important so that it is identifiably belly dance, to prevent
injury and long-term wear and tear, and to match troupe
members’ movements in choreography. Completing your
movements by following through and not cutting them
short aid in doing them correctly as does proper posture. Not
doing the “now I did this combo” jumping to or stopping for
“now I did this move” helps avoid jerky transitions. Make
connections in flow with the music.
Your technique should demonstrate that you understand
the mechanics of the movement, where it comes from and
what music it best matches. For example, doing a big sloppy
three-quarter shimmy during a quiet violin piece is probably
not conducive to the performance you want to deliver. Your
technique should also show that you understand or at least
feel comfortable with the different rhythms and how your
movement should complement and meld with the different
instruments as part of the music.
Taking classes and workshops with good teachers helps
promote good study habits to build on. Getting guidance
on the correct way to execute moves in real time is most
helpful. While live is best, there are some good alternatives,
including live online classes, DVDs, and other assorted
media. Repetition and regular practice hone your skills.
Watch recordings of your performance and critique your
technique (what looked great, what needs improvement,
don’t be too harsh on yourself as long as you work to correct
poor technique). Along with ensuring quality in the other
aspects of your dance performance, be sure your technique
is sharp and clean, recognizable, and has smooth transitions
for your best performance!
NIZANA
Nizana
has
been
instructing,
performing, studying, choreographing,
troupe directing, event producing and
otherwise being engaged in the Florida
(where she resides), Washington (State),
Hawaii, and Bay Area California dance
communities. A published author, she
is a long-time writer for “The Belly Dance Chronicles.” Nizana and her
“occasional troupe” (the rest of the troupe lives in WA), the Desert Silk
Dance Company, can be found on Facebook and events on one coast or
another! Photo by Robert Akins Taylor.
January 2020
The Belly Dance Chronicles
57