A Primer on Middle Eastern Dance Styles by Soher Azar Beginners are often confused about the many dance styles in Middle Eastern dance. Our dance comes from many countries, so there is great variety. The wide range of choices is one of the charms. There are general characteristics in each style, however, which differentiate them. Modern Egyptian cabaret dancing is very controlled, elegant, refined and often includes some ballet.
Muscular control is emphasized and movements are small and internalized.
Egyptians must by law wear stomach covers, so many followers of the style do that also. An American dancer who dances this style is Shareen El Safy. Morocco dances Old Style Egyptian cabaret, eschewing the Russian balletic influences in favor of the original Egyptian dance. At the opposite end of the spectrum is Turkish style cabaret . Dancers are often very flamboyant, with large, earthy movements.