What is tribal bellydance? It is a term that is use or associated with serveral belly dance styles or forms ...but here is a quick overview if you are not familiar with the form and its origins.
Tribal style belly dance is a variation of American Tribal Style or ATS bellydance. ATS has been made most famous by Caroline Nericcio and Fat Chance Belly Dance of San Francisco California (originating in the 70’s) and more recently by Rachel Brice of Belly Dance Superstars. The style is a fusion of Egyptian hip work, with Flamenco arm positions and Turkish torso undulations/stomach movements, hints of gypsy and Indian styling also can be seen in the tribal style variations. Dances are usually done in groups (duets, trios and larger choruses) in structured improvisation. Costuming is a fusion of Central Asian and Anatolian folk dance costume elements (silver jewelry and cotton or wool tassels) with East Indian Choli tops and full skirts with wide shalwar. Tribal Style mixes many authentic elements in a modern fusion danced to traditional belly dance, modern and ethnic music.
The focus of Tribal Style belly dance is group improvisation. Dancers learn a common vocabulary of movement and steps. This common vocabulary makes it possible for a dancer to be anywhere in the world and be able to dance with a tribal style troupe without having to learn anything new in advance. The use of subtle – almost unseen cues and a lot of practice help to develop non-verbal communication method that directs dancers during a performance. Dancers can create an original and unique performance that to the audience appears well rehearsed and choreographed, but that is actually being created as the music progresses. Tribal style movement of the body is an important aspect of form. There is a strong emphasis on isolations and controlled movement. Most specifically keeping portions of the body firm and motionless (as possible) while other areas of the body move with marked precision and repetition.
Many tribal style dancers focus on the personal value of the dance form. This dance draws on a sense of community - dancers find great friendships, comfort, and trust through the experience. Many decide to devote their time to the social and emotional aspects of the dance - embracing the opportunity to communicate through the body, through the music, and through the group dynamic. This sense of community appeals to many that explore the form – and is encouraged, and nurtured in classes and "open dance" sessions.
The neo-tribalist broadens the tribal circle of dance even further by blending differing styles and often collaborating with dancers from other styles creating unique and eclectic performances and dance sessions, but draw on presentation styles that harken back to the classic tribal presenations of Jamila Salimpour and Bal Anat. Taking our cues from innovative and inspiring dancers around the globe, neo-tribal pushes the boundaries of style and creates unlimited opportunities for dancers to explore and experiment while remaining in the frame-work of classic tribal style and the dance syllabus of ATS belly dance.