Classical Egyptian Cabaret/RAKS SHARKI
This style of dance was pioneered by the beloved Egyptian dancer, Tahia Cariocca. She danced in Cairo in the 1930's. Then Madame Nagwa Foaud took over where she left off. Classical Egyptian Cabaret is an elegant, strong, graceful and highly choreographed style. The use of a large stage space is best, and the dancer wearing the most elaborate Madame Abla gown or full costume makes this a truly beautiful experience. She is always accompanied by a large orchestra. Many great Egyptian dancers such as, Fifi Abdul, Mona Saaid, Nelli Fouad, Hanan, and Lucy use this formula to begin a long concert. Cabaret is a "City Style", very Cairo, Beirut, Casablanca, etc. It is a very strong, showy and large dance style and is very elegant. I use it upon entering my dance space, as my eye catching opener. I then proceed to go into other styles and rhythms with the orchestra. Basically a dancer has only five to ten minutes to "capture" her audience and keep them mesmerized. |
