Belly Dance DVD Reviews by Skill Focus

Arms & Hands

Belly dance technique includes a range of arm and hand movements, such as snake arms, wrist circles, and hand flutters, which can be used to frame and accentuate the body. Arms and hands are often overlooked by belly dancers when practicing.  Lack of engaging arm and hand movements can make a dancer appear stiff, awkward, and unemotional.

Choreography

Belly dance choreography refers to a structured sequence of movements, steps, and patterns that are performed in a specific order and with a specific musical arrangement. The choreography can be created by the dancer themselves or copied from another dancer.

Belly dance choreography can be performed solo or as part of a group, and can incorporate a variety of different styles and techniques.

The choreography is usually designed to complement the music being used and can incorporate different rhythms and musical styles, such as classical Arabic, modern Egyptian pop, or traditional folkloric music. Dancers often tailer their choreographies to suit the dancer’s individual style, strengths, and personality.

Belly dance choreography can be used in a variety of settings, such as performances, competitions, and shows. It requires practice, dedication, and a strong sense of musicality and rhythm, as well as an understanding of the different techniques and styles of belly dance.

Combinations

Combinations in belly dance refer to a sequence of movements or steps that are choreographed together in a specific order to create a dance sequence. Combinations can be simple or complex and are often used in belly dance choreography or improvisation.

A combination can be made up of a variety of different movements, including shimmies, undulations, isolations, spins, turns, and footwork. Combinations can also incorporate different levels, such as low, medium, or high, and can be performed in different directions, such as forward, backward, or to the side.

Combinations are often used in belly dance to add variety and complexity to a performance, and can help to showcase the dancer’s technical skills and creativity. They can also be used as a training tool to develop muscle memory and improve overall performance ability.

Combinations can be taught in a class or workshop setting and can be tailored to suit the level and experience of the dancers. They can also be developed by the dancer themselves, as a way to explore and experiment with different movements and styles.

Drills

Belly dance drills are exercises that focus on specific movements, techniques, or combinations in order to improve the dancer’s skills, strength, and muscle memory. Drills are often repetitive in nature, and involve performing the same movement or combination multiple times in order to develop precision and control.

Belly dance drills can be practiced alone or in a group and can be tailored to suit the dancer’s level of experience and specific goals. Drills are an important part of belly dance training, as they help to develop the dancer’s technical skills, strength, and endurance, and improve overall performance ability.

Belly dance drills are often used as warmup in group classes or before working on new skills or choreographies.

Some common belly dance drills include:

• Shimmy drills: These drills focus on developing and strengthening the muscles used to perform different types of shimmies, such as the hip shimmy, shoulder shimmy, or flutter shimmy.
• Isolation drills: These drills focus on developing the ability to isolate and control different parts of the body, such as the hips, chest, or arms.
• Traveling steps drills: These drills focus on developing the ability to execute different types of traveling steps, such as the grapevine or the chasse.
• Layering drills: These drills focus on developing the ability to perform different movements simultaneously, such as performing a hip shimmy while executing a chest undulation.
• Combination drills: These drills focus on practicing specific combinations of movements and steps, in order to develop muscle memory and fluidity.

Drum Solo

A belly dance drum solo showcases a belly dancer’s skill and musicality in response to the rhythms and patterns of a drummer. It is a dynamic and exciting type of belly dance that can be challenging and rewarding for both the dancer and the musician.

During a belly dance drum solo, the drummer plays a series of complex and varied rhythms on a traditional Middle Eastern drum, such as a doumbek or tabla. The dancer responds to the drumming with a series of sharp and intricate movements, often emphasizing the rhythm with isolations and accents. Or a drum solo maybe choreographed to pre-recorded music when the dancer doesn’t have access to a live drummer.

Belly dance drum solos can be performed as a solo or with a group of dancers, and can be done in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern fusion. They can be a powerful display of technique and musicality, requiring a high level of skill and coordination on the part of both the dancer and the drummer.

Belly dance drum solos can also be a collaboration between the dancer and the musician, with the two artists responding to each other in real time and creating a unique and dynamic performance. The solo can be improvised or choreographed, and can be a highlight of a belly dance performance or event.

Floorwork

Belly dance floorwork involves dancing on the floor or in a low, grounded position. It is a dramatic and expressive technique that can add depth and texture to a performance.

Floorwork can include a variety of movements, such as rolls, crawls, twists, and undulations, and can be done on various parts of the body, such as the hips, knees, and back. The movements are often slow and fluid, and require a high level of control and precision.

Belly dance floorwork can be used in a variety of dance styles and contexts, from traditional to modern and fusion styles. It can be incorporated into choreography or used as an improvisational technique, and can be a powerful tool for storytelling and emotional expression.

Floorwork requires a certain level of strength, flexibility, and comfort. Proper technique and safety are also important considerations, as floorwork can put strain on the joints and muscles if not done correctly. Therefore, it is recommended that dancers learn floorwork from a qualified instructor who can provide guidance and support. Some dancers hide knee pads under their flowing skirts or harem pants.  The knee pads offer the dancer comfort, but can’t be seen by the audience.

Footwork

Footwork in belly dance refers to the specific movements and steps performed by the feet while dancing. Good footwork is essential in belly dance as it helps to create a strong and steady foundation for the dancer’s movements. Footwork is usually done while the dancer remains in a small area of the stage as compared to traveling steps.

The choice of footwork depends on the type of music being danced to, the style of belly dance being performed, and the dancer’s personal preferences and creativity. Some common footwork patterns in belly dance include:

• Step-hop: This is a basic footwork pattern where the dancer takes a step forward or back with one foot, then hops in place on the same foot.
• Grapevine: This is a sidestepping footwork pattern where the dancer steps to the side with one foot, then crosses the other foot behind it, steps to the side again with the first foot, and then steps the second foot to the side as well.
• Arabic step: This is a traveling footwork pattern where the dancer steps to the side with one foot, crosses the other foot behind it, steps to the side again with the first foot, and then brings the second foot next to the first foot.
• Chasse: This is a gliding footwork pattern where the dancer takes a step to the side with one foot, then brings the other foot next to it, and then takes another step to the side with the first foot.
• Pivot step: This is a turn-based footwork pattern where the dancer steps forward or back with one foot, then pivots on the ball of that foot to face a different direction.

Isolations

Belly dance isolations are movements that use only specific muscles or body parts, such as hips, shoulders, or chest, to create a fluid and expressive movement. Isolations also include undulations, which strung together isolations to create a ripple-like movement of the spine.

Hip work is the isolation movements that most people think of as belly dance. Hip work figure-eight movements, hip circles, and hip drops,

Layering

Layering in belly dance refers to the technique of combining different movements and isolations simultaneously, creating a complex and visually interesting dance sequence. It involves the dancer performing one movement with one part of the body, while simultaneously executing a different movement with another part of the body.

For example, a common layering technique in belly dance involves performing a hip shimmy while executing a chest isolation or undulation. Another example could be performing a snake arm movement while doing a hip drop.

Layering can also involve combining different rhythms, speeds, and levels of movement, such as performing a slow, flowing movement with the arms while executing quick, sharp hip movements.

Layering can be challenging and requires a lot of coordination and control over different parts of the body. It is often used in more advanced belly dance routines to add depth and complexity to the dance, and to showcase the dancer’s technical skills and creativity.

Shimmies

Belly dance, shimmies are a type of rapid, vibrating movement that is often used to add texture and excitement to a performance. Shimmies involve rapidly shaking or vibrating specific parts of the body, typically the hips, shoulders, or chest.

There are several types of shimmies, each involving a different part of the body and technique. Some common types of shimmies include:

• Hip Shimmy: This involves rapid shaking or vibrating of the hips up-and-down.
• Shoulder Shimmy: This involves rapid shaking or vibrating of the shoulders back-and-forth.
• Chest Shimmy: This involves rapid shaking or vibrating of the chest side-to-side.

Shimmies can be performed at different speeds and with varying degrees of intensity, depending on the desired effect. They are often used in belly dance choreography and improvisation, and can be combined with other movements to create intricate and dynamic performances. Shimmies can be layered on top of other belly dance movements and steps, which make shimming more challenging.

Shimmies require a certain level of control and muscle isolation, and can be challenging to master. However, with practice and guidance from a qualified instructor, dancers can develop the technique and strength needed to execute shimmies with precision and ease.

Spins & Turns

Belly dancers use a lot of different spins and turns. Each dancer may have their own unique style and repertoire of spins and turns. Here are some of the most common spins and turns used in belly dance:

• Pivot turn: This turn involves turning on one foot while the other foot stays in place.
• Chaine turn: This turn involves a series of small steps taken in a circular pattern, while turning on the ball of one foot.
• Barrel turn: This turn involves a full rotation while keeping the upper body relatively still and using the hips to create momentum.
• Egyptian turn: This turn involves a full rotation while crossing one foot in front of the other, and using the hips to create momentum.
• Turkish turn: This turn involves a series of quick, small turns on one foot, while the other leg is lifted and held in the air.
• Spiral turn: This turn involves a gradual rotation around a central axis, with the body and arms spiraling inwards or outwards.
• Snake arms turn: This turn involves using fluid arm movements to create a spiraling effect, while turning on one foot.

Stage Craft

Belly dance stage craft are the techniques and skills used to create a dynamic and engaging stage performance. It involves not just the physical execution of movements, but also the use of props, costume, lighting, and music to enhance the overall effect.

Here are some tips for effective stage craft for a solo belly dancer:

• Command the stage: As a solo performer, you have the opportunity to own the stage and draw the audience’s attention. Use confident and assertive movements to make your presence felt and establish a strong connection with the audience.
• Use levels: Varying the height of your movements and using the space on stage can add dimension and interest to your performance. Experiment with moving low to the floor, reaching high into the air, and using diagonal and circular movements to create visual interest.
• Engage with the audience: Connect with your audience through eye contact and facial expressions. Engage them in the performance by using gestures and movements that invite them in and make them feel a part of the experience.
• Use props and costume: Props and costume can add visual interest and depth to a performance. Incorporate veils, fans, or swords into your dance, and choose costumes that complement the music and mood of the piece.
• Consider lighting and music: Lighting and music can play a powerful role in creating a mood and enhancing the overall effect of your performance. Work with your lighting and sound technicians to create the perfect atmosphere for your dance.
• Practice, practice, practice: Rehearse your performance thoroughly to build confidence and ensure that you are comfortable with the movements, music, and stage craft elements. The more you practice, the more natural and fluid your performance will be.

By using these techniques and honing your stage craft skills, you can create a compelling and unforgettable solo belly dance performance.

Technique

Belly dance technique refers to the specific movements, postures, and muscle isolations used in belly dance. It is the foundation of the dance style and includes a range of physical skills and movements, from basic steps and shimmies to more advanced combinations and fluid transitions.  Belly dance DVDs that focus on technique often cover several skills, such as traveling steps, shimmies, isolations, layering, undulations, hip work, and arm work.

Traveling Steps

Traveling steps get the dancer to move about a larger area of the stage instead of being stuck in one spot. Traveling steps can also provide transitions between movements. These include steps such as the grapevine, three-step turn, and pivot turn.

Yoga

Yoga for belly dancers is a way for dancers to help make sure that they remain injury free and is restorative from the rigors of extended belly dance practice sessions.  Yoga can also help dancers develop the strength and flexibility they need to perform some belly dance movements.