Grooving to the Beat of the Ancients: American Tribal Style Belly Dance

Hello there, dance enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the vibrant world of American Tribal Style Belly Dance, a unique blend of ancient Middle Eastern dance styles and modern American creativity. So, grab your zills and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and american tribal style belly dance.

What is American Tribal Style Belly Dance?

American Tribal Style Belly Dance, often abbreviated as ATS, is a group improvisational dance form that originated in the United States. It was developed by Carolena Nericcio in the late 1980s and is performed by a group of dancers who lead and follow each other in a fluid, organic way. The dance is characterized by its use of a shared vocabulary of movements, or "vocabulary," and a system of cues that allow dancers to improvise together without any prior rehearsal.

The Foundations of ATS

At its core, American Tribal Style Belly Dance is built on the foundations of traditional Middle Eastern dance forms like Baladi, Raqs Sharqi, and Tribal Fusion. However, it's also heavily influenced by American cultural elements, such as jazz, blues, and even hip-hop. This unique fusion results in a dance style that is both respectful of its roots and distinctly American.

The ATS Community

One of the most striking aspects of American Tribal Style Belly Dance is its sense of community. ATS dancers often form troupes or tribes, where they learn, perform, and grow together. This collaborative spirit fosters a deep sense of sisterhood and mutual support among dancers. It's not uncommon to see ATS dancers from different tribes coming together to perform at festivals and events, creating a beautiful tapestry of shared movement and connection.

Learning ATS: Cues and Vocabulary

The heart of American Tribal Style Belly Dance lies in its use of cues and vocabulary. Here's a quick rundown:

Cues

Cues are the language of ATS. They are visual signals, often given with the hands or body, that tell other dancers what movement to perform next. The most common cue is the "chest level" cue, where the leader signals a move by bringing their hands to a specific level on their chest. Other cues include shoulder, hip, and head cues, among others.

Vocabulary

The vocabulary of American Tribal Style Belly Dance is a shared set of movements that all ATS dancers learn. These moves range from basic steps and turns to more complex combinations and transitions. The vocabulary is constantly evolving, with new moves being added and old ones being refined or retired. This ongoing process ensures that ATS remains a dynamic and ever-changing art form.

ATS Costuming: From Traditional to Modern

When it comes to costuming, American Tribal Style Belly Dance offers a wide range of options, from traditional Middle Eastern garb to modern, fusion-inspired outfits. Many ATS dancers opt for a mix of both, incorporating elements like coin belts, harem pants, and veils into their costumes. The key is to choose clothing that allows for a full range of movement and expresses the dancer's personal style.

The Music of ATS

The music used in American Tribal Style Belly Dance is as diverse as the dance itself. Traditional Middle Eastern music, both instrumental and vocal, is often used, as are modern fusion tracks that blend Middle Eastern rhythms with Western instruments and sounds. The one constant is that ATS music must have a strong, steady beat that dancers can follow and improvise to.

The Benefits of ATS

Practicing American Tribal Style Belly Dance offers a wide range of benefits, both physical and mental. Here are a few:

- Improved Fitness: ATS is a full-body workout that improves strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. - Increased Coordination and Body Awareness: The intricate movements and cues of ATS help dancers develop better coordination and a deeper understanding of their own bodies. - Stress Relief: Like any form of dance, American Tribal Style Belly Dance is a great way to let go of stress and connect with your emotions. - Boosted Confidence: Performing in a group setting can help dancers overcome stage fright and build self-confidence. - Cultural Understanding: By learning about the roots of ATS and the cultures that inspired it, dancers gain a deeper appreciation for the world's diversity.

Getting Started with ATS

If you're ready to dip your toes into the world of American Tribal Style Belly Dance, here are some steps to get you started:

1. 1. Find a Class: Look for ATS classes in your area or online. Many dance studios offer ATS classes, and there are also many virtual options available.
2. 2. Get the Right Gear: You'll need comfortable clothing that allows for a full range of movement, as well as a pair of comfortable dance shoes or bare feet. Zills, or finger cymbals, are also a must-have for ATS dancers.
3. 3. Practice: Like any skill, American Tribal Style Belly Dance takes practice to master. Don't be discouraged if you don't pick up the moves right away. Keep practicing, and you'll see your skills improve.
4. 4. Join a Tribe: Once you've got the basics down, consider joining or forming an ATS tribe. This will give you a chance to perform, learn from other dancers, and be part of the vibrant ATS community.

So, there you have it, folks! American Tribal Style Belly Dance, a dynamic, collaborative, and ever-evolving art form that's taking the dance world by storm. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, ATS has something to offer you. So why not give it a try? You never know - you might just find your new favorite way to move!