UrbanTurban formed out of a mutual love of the dance style known as American Tribal Style Bellydance (ATS) in May 2003 and are the only troupe in Sydney dedicated to performing and teaching ATS. The experienced dancers of UrbanTurban are Aniqa, Hilary, Ileana, Mina . In August 2004 the troupe expanded to include 4 more members - Chandra, Deb, Kim and Janet.

ATS is a contemporary bellydance style that was created in San Francisco. The style is performed improvised with movements based on set steps that have been derived from traditional Middle Eastern dances and other styles such as flamenco and Indian. It is danced to traditional Middle Eastern rhythms and also modern interpretations. Because of the improvisational nature of the style, it is very flexible performance wise, making it easily adaptable for stage, between tables in restaurants and bars, roaming at fairs or in nightclubs.

Costuming is dynamic and strong, reflecting the dancing style with its ecclectic mix of traditional, modified and invented tribal pieces.

The style is performed self-accompanied with zills (finger cymbals) and calls to each other while dancing through ululations called zhagareets. Props are also used, like swords, baskets, candles and veils.

The members of UrbanTurban are personally trained by Devi Mamak, renowned tribal bellydancer and Director of Ghawazi Caravan.

UrbanTurban are available for bookings for festivals, parties, weddings, nightclubs, restaurants, bars, corporate events – any celebration or venue looking for entertainment that is energetic, mysterious, colourful, different and good fun.

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