When people think of belly dance, they often picture graceful women adorned in shimmering costumes. However, male belly dancers have also played a significant role in the history of this captivating art form, and some of my favourite current dancers are men!
Male dancers can be found across the Middle East, but are most common and accepted in Turkey. They tend to be more accepted when dancing folkloric styles, but there are still many male dancers that perform the more feminine styles. You’ll see many male dancers in the festival world!
One particularly notable male figure in the history of Egyptian dance is Mahmoud Reda, who was an influential Egyptian dancer, choreographer, and pioneer in the world of raqs sharqi. Born on March 18, 1930, in Cairo, Reda co-founded the Reda Troupe in 1959, which became renowned for its innovative approach to traditional Egyptian dance. He meticulously studied and incorporated regional folk dances into his choreography, transforming them into theatrical performances that appealed to both national and international audiences. Reda’s work not only elevated the status of Egyptian dance on the global stage but also preserved and revitalised many traditional dance forms, ensuring their continuity and relevance in contemporary culture. His legacy endures through the countless dancers and choreographers he inspired.
Check out a few of my favourite male dancers – Tito Seif, David Abraham and Ian Montez, who you’ll see all have VERY different styles!
