The Doumbek -The Dance

Although the body movements used in belly dancing are authentic, the art of belly dancing is a Western presentation of Middle Eastern dancing. This fluid dancing where the movements are directly related to the drumming is performed not for the opposite sex as popularized in movies, but usually in celebrations attended only by one of the sexes. This simple drum is a central part of modern day Arab culture where family "get-togethers" are an obvious continuation of old tribal rituals. You can apply a simple formula: where you find two or three people gathered you can be assured there is drums, coffee, tea and sweets. Without a question if there are four or more people there will also be fruit. If there are ten or more it is definitely an occasion. Be it a wedding, birthday, religious holiday or a coincidence there will be a feast and  dancing to the beat of several doumbeks…for the men in one room, the women in another.