 Several years ago, I was cast as Mrs. Potiphar in the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. A cameo appearance onstage as the Biblical temptress opened my eyes to a whole new form of movement; belly dance. Granted, my role was more of a burlesque dance number but at my request, there was enough sensual oriental dance mixed in with the bump-and-grind that I was quickly addicted to the style. The gorgeous costume, custom-made for me, just sealed the deal!
The greatest misconception about belly dance is that it was used as a dance of seduction, to gain the attention of Sultans and the favor of Kings. According to the glorious Oscar Wilde, in his play "Salome", King Herod's step-daughter danced the "Dance of the Seven Veils" to beguile the king into giving her the head of John the Baptist on a silver tray. In fact, the art of belly dance has deeper roots in fertility rituals and preparation for birthing! Often times, the dancing was performed for the amusement of other women, not men at all. Watching the undulating hips and the amazing stomach control of the dancers, it is easy to see the truth in such a theory. Practicing the art of belly dance is an empowering act, a reclamation of Divine femininity. It's also an incredible form of exercise! It works your entire body with both aerobic and yoga-like movements. Belly dance is suited to any body type and is gentler than most other forms of movement. Plus, it makes you feel quite sexy! I highly recommend any of Veena and Neena Badasha's Bellydance Fitness for Beginners tapes or DVDs. Not only are they incredibly beautiful, talented women, but they also have developed a work-out regimen that is actually al ot of fun.  USEFUL LINKS |
