"Speak to me of Dance and describe the various kinds that be. Describe as well the desirable qualities a dancer should manifest."
The person so invoked replied: "Oh Prince of the Faithful,
the peoples of various regions and countries differ in the manner of dancing
as much as the people of Khorasan differ from other peoples. The rhythmic
modes of dancing are eight in kind: al-khafif, al-hazaj, al-ramal, khafif
al-ramal, khafif al-thaqil al-thani, thaqil al-thakil al-thani, khafif
al-thaqil al-awwal and thaqil al-thaqil al-awwal. The dancer must possess
qualities of temperament, qualities of physique and qualities which are
acquired by practice. The qualities of temperament are: vivacity of spirit,
sense of rhythm, and cheerfulness in the performance of the art. The qualities
of physique are: a long neck, side locks, expressiveness, a natural sway,
a slim and graceful waist, vivaciousness, a well-proportioned figure, accomplishment
in the art of swirling the hem of the robe, control of breathing and rests,
patience in endurance, agile feet and flexible toes to perform the harmonious
movements of the different dances, from the camel dance to the ball dance,
flexible limbs, speed in whirling and soft curves. The qualities acquired
by practice are: the ability to perform a variety of dances, to swing the
body with grace while the feet remain firm about their turning point and
while equal balance is maintained between right and left. Dance steps can
take two forms: one on the beat and the other off the beat. The dancer
must keep to the movement in which the dancer excels and let it rise when
on the beat, and drop when not. The best is that which comes naturally
and harmonizes with love and beauty."
International Dance Discovery
108 1/2 E. Kirkwood Ave. #5
Bloomington, IN 47408