Embracing what bellydance is to you

After hearing one too many comments on costuming choices on stage and in practice, I realize that this really is the basis of the attitude of bellydance in modern society. It is an art form that has grown more and more popular since the 70’s yet there is still so much people don’t understand about it. People feel the need to treat it like a dirty little secret, and those of us who dance feel the need to defend ourselves for loving it.

What I am most saddened by, is listening to fellow bellydancers commenting on “proper attire,” commenting on slutty costume choices stating that their own is more traditional, or professional, or acceptable. That for some reason adding a sheer belly mesh makes you less trashy, and that a coin bra and a full skirt is less offensive than a form fitting sequined dress and a bedlah made of beaded fringe and sequins. Why is it that society must encourage us to diminish such a beautiful dance that gives us so much to our soul and spirit to a costume….and for that matter the type of costume.

My first real lesson in embracing your power through the dance,  came to me the night my friend Amanda and I attended the “Bellydance Superstars” show in Las Vegas. Watching those women embrace their power on stage…to watch them dance in such a sensual way yet still retain their strength was empowering.

Our two seconds of fame….you can see us (sort of) on the DVD “30 Days to Vegas”

If you are dancing to show off your breasts, to have people leer at the curve of your hips, to comment on the sheerness or cut of your costume….then you are not there for the right reason. The strength and power of your dance….the ability to make someone feel, to have them gasp at your beauty and your femininity and sensuality comes from the power of your dance and your ability to connect with both sides of your female nature. That is what makes you a bellydancer, not a costume.

So dance little sister, dance…for as long as you dance this ancient woman’s dance will survive and laugh in the face of all attacks. As long as there are women, it will go on beating and living, it’s proud strength passed on from woman to woman.  (Taken from “Grandmother’s Secrets”)