arabic channel and knows nothing about the stars - especially the one who played the dancer or the title of the movie. While I'd be happy to know the star's name, my real quest is to find out the lyrics of the song they sing as they dance. My guess is that they spell out their plans as they sing - it would make sense if their audience were foreigners, they could sing out loud without fear of capture. Anyway, any information you can think of would be appreciated. I'm sure the movie is obscure, but it's worth a look - most of the time you've got dancing in movies or on TV, the dancing is pretty substandard, but it's great in that flick. - - Diana Berger

Biblical High Sounding Cymbals?

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:42:11 GMT

"Hi! I have a historical question that's been bothering me. In the Bible, the 150th Psalm describes the various instruments with wehich we are called upon to praise God. One of those is listed as "high sounding cymbals." Now keeping in mind the fact that the Bible was written in the Middle East, musical instruments in that area so different from those in the west, would those "high sounding cymbals" in fact be zills? I have a pair of zills, as a wannabe belly dancer (for my gentleman friend's eyes only), and I was wondering if I would have a Biblical basis for using them in church. It has already been established that the timbrel referred to in the same passage was a tambourine, and of course the "loud cymbals" speak for themselves. But if you could help me find an answer to my question, and give me the historical references you used in case there is any question pro or con, I would greatly appreciate it." --- Pamella Sarolle REPLY: I believe there are references in the bible to cymbals (and gongs) and to the precursors of the finger cymbals, the 'sistrum,' which served as an ancient instrument for the guy we might now label the 'Town Crier.' There are probably books that have biblical references for items listed in alphabetical order...if there's not, there SHOULD be! -- Marta What about Tambourines for Bellydancing?

Variations in Oriental Dance

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:41:14 GMT

Hello! I have recently started classes in Oriental dance, and was wondering where I might find information on the variations and thier origins...There seems to be many many styles and intrepretations, is there any book or site or other resource you could recommend? Any information would be helpful. Thank you! Li Raven I recommend The Belly Dance Book: Rediscovering the Oldest Dance Edited by Tazz Richards (Penny)

Are bellydancers Jewish or Arabian?

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:40:34 GMT

"Are belly dancers Jewish or Arabian? If both, have they any difference in their clothing and dancing? Thanks." Love and Light -- Militza

Use of LIght in Belly Dance Performances

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:39:22 GMT

"Dearest gypsy, Is the use of light important in belly dance performances? Is it used in a specific way? Hope to hear from you soon, Thank you." - - Aretousa. Any replies or opinions out there?

Christian Belly Dancers

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 22:37:02 GMT

"I noticed that there are a great many varieties of spirituality endorsed by dancers, and I too wish to dance out of that "place"..however, I am a Christian and I was wondering if I am the ONLY christian belly dancer in the world! I feel so alone at times, and worry that I have to hide my faith in the presence of other dancers who dance out of a belief system that perhaps would not regularly be 'on the same page' with me, as a person as well as a dancer. I was hoping someone would email me back with some feedback..." Renee Norwood ANSWER: Hi there! I have just come across your Q&A page for the first time, though I have been to your site numerous times. How long has it been there? (All the time! - penny). It is a really great resource. (thanks!) I am not sure how old the question is, but I saw it had no answer and wanted to write to the woman who wondered if she was the only Christian bellydancer out there. NO WAY! :) There are plenty of Christian dancers, though I understand her feelings of being verY isolated sometimes among all the many belief systems that seem to be closely linked to bellydance (eg. Goddess dancing, pagan ritual dancing, etc) Please let your writer know that any person, no matter what faith, should never be ashamed or feel they have to hide their religion from others. Your faith should be something you are proud of and celebrate, even if (and maybe even *especially if*) it makes you somehow different from others you may know. I know as a Christian it is really hard to fight the stereotypes surrounding organized religion, but I think that by not being afraid to be open and honest about our faith, others will see that Christians are everyday people with the same passions, joys, pains, struggles, questions, and open hearts as the next guy or gal. Thanks to NOT being afraid to talk about my faith, I have had the opportunity to meet other Christians who also bellydance. Some of them have found ways to incorporate their dancing into a liturigcal context, and have danced at their churches in worship. I think that is amazingly inspirational, and maybe something this woman might want to look into. Dancing is an expression of our deepest self, so why shouldn't we also be able to dance from a spiritual place within ourselves as freely as some of the other women of differing belief systems? Even if she never decides to dance, or has the opportunity to dance, in her church or other religious setting, just knowing that she can be herself will go a long way toward opening her Christian heart and soul within the dance in ways you may not have known were possible. May everyone be able to dance from "that place" within themselves. Much love, Sharon Moore, Mandala Tribal (carrying Kamikaze Costumes).

Bellydance Props

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:45:16 GMT

Question: RE: PROPS: There's a new DVD by Farhana http://www.pinkgypsy.com/farhana which deals specifically with props, including candles and swords, balancing and choosing props. You can buy it online in our catalogue. Farhana's Belly Dance & Balance: The Art of Sword and Shamadan, 46 min DVD - Order Online "No other video teaches these special aspects of balancing and also gives you the "nuts and bolts" of preparation and care for your balance accessories. Additionally, Farhana reveals secrets about the hottest moves for enhancing your bellydance performance. This video is a MUST for any dance video library." - Marta Schill, co-author of The Compleat Belly Dancer and President of M.E.C.D.A. -- Thanks, The Pink Gypsy

TATOOED BELLY DANCERS

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:36:27 GMT

Question from Tattooed Lady: Hello, I need an opinion on tattoos for dancers. I have one and plan to get several more tattoos - on my neck, back, and legs. I don't have nor plan to get any tattoos on my stomach or bust. I need to know if I should make efforts to hide my tattoos. Does the design make a difference? Is the general opinion that dancers should not be tattooed? Or should I show them off? What about women who do have tattoos on their stomach area - how would this affect their image? Thanks! Answer: Dear Tattooed Lady, I personally like tattoos and have seen many which have made me consider such a choice. They are sexy, beautiful and exotic. However, I know of one very professional dancer who works in Los Angeles in a lot of clubs and other venues who must often hide hers. She uses special makeup (check with "Cinema Secrets" in Hollywood) or covers with a vest,pants, skirts, sleeves, or dance dress. It depends on where you are working and for whom you are working. Most professional actresses in the trade cover theirs depending on what film, video or appearance they are making. What market do you wish to target, are you a full-time actress/entertainer or a hobbyist? Are you in a Punk Rock or Goth band? Do you also perform exotic dance? (Do not confuse this with Bellydance, please). Are you die-hard American Tribal like Fat Chance and friends? Are you part time and like it that way? Try to be very realistic about your goals and your image as these are important for the aware performer. It is certain that most Middle eastern, Mediterranean, and Asian club and restaurant owners will not appreciate these kinds of decorations. In their eyes, it makes you a member of a very low caste - and believe it or not, dancers already suffer from this type of general reputation. And sometimes making a living may preclude the "Just be yourself" axiom. Also, as a Los Angeles couturier costumer and dance coach puts it, "This dance is sexy enough already." Exceptions exist. I know of two other very young, blond, talented, and beautiful members of "Desert Bloom" who have large flying fairies tattooed on the smalls of their backs. They worked together for a while, and then separately in a lot of avante garde or edgy generation x-er venues and like it that way, though I think they sometimes have shows for Mediterranean clients. It is possible they cover their designs up when they perform in certain places, and one of them sometimes works with a small snake. I have used temporary tattoos to give an exotic effect when called for. - M. I am a belly dancer from South Africa and I have read some of your Q/A on the net. I myself have a tatoo of a dragon circling around my belly button. Apart from my old teacher, who were a bit misinformed about most things, I really haven't had anybody making comments about my tatoo - in fact - most people (Greeks etc.) find it fascinating. Only for some TV appearances like ads I have to cover it up. Of course it also depends on what the tatoo looks like. I have seen some really ugly ones that had to be covered up. I actually have read that the middle easten women do henna tatoos and real ones as a symbol for protection. But in the end it's a matter of taste and many people are still very conservative and misinformed about tatoos. Tatiana (that's her tatoo pictured above)

UNDULATIONS

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:35:24 GMT

Question: PLEASE ADVISE ME HOW TO PERFORM UNDULATIONS. I HAVE A DIFFICULT TIME WITH THIS MOVE. Christine K. ANSWER: The best way to learn how to properly perform an undualtion is to find a good teacher or dance coach for some private lessons- or even group lessons if that is not an option. There are many in the Los Angeles and surrounding areas. A good teaching video would be the next best option. Otherwise it is possible to train yourself incorrectly which can lead to back injury. The most common execution of this movement involves syncronized forward and backward rotations of the chest and hips- connected by the stomach and abdomen. Different parts of the body can also be undulated in various postures. - M.

FOLK COSTUMES OF YEMEN

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:23:49 GMT

Question: Dearest Gypsy; I would greatly appreciate any information you may provide concerning the folk costumes of Yemen. I'm especially hopeful of finding an alternative to the hood headdress. (I just haven't the face for a 'duck hood'.) Shula ANSWER: Dear Shula, Have you looked at the Yemenite wedding headdresses? Have you considered adapting existing designs? A much shorter cone with jewelry going from ear to ear under the chin and coins or fringe across the forehead might look very nice on you. You could also add a flower or two somewhere for color if you like. I was at a Yemenite wedding on Moshav Yishi in Israel in l981 and was fortunate enough to paint the bride's sister's portrait in her wedding headdress and jewelry. I also danced at some other weddings of their friends in Mitzepe Ramon. She had been married in the same treasured antique clothing some years before. I believe her name was Yoshi(?) and her husband's name Baruch. It was a long time ago, though I still have their photos. There must be books available through museums in Israel or Jewish historical associations - Try the Skirball Center just north of the Ghetty Center off the 405 (Los Angeles, Californa). They have a large collection of Jewish artifacts and they might also have books or know where to send you. College libraries, such as the one at UCLA have large reference sections too. If you are good on computers, go into their files. Wishing you luck and Shabat Shalom. - M.

GYPSY SYMBOLS?

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:23:03 GMT

ANOTHER Gypsy Question: RE Symbols. Hi! I'm really interested in gypsy symbolism, regarding not only tarot but all symbols of any sort, relating to gypsies... The reason why is that I'm part Gypsy myself, and Im trying to find some inspiration to a new tattoo... Can you help me put on that issue? Christina, Denmark

GYPSY CULTURE

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:22:28 GMT

ANOTHER GYPSY QUESTION: I would like to learn and adapt gypsy culture more . . Where do I start? Is that an acceptable option to let outsiders in to their culture and groups and ways of life not just the clothing of course but I would love to learn all that I can about the gypsies that we have in our existence today . . and the ancestors that made it all happen . . Thank You Nikki

Gypsy Dancing, Risque? Censored?

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:21:49 GMT

Question: My mother recalls seeing,when she was a child, a fair that had a few Gypsy attractions. She vividly remembers the dancer outside of a tent giving the crowd a taste of the performance inside. Her description of the dance differs from traditional belly - dance.It was not the traditional Gypsy dance, nor was the costume. The dance was very risqué but extremely graceful and beautiful. There's no doubt these were real Gypsys since there's a lot of Gypsy blood in our family so she knew they were not fakes. My problem is after reading everything I can find on Gypsy or belly-dance, I can't find anything quite like the dancing she saw. Are there styles not so heard of now? Or has Gypsy dance forms and belly-dancing become politically correct and fallen prey to censorship? ANSWER: Hello yes, political correctness strikes everywhere. Censorship and styles not so heard of now also. Change from generation to generation is continuous. Always question what you hear no matter where you hear it when you are doing research. If you look at the film "Gadjo Dilo" (I think that's how it is spelled), you may see something similar to what your mother describes. It is by the director of the other film "Latcho Drom" who happens to be a Hungarian or Romanian gypsy himself and uses real gypsies in his casts. This and the other one may be available from some rental places. The most interesting thing I remember about Gadjo Dilo is meeting a group of real gypsies at the theater who came to see it. They offered us tips about doing our hair and not wearing black. Then they tried to buy one of the coin scarves we were wearing. I was with a dance troupe who did the two opening days of the film. The other troup members were bellydancing in cabaret costumes. I did a little magic and a real Rom song from the film "Les Temps de Gitans" and was asked if I was Romanian. Some of the gypsy women we met were so embarrassed that they left the theater and stood outside during some of the scenes in the film. There was drinking, cursing, love making, dancing on tables at weddings (belly and something else quite similar) and a couple of murders. The imaging of the people is very much like what we would imagine and what "gadjos" might imitate, which will anger many gypsies and their own scholars tremendously. No ethnic group ever likes to see anything they feel is negative or low class, even if true, portrayed about themselves usually. They will almost always deny its existence to outsiders unless they know and like you very well. Especially in front of non-group members, such as non-gypsies, or their own peer group. It represents a loss of face to most older members. The film also shows a dancer in a cellar restaurant in Bucharest doing Turkish dance in a belly dance costume. Graceful but not all that interesting or risqué to my eyes. Can you get a more detailed description from your mother? Time and a conservative viewpoint could be influencing her memory. Remember, sometimes ANY gypsy business with outsiders is adjusted to gain the most advantage and financial return. As in gypsy Mafia storefront fortune telling salons. The buja women there are just looking for the needy gadjo with money to walk in the door for a good fleecing. Though most likely they would not do this to one of their own group who would know better. It the old "Oh you need a cleansing".... line. Let me know about any further developments. I am interested in your viewpoint and your mother's. M. THANK YOU! Thank you for your help. I've been studying everything I can find about the Gypsy culture.As I said there is Rom blood in my family, but unfortunatly they chose to hide it.My grandmother taught me some things before she died, but I've always had an insatiable need for more. Music and dance are two of my greatest loves and there is something about this I need to find. I can't wait to see the film you told me about, and I'm going to get as many details from mom as possible.This means a great deal to me so I truly appreciate the help. Thanks again.

LOOKING FOR FATIMA

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:15:01 GMT

QUESTION: Where can I get information of an infamous belly dancer that performed in Tombstone, Arizona in the mid to later 1800's or so. She entertained at the Birdcage Saloon. I would be interested in any pictures too. I belong to An Old West re-enacting group where we portray people of the 1800's and do living history. She went by the name of "Fatima". Can anyone help me? Beverlie Griffin, dakotarose1880@charter.net, 9580 172nd. St. W., Lakeville, MN 55044, 952-898-4126

Voluptuous Belly Dancers

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:12:45 GMT

QUESTION: Hi there! I have just started learning belly dance with the assistance of Neena and Veena's DVDs (http://www.pinkgypsy.com/bellytwins) . . and have now enrolled in a formal bellydance class. I am a heavier woman, and was paralyzed from the waist down about a year and a half ago due to a ruptured disc. I cannot believe the progress I've made, even in the short time of about 4 months. I have regained so much strength, and loosened up my back, and I've lost almost 45 pounds!!!! A couple questions. One, is that I find it interesting, that many of the top belly dancers are actually quite voluptuous - size 18 and beyond. It makes me feel so good, that there is a dance out there, that celebrates the womanly form, regardless of what you see in the fashion magazines. This really gave me inspiration - however, with that almost appearing to be a norm, why is it so hard to find tops over a 38D? I am almost into a 38D from a 42D, but not quite, so I want a little larger, but it is so frustrating to even find that rare 42, and usually the matching bottoms aren't larger than a 38 without really having to look, or pay a small fortune for them. With many of the dancers in plus sizes. Why does it seem so hard to find sizes that will fit a size 18 and up? (That's also something that really torques me off with Victoria's Secret - a double D bra or larger cup, with no larger than a 34 - 36 rib cage? Get real! hahaha!) (Catharae http://www.pinkgypsy.com/catharae, can make you a costume in your size and color choices - Pink Gypsy) OK. The other question. Of these beautiful voluptuous women, some who have danced years and years, and are quite large, it seems it would cause them to lose weight if they're dancing so much, and really, it does seem like quite the workout, so why would they still be a larger size? Please don't take that wrong. I am a large woman, and I think it's so beautiful that belly dancers aren't like stick ballerina's lol. :) Even more, it's a breath of fresh air, that it is actually excepted and considered beautiful. (Finally!!!!!) It just seems strange, that after that many years of performing and practicing, that they would remain that voluptuous. I really want to try to get a flat stomach and it seems this would really do it, so I'm just wondering, why it doesn't seem to happen after that many years. I am reading this, and this sounds so pro skinny. I really don't mean it that way. It just seems, with all that hard work, you'd lose weight. Is it just not enough of an aerobic workout to belly dance.... or do they maybe choose to stay that way because it's considered beautiful? I have finally excepted myself at the weight I am, and I started at almost 270 pounds, in a size 22/24. (I know, the weight doesn't match the size, but for some reason, I've always weighed far more than the size I can wear), I started to take on belly dance, and that's when my weight started dropping like crazy, and I have tried everything before I finally decided if people don't like me the way I am, then too bad lol. :) I quit trying, and that's when things really started to change. Belly dancing really makes you get in touch with your body, and you have to really accept your body, and love it, and by doing that, I have learned to love myself for who I am, and know that I am beautiful no matter what size. Belly dance truly makes you feel like a goddess. I was just curious and wondered if you had any thoughts on the subject. Thanks so much! :) -- "Rhiannon" ANSWER: Hi Rhiannon, First off congratulations on your success and healthful recovery! Now, regarding more voluptuous dancers, I think that one thing that many of us in the US sometimes forget is that every culture except those of the western Europeans and United States regard more voluptuous women as beautiful. In the Middle East and Latin America in particular, a woman would be considered sickly looking if she is the size of the average American model or actress. These cultures recognize that a more voluptuous woman is healthier, more sexually appealing, and will be a better bearer of children than a toothpick type girl. That being said, I believe that is the reason that more voluptuous dancers are more successful in the Middle East and Egypt. And luckily the Middle Easterners and Egyptians who move to America retain the preference for women who are healthy looking. Therefore, they hire women as belly dancers who are more voluptuous than the average American ideal. On a personal note I have noticed that I get more work dancing when I am carrying a little more weight than I usually do. I think the reason that the dancers who you speak of that have been dancing for years do not lose more weight and kind of "level off" at a more voluptuous size is because they want to retain the sexual appeal of a larger woman. So the lack of weight loss would typically be on purpose. Also, after years of dancing, one will see tremendous gains in lean muscle mass. This is a good thing as it makes your body healthier, but it also keeps one from obtaining the stick thin body type that is preferred here in the States. One thing that bothers me is that we have been so inundated with the idea that working out equals stick thin, that we all think, "Oh, I'll work out and then I'll look like Jennifer Aniston." The reality is that as women WE ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO BE THAT THIN. The female body must be able to handle the growing and giving of life, and we can't do that if we have so little body fat that we can barely support our own life! Now, for the bra sizing issue: I believe that the reason it is so hard to find larger size bras in the States is because since it is not considered the cultural ideal, some of the costume makers ignore the larger sizes. Have you tried Cathrae's Treasures here on the Pink Gypsy site. She can probably make something lovely for you. If you don't want to try that, then I would suggest either making you own costumes with bras that you find that are suitable, or sending away to Turkey or Egypt and having the costume custom made for you. There are some costume manufacturers that will custom make to meet your size. The bottom line is, love yourself and your body for what it can do and how it makes you feel, not what it looks like. I've found the best dancers to be ones who feel the music and interpret it through their bodies. The beauty of dance is that it is conducive to women's bodies, no matter what shape, size or age. Best of luck to you! Mahira

Lose weight with Belly Dance?

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:09:03 GMT

Question: "My name is Melissa,my fiance just told me I need to lose weight and I'm not sure how. I saw a show about belly dancing on Lifetime's New Attitude. I'm 5' 3 and weigh 140lbs. Alot of my weight is from a steroid Prednisone that I have to take for Chron's disease. Is there a way your dance can help me? Is it possible for me to lose 25lbs in 30 days. I am also doing Tae Bo daily. Thank you for your time, I'm desperate." Reply: Dear Melissa, Keep the Tai Bo (carefully - unless done gradually, you can seriously injure yourself with too much jarring too soon), change your diet and dump the fiance. I'm 5'4, about 132 lbs, have an attitude, and people like it. You will lose weight with the Tai Bo, but do the dancing because you would like to learn to enjoy your body. Find yourself, then find a man. M. Another Opinion: Dear Desperate, I don't believe that any exercise will cause you to lose weight if you eat too much food. But it will tone up your body and give you more energy and belly dance especially gives you self confidence and poise as you learn to hold your head high, throw back your shoulders and proudly project your chest as a woman and a feminine goddess. If my boyfriend told me to lose weight I would get a new boyfriend. He should love you just the way you are. Penny The Pink Gypsy ANOTHER OPINION -- I agree with the first 2 replies to your question. A REAL man would not tell you to lose weight. Losing weight should be something to do FOR YOURSELF, not for some 2-bit ape high on himself and body image. I am 5"2" and weigh 145.. and I dance! It's time to do things for YOU.. Forget about him! He obviously has a self esteem problem which you do not need to carry on your back for the rest of your life. If he is saying things like that in this stage of your relationship, RUN!! It will only get worse as time goes on. I know. -- KG

Define Belly Dance

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:06:57 GMT

Question: "I'm a student who is researching different styles of dance, particularly belly dancing and was hoping you could spare a few moments of your time to send me a few words describing your personal definition of belly dance and what it represents to you. Thank you for your prompt response." Leitesa Reply: "Belly dancing is possibly the last frontier of improvisational dance, and properly performed, represents a glorification of female sensuality and strength rather than the debasing of it." M.

Male Belly Dance Attire

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:05:27 GMT

Question: "Hi there! I was invited to a fancy dress party. But my partner needs to be dressed accordingly! Please could you help regarding an outfit for my boyfriend? Thanks, Bronwyn James" Reply: "Belly dance costumes for men! What a striking image that request conjures up! Depending, of course, on the venue, it can be very basic with harem pants, a fringed hip scarf, full sleeved shirt or tunic, and maybe a vest to top it off. The costume can be created from different FABRICS to change the look. Basics, again, would be the simple, natural fabrics. Rayons, lightweight cottons in solid or ethnic looking patterns all make splendid combos. Make the vests and belts from flexible upholstery yardage, and you'll be surprised at how it adds texture to the look. Step up the glitz with shiny fabrics, including lame's and jersey lame's, sequined fabrics, or fabrics with metallic threads. Add coins as trim, and, closely sewn together, for SOUND - great addition to the belt and the vest. Another terrific costume pairing - loose caftan top, harem pants, with fringed hip belt on top. Striped fabric caftans have that ethnic look; shimmery metallics are great stuff for cabaret. Toss in a twisted fabric headband across the forehead, (or turban, if you're really into it), and the look's complete. Plain or fancy, you can make the male dancer a treat for the audience's eyes! And we all know, you just dance better when you're in costume....." Answer, thanks to our costuming genius, Catharae http://www.pinkgypsy.com/catharae Photo above is of Drakon, from our web page for Male Belly Dancers http://www.pinkgypsy.com/male-dancers/

The Four Elements of Bellydance

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 21:02:30 GMT

Question: "Hi, gypsy. I'm a Brazilian belly dance student and I should like to ask you about the relation between the belly dance and the four elements (fire, water, earth and air.) Thanks, Ra-ma" Reply #1: "Many dancers have invented a relationship for ritual or theatrical purpose. Middle Eastern dance is no exception. Specific examples of possession, wards against the evil eye, imitations of the movements of animals, war, hunting, fishing, exorcism, etc. in folk performances only. Remember, invention is the key word here. Sufis, in their turning with left hand to earth, right hand to sky- are conduits for spirit. Kuwaiti dance has references to waves and nets in the motion of the thob nashal- a women's dance specifically. None of this is belly dance. All folk. Modern belly dance everywhere but in America is a sensual expression specifically- there is much discussion about whether it reflects childbirth, lovemaking, etc. Some East Indian dancers claim it originated from temple dance in India- but these are origins, not modern uses. Belly dance is classicized, eroticized, de-eroticized, etc. and many choose to believe that if one is Egyptian, studying in Egypt, or emulating any middle eastern teacher of the dance that this is the correct form. Ask an Egyptian woman about ritual belly dance and she will look at you cross-eyed or worse- and then possibly agree with you and charge you big bucks to study her own invention of the "elemental" dance. But make of it what you will. Ultimately on top of its beauty, sensuality and exhibition of women's flexibility it is fantasy and invention." M.

Long Hair for Belly Dancing?

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 20:59:57 GMT

Question: My question concerns hairstyles and the belly dancer. Is is absolutely necessary for the serious belly dancer to grow her hair long and flowing. In my search of internet sites I have yet to see a short haired belly dancer. I worry that a wig would fling off and headscarves make me appear even older than I am. If you know of a website that features a short coifed belly dancer I'd love to view it. Sincerely, Janice Reply #1: "Try shoulder length or upper back with bangs - curly and full around your face - sort of a gypsy look. Add a scarf and beaded head bands to hold wig on and frame your eyes. Go to a wig store and play. And don't buy a cheap wig, it will soon look like a wet cat. If you are going to do it, check into falls and real hair. That is danger zone to skimp in. Have an expert fasten it on, and show you how. There is someone at Cairo Carnivale and was at Rakkasa who does wigs for dancers. Lots of them wear wigs. Get a good stylist who will listen to you. Interview them, cut pictures out of magazines, etc. Remember, its a fantasy. You are a fantasy." M. Reply #2: Dear Janice, No need to wait years for the hair to catch up with the burning desire to dance! Many dancers have worn wigs, falls, various hairpieces, for years without mishap. Our own Marta Schill carried her flowing locks in a dance kit to each performance. One of my favorite dancers, Dyan, is virtually incognito without the mane of curls she wears at showtime. Ditto Michelle Fornier, (ex-CA), as I saw her in a major competition a few years ago, now in Washington, D.C. For some insight, check out Morocco (the DANCER, not the country), from New York. She's been a valuable resource for M.E. dance for years, AND, she has short hair. Depending on your dance style, costuming can enhance the overall look. American Tribal and ethnic dance forms can incorporate the turban and other head wraps. Look at FatChanceBellyDance - No hair is visible, at all! These dancers do floorwork, sword work, drops, spins. No problem. Short, and sleek, the hair is very dramatic. I think you can use it to your advantage to create the persona of your dancer. Take a tip from the flamenco dancers - try keeping it close to the head, and embellish with simple adornments. A local (So Cal) dancer, who chooses the elegant Egyptian style Raks Sharqi, has a pixie-type cut, and wears a simple, sequined head band. She keeps her whole look smooth and close to the body - from dance form to costuming. Keep looking, and keep using the styles that are most becoming to you in general. Some of us just don't look our best in long hair. It's just the 'stereotype' we all see. Dance for the inner dancer, whoever she is." Answer thanks to our costume expert, Catharae, http://www.pinkgypsy.com/catharae - You can purchase the fringed velvet hip scarves in the photo above, made by Catharae, and the cholis as well, along with harem pants on the Pink Gypsy web page. Thanks.

Finger Cymbals, zills, zils

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 20:52:48 GMT

Question: "I was just wondering if you could help me with choosing my first pair of Professional Finger Cymbals. I have been asked to do some Belly Grams for people that I know. I am just starting out Professionally and feel I can start performing. Anyway, I need a pair of Professional zills. My hands are very small. I know small ones don't have that great of a sound, but do you know of a good size for professional use for a Dancer with small fingers? They can't be too large because of the size of my short stubby fingers. My fingers are like a child's, except they are chubby. I am an adult. Which sound is the most preferred by Dancers, high or low pitch, bell-tone, or mellow? Anyway, do you know of any finger cymbals that sound like bells, are not too large, and that you would recommend for me? Is there any such things as a bell sounding tone in a finger cymbal? Like the bells worn by East Indian Dancers? Which size would you recommend for me to get with the consideration that I want quality Profession type Zills, but they can't be too large as my fingers are really short and they can't over power me. Thank you for your help. Thank you and please reply soon"..Diana Answer: Hello Diana, Your question regarding zills for small hands that can be used in professional dance jobs has many answers. Don't worry too much about needing really big zills for your dancing, especially if you are just starting. I really would only recommend large zills for performances in large spaces or outdoors. If you are starting with bellygrams in restaurants, private homes, then consider only the zills with the sound you like, that feel comfortable and feel easy to keep the rhythm to speed. Saroyan carries a variety of zills of the intermediate category, (don't be fooled by the term "intermediate," you can easily use them in paid gigs....) that are almost as small, probably about 2 1/4" diameter, and light as the beginner weight. You can order in the same diameter, with either the light or heavy metal content. Weight of the zill, as well as SHAPE of the bell on the zill, affects the sound, tone, pitch of the zill. Heavier and/or larger also equates to more advanced, more difficult, "more" professional. (The Pink Gypsy carries beginners zills for $10 including shipping and handling!) I personally like the sound of the ones with the ridges in a flared bell. One of my students only buys the ones with the concave bell shape. I continued to use my Saroyan Nefertiti beginner intermediate zills for several years of performing, and enjoyed the sound and the feel. Now I have 3 very different sets from which to choose. But, bottom line, you will overpower your audience with BIG zills in the intimate setting. The larger the room, the larger the zill you will need to be heard. Out of doors makes for a sound vacuum - no surfaces to bounce the sound waves back to your ears. In those venues, feel the need to exceed. One final note on size: small zills are easier to play; larger ones are harder. When you are first beginning, you may prefer the smaller for performing - they will make you sound good, until your zills are second nature to you. BUT, practice with the big ones - your fingers will simply fly when you switch back to the smaller ones in your performance. If you aren't sure which tones are best, trust your own ears. I gave away a set of zills because *I* couldn't stand to hear them for the whole performance. A good place to test them - one of the local events sponsored by associations like MECDA, SAMEDA, etc. You will find vendors like Harry Saroyan, with his complete arrange of bells, or Ali of Turquoise International, who has a line as well. PLAY with all of them. Trust your ears, and try them on for size. Sometimes you can find used ones that are perfectly good - give them a ring. Hard to use: imported sets with beautiful curved edges and (here's the problem) one single hole for the elastic to thread through. These have less control of the bell, and they wobble around on the finger, sometimes causing needless and unexpected contact with each other - CLANG! Later, they can be a fun challenge (truthfully, I enjoy the sound of these butterflies, but they are tough to learn to control). Thanks for the question, hope you find some answers here. Catharae http://www.pinkgypsy.com/catharae You can buy Student zills on the Pink Gypsy Web site, and they come with a FREE velvet zil bag / pouch for carrying.

Belly Dance Style / Terms

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 20:50:26 GMT

Question: May I ask you a question about dance style and terms? Are Delilah and Del Vecchio cabaret style dancers? In my surfing, I haven't come across any articles discussing what the different dance styles are. Is "belly dance" an appropriate term or is it degrading? I have gotten some mixed feedback. I do not mean to offend but I do not know if Middle Eastern Dance Oriental or Raks Sharki is the "belly dance" that I mean to refer to. Why is "belly dance" a bad term for some people? Thanks again, Khrystynne Hi Khrystynne! (great name) Please forgive me for returning your message now as I have had problems with my computer - but all is fixed now. Thanks for your great and informative comments regarding our video. We will be coming out with more videos series - instructional. The last set was more fitness oriented; they should be released by x-mas. The term belly dance was a misconception and mispronunciation - it was really called "belady dance", which means "dance of the people." It was a dance of celebration for women, and by women. We have family in the Middle East, and we're not offended by the word "belly dance." Some Egyptians prefer the dance to be called oriental dance. I'm sure the other dancers explained alot of your questions by now. Hope it helps! Love Veena & Neena (The BellyTwins) http://www.pinkgypsy.com/bellytwins - pictured above is one of their Music CDs for sale on the Pink Gypsy web site.

Floorwork

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 20:47:15 GMT

Question: Greetings Gypsy, I have a question about belly dancing I haven't yet found the answer to anywhere. Is it really true that some dancers can move objects, like glasses and coins on their stomach, using their stomach muscles alone? I've seen various styles and performances, but never anything like that, I've only read rumors. If it is a fact, is it a sort of a virtuosic skill or a common talent? Yours truly, Mikko P Reply: Hello Mikko, Great question - and what it boils down to is - is this easy or not? A resounding NOT! Yes, I have seen some exceptional dancers, who used to do this routinely in their dance performances, demonstrate for those of us who attended their workshops/retreats. Of all the women in my sessions, only one seemed to be able to QUICKLY imitate with any success. It takes concentration and practice of muscle isolation to get this to even look like a feat of agility or fine motor response, and not an agonizing, writhing contortion of a would-be Houdini. Coin flipping, dollar folding, rolling quarters - all mysterious skills that seem to be from performers and performances long past!! I think perhaps we are truly not seeing much of it now BECAUSE of the Egyptian style influence that is currently popular. Egyptian style is very upright, and elevated - not performed on the floor, and less and less performed with a bare "belly." Coin "tricks" require both floorwork and bare tummies, so.... Regarding who is still available to see these amazing skills demonstrated: check out Delilah, of Seattle, WA. She includes a "how - to" segment in her instructional videos - just in case you feel inspired to continue this legacy!! I have watched her turn quarters, laid in a row of three on her belly - all at once, one at a time in order, AND on request (which one now, the middle or the end?) She is terrific at snapping the diaphragm and popping a silver dollar into a small cup on her abdomen. But, remember, regardless of her natural abilities as a dancer, she has years of experience and practice behind her, and she has dedicated a good portion of her life to advancing this art form. So she can make it look easy! Personal note: tried for awhile, and was able to turn the quarters, but believe me, it wasn't pretty! I have also seen Suzanne Del Vecchio execute some marvelous belly maneuvers, but am not sure where in her videos. She is another dancer who carries on many of the dancing traditions that Americans fell in love with during the 60's and 70's. I have seen her belly rolls that look like tidal waves. She does floorwork with her sword on top of the belly rolls, ending with a muscle pop that bounces the sword high enough to clear her body and land in another spot! Quite impressive!! So, I guess the message here is : Yes, Mikko, there is still a faction amongst the dancers who do this, and will continue to pass the skills along. Unfortunately, for most of us who love floorwork, we must seek these performers out, and bring it back to center stage. Perhaps you will be one to join the ranks of the performers, and help preserve this part of our art....Thanks for the intriguing question. Catharae http://www.pinkgypsy.com/catharae - photo above is of Catharae wearing a hip belt and choli that she made.

Snake Dancing

Penny — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 20:44:00 GMT

QUESTION: Can we hire a snake charmer for our Festival of India Exhibit? Debbie C., Curator of Education, Port Huron Museum, MI Answer: "We work with a mechanical cobra which is sound activated or with any one of several non-poisonous snakes of your choice. Otherwise, you may want to call around Hollywood for animal extras and trained handlers to avoid any problems since East Indian snake charmers work with venomous snakes and would be legally required to have what is called a "hot permit"- especially in any event where the public at large is concerned. I believe live cobras are illegal in public and if not, anyone with one would have had the poison glands and fangs removed- or the mouth will be sewn shut for the show. Not so nice for the snake either way. Or - Contact some reptile breeders through reptile magazines found in any pet store. There are people who specialize in venomous snakes. They might tell you more than I can." M. Photo above is of Mesmera with snake, www.mesmera.com