Wednesday 31st August 2011 - Published by Kelly Jackson - Communications Executive
Exotic Bedouin Dance Showcasing in London
The Arabian Dance Theatre in Highgate, London, is launching an inspirational new show in October 2011.
Under the Sun is a modern take on the historic art of Bedouin storytelling. The show tells a story within a story, imaginatively demonstrated through an emotional journey of dance.
Under the Sun explores the conflict between traditional and contemporary culture in modern Egypt. The show presents a synergy of Arabic roots and folk movement with contemporary dance, while combining Bedouin, Arabic Folk, Oriental and Modern Arabic dance, all in a single production.
The story is told through the eyes of a Bedouin girl, Aisha, who discovers her talent to dance. Aisha was brought up in the Sinai desert, living life under the sun with her Bedouin tribe, when one day, her simple and peaceful life is suddenly turned upside down by a vivid dream.
This dream challenges her traditional values and gives her the desire to head for the big city - Cairo.
Tara Oakley, the shows producer, travelled to South Sinai in Egypt to study the life and culture of the Bedouins. Tara spent every day with local families; learning their traditional form of dance in depth, attending weddings and meeting a medicine man and tribal leaders.
In South Sinai, Tara found her inspiration; discovering how life was changing for the younger Bedouins and how modern day life brought many contradictions for their culture.
Under the Sun is inspired by an 18-year-old Bedouin girl that Tara lived with.
“Every day she was determined to be her own person by challenging people’s opinions and judgments to follow her dreams. This is still a difficult achievement for many female Bedouins,” said Tara Lee Oakley, the shows producer.
“She is proud to be Bedouin, but constantly made challenges to her culture; wanting to study, work, learn English and meet foreigners, wear trousers and marry a man she loved. She is a strong and truly inspirational woman,” added Tara.
Under the Sun is guaranteed to be Arabian Dance Theatre’s most exciting show yet. The performance takes place at Jacksons Lane Arts Centre, Highgate, London, on October 14th & 15th.
For tickets call the box office on 020 8341 4421, or visit www.jacksonlane.org.uk.
Arabian Dance Theatre are launching their new show titled Under the Sun in October 2011. - a pr2go story
