Quote:
Originally Posted by Luna
... I completely understand reservations about hybridity. Belly dancing is sensual yes, but (at least I believe) that it is more about interpreting the music, dancing from the soul and sharing it with an audience. I don't think it is all about sex or sensuality.... But I think people need to be really aware that it is not in any way traditional and should be viewed in a completely different light.
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Yes, Luna - I think your experience/POV highlights the issue in hand - it is one of
identity and in this case it comes with a fear of association with the adult or even sex industry which (whether we like it or not) many people associate with striptease. Of course, there is a healthy debate in that association too.
It may be of interest to some to know that one of my oldest routines is a traditional
burlesque of a bellydance. It does not contain any stripping - why should it? It is a burlesque - a satire. In fact, the very point of this act is that it is a 'send up' of the often over-serious nature of bellydancers and the pointless, unflattering universal rituals of female 'beauty'.
I have been performing it internationally for over 4 years in it's current incarnation and over 7 in total and I have never received any critique from offended parties over it. In fact, bellydancers have been known to enjoy it.
You can read about my acts here.