Dance philosophy
In dance I want to be myself. I am inspired by many dancers, however it is important to me that I express my own emotions and personality through dance. The classical silver screen Egyptian dancers who inspire and uplift me are -Fifi Abdou ,Namia Kaef, Katy,Souhier Zaki and Samia Gamal. and Tahica Carioca . (and more!) These amazing and beautiful women all had the confidence , skill, imagination and strength of character to dance their own distinctive style .I also love dancers like Ruth St Dennis and Isadora Duncan. These Western women created beautiful and imaginative eastern fantasy dance pieces, which served as a cultural bridge . praising the east, while acknowledging the western eyes that are looking.
Nature creates everything in a unique fashion. Every person ,snow flake leaf and animal is a one off . Bellydance and indeed any art form should be a way to express the beautiful uniqueness of the individual.I have always existed in alternative cultures and worked freelance. Like my family I am a bohemian. I strive to authentically reflect my moods and personality through all the things that I do. I mix with very diverse and interesting groups of people who can inspire and uplift me.
It repulses me to be involved with groups who try to force me into a square hole. I feel crushed by those who reel out rules and regulations designed to put a break on individuals expressing their truth. In any art form one needs the discipline of technique and training to function as tools for beautiful and artful expression. A poet for example requires an extensive vocabulary to fully express their thoughts and ideas. However poetry like dance should be a direct response to the interpretation of internal and external events by the poet.
I like to express myself through costume. I like to wear things that are unique , as well as traditional. What feels right to wear for a show/ piece of music and how it will inspire me to move and be, is crucial to the performance.
As a lover of freedom, a libertarian, an idealist and a creator. I can only feel good around those who don’t impose dogma and authority. ' As someone who is alternative, my way of being can be perceived as 'wrong’ by those coming from predominantly white collar work environments. The ant like workplace ideas on rules and conformity that have been taught to these people, serve as a lens with which they view their hobby(bellydance). My sexuality has been commented on in a neagtive way. I love to dance and if that makes me sexy so be it .
I sing the tune that I move too. I dream my own dreams .If I am not doing what I want to do, I will be doing what other people want me to do . I would rather I choose for myself.
Dance for me is a reflection of the uniqueness of my soul , my love of the divine , self expression, a space of liberation a way of expressing emotions .I can only do it my way.