#originalcharacters

Raqs Sharqi and the Caravan

There are also roles for characters who express themselves through dance traditions inspired by Raqs Sharqi, Baladi, Shaabi, Saidi, Nubian forms, Ghawazee heritage, Khaleegy, Iraqi Kawleeya, Turkish Oriental and Turkish Romani styles, American Cabaret, American Tribal Style, Improvisational Tribal Style, Tribal Fusion, Gothic and Contemporary Fusion approaches, Andalusian influences, Persian Classical Fusion, Lebanese and Egyptian Oriental work, Moroccan Shikhat, Tunisian and Algerian traditions, Central Asian influences such as Uzbek and Tajik movement vocabularies, along with modern experimental fusions that blend these practices with elements drawn from hip hop, flamenco, ballet, samba or contemporary floorwork.

Within the world of this story, which is set in a fantasy medieval environment, these names serve as reference points for readers and performers rather than literal cultural labels. In the Desert Realm, these forms would naturally have their own names, histories and meanings that reflect the languages and traditions of the setting. The intention is to honour the artistry, discipline and cultural depth that these real world dance lineages represent while offering performers the freedom to interpret their characters through styles that feel authentic, expressive and respectful.

The term “belly dance” is used only as an accessible placeholder for those who may be unfamiliar with the wider vocabulary. Anyone with an interest in portraying such a character is welcome, and there are many opportunities throughout the project for dancers to contribute their style, creativity and interpretation in a way that enriches the world and respects the art.

Again, please complete the Google Form and I will email you all the relevant links to learn more about the project, this includes the Discord Server dedicated to the project.

Thank you for taking the time to read through this information and for considering whether this project resonates with you. I appreciate your interest and the care you bring to your own creative practice. I look forward to the possibility of hearing from you, and I hope that, if our paths align, we can collaborate with clarity, respect and honesty in a way that supports both the story and the artistry of everyone involved.

Regards.

Matt.