Middle Eastern Dance

One of the harder to research types of medieval dance due to scant documentation, Middle Eastern Dance is nonetheless very popular. While most often focused on a single performer, there are also group dances. Dancing frequently happens at Haflas or drum circles.

Types of Middle Eastern Dance:

• Persian Dance
• Turkish Dance
• American Tribal Style Dance
• Indian Dance
• Egyptian Dance

Some Middle Eastern Dance Terms:

Beledi

Apparently from the word for 'village' a Beledi refers to a particular rhythm and/or folk dance style

Taqsim (also spelled Taksim)

A portion of music where one instrument plays a solo, in dance traditionally this term denotes a slow dance performance with more subtle movements.

Tribal

A late 20th century movement in Belly Dance toward group choreography and rustic accessories

Turkish Drop

A dramatic move where the dancer falls to her knees, somewhat dangerous to the dancer's knee health.