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Maple Street Dance Space Class: Middle Eastern Dance, Int./Adv. Nadia Yousif, Instructor. Nadias Middle Eastern dance class is taught in a structured format, much like western styles of dance. The class includes a warm-up, technique, traveling diagonals, combinations and often choreography. This Intermediate/ Advanced level class requires previous dance training. It builds on the elements of dance technique, and on the movements of the Egyptian style Raks Sharki. Folkloric references and movements are often integrated into the class to help bring an authentic representation to the study of this multifaceted modern style. A hip scarf is worn to emphasize the hip movements and any comfortable dancewear is acceptable. Bare feet or dance shoes are fine. The class progresses into a high-energy, aerobic workout, and will assist in building stamina and improve over-all body condition. The History “Belly Dance” is known in the Middle East as Raks Sharki (Rahks Sharr-kee), which literally means “dance of the East”, or “Oriental” dance. The name “belly dance” may have originated from the French phrase “danse du ventre” (dance of the belly) because of the movement of the torso. This label is inaccurate as Oriental dance involves movement of the entire body, with more emphasis on the hips than on the belly. Although the exact area of origin is controversial, what is acknowledged and agreed upon is that Oriental dance is one of the oldest dances still thriving today. In the Middle East, people dance to express joy. There are also professional dancers who are hired to perform at weddings and other celebrations. In the West, dance is studied formally in classes; in the Middle East, children learn to dance from relatives and friends at social gatherings as a part of their culture. Drop in $15.00; Class cards available: 4 for $45.00 or 10 for $100.00. For more information, or if you have any questions please call Nadia at 892-5214. www.jamesandnadiayousif.com Taught by: Nadia Yousif • September 2010 • |