Tribal belly dance is a type of belly dance that is influenced by Middle Eastern ethnic dance traditions rather than being rooted in a specific cultural tradition. Tribal belly dance is also referred to as “tribal style belly dance.” American tribal style belly dance (ATS), popularized by the FatChanceBellyDance troupe in San Francisco, California, is probably the largest school within the tribal belly dance community.
Dancers began mixing their styles in the 1960s and 1970s, incorporating moves and techniques from various belly dance traditions to create their own distinct style. The term “tribal” refers to the fact that many of the dance techniques are derived from ethnic tribal dancing, which is extremely diverse and varied. In the 1980s, FatChanceBellyDance created an American tribal style, which has since become one of the most widely taught tribal styles.
Tribal belly dance is not strictly authentic, according to purists, because it does not come from a specific school of belly dance. Egyptian-style cabaret dancing, nomadic tribal dancing, and a variety of other Middle Eastern dance forms are all incorporated into tribal style belly dance, and dancers may also incorporate moves from other regions such as Polynesia. Some people worry that because tribal belly dance is a mash-up of styles, it gives the wrong impression of belly dancing culture, as some of the moves and costumes are suggestive.
Tribal belly dance is, in essence, a free-form fantasy vision of what belly dancing can be. Although a few individual solos may be included in a group performance, it typically focuses on performing as a group rather than offering solos. On hand cymbals known as zills, one dancer typically leads, with others following and accompanying the dance. Dancers learn sets of steps and moves rather than choreographing entire dances in tribal belly dance, which is characterized by an improvisational style.
Long, flowing skirts, minimal tops, and jingling jewelry in the form of necklaces, belts, and bracelets are common features of tribal belly dance costumes. Tribal belly dancing necessitates athletic ability, as dancers must be able to perform a wide range of moves, as well as stamina, as good performances can last for several hours, but people of all body types are welcome to attend tribal belly dancing classes and performances.