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The origins of oriental dance as a birth magic ritual can be traced as far back as 35,000 BC, when the cause of birth was yet unknown to man. Pregnancy was thought to be magical, and the first deity to be worshipped was the mother goddess. Temple priest esses were her earthly representatives, dancing and performing ceremonies in her honor. The earliest rituals were often symbolic in nature, and dances enacting rebirth were believed to ensure fertility or immortality. Under these conditions, even the act of copulation was considered sacred, and temple priestesses were held in very high regard.
As the passing of time brought about changes in religious beliefs, most of the ancient traditions were abandoned. Although oriental dance endured as a cultural tradition, the original meaning behind it became obscured. Priestesses continued to perform at marriages, births and circumcisions, but were no longer held in high esteem. And as the decline in social status continued, the dance evolved into a form of entertainment. |
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The first significant presentation of Middle Eastern dance in America took place in 1893 on the midway of Chicago’s World Fair. Although performers from the Mid-East appeared in 1876 at the Centennial Celebration in Philadelphia, and countless other venues, their presence in Chicago was promoted as a featured attraction. The Avenue of Nations soon became the most popular exhibit there, and the infamous “danse du venture,” the favorite attraction. It fostered a trend of orientalism throughout the country, and soon after the fair concluded, inde pendent tour operators took their shows on the road. In order to make ends meet, some of the dancers performed in vaudeville and burlesque houses, further escalating their growing notoriety.
By the turn of the century, cultural traditions and authenticity were tossed aside, as promoters and Hollywood film makers sought to capitalize on the public appeal of fantasy and the exotic. Photos and movies emerged depicting oriental dancers scantily clad and adorned with beads. It is from these images, albeit unauthentic, that modern-day costumes were derived. Oriental dance in America still remains largely associated with cabaret or night club venues, and the negative stigma surrounding the stance still persists today. |
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Fondly known as “Aunt Rocky,” Morocco is a leading authority on the history of the dance. Much of her life’s research is presented in the articles on her site, and her recommended reading list is very extensive. |
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Health Benefits |
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In recent years, belly dance has been recognized by the health and fitness industry as a viable form of exercise. Increased awareness for the benefits it offers has fostered a nationwide trend of growing interest in the dance as an alternative to traditional aerobics. In addition to being the oldest form of childbirth preparation, belly dance is known to reduce back pain, tone and strengthen abdominal muscles, and improve flexibility and range of motion. Dancers have also reported lower cholesterol, increased bone mass, and cardiovascular benefits. In comparison to other dance forms, such as ballet, opposing muscles are elongated equally and movements require relaxation of the joints, making injury less likely to occur. But beyond the physical benefits, the pure enjoyment of the dance produces endorphins in the body which have a healing affect all their own. And women of all ages, even seniors and expecting mothers, can participate without risk of injury or pain. Overall, belly dance is much more natural and kind to the female body, and it exemplifies the feminine spirit more so than any other dance form.
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Ancient Origins
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History in America |
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