The word "creation" really means what it says when you think of the originality of presenting an artistic discipline that is so distant as regards its origins yet so near as regards its modern-day richness. Theatrical dance of Egypt is anything but experimental. It already has a worldwide reputation. The two indispensable foundations of this discipline are high-quality performances and teaching (by the "Tarab" school, established in Brussels), and the coming together of pupils of all nationalities. In encouraging original undertakings, cultural organisations cannot afford to miss this East-West rendez vous.

II The meeting of Orient and Occident

In a multicultural and multidisciplinary age, theatrical dance of Egypt is the perfect expression of the blending of rhythms, melodies and movements from a familiar or from an as yet undiscovered culture. Egypt is a country, which beyond legends, demands respect. A country many times invaded since ancient times, it has, against a background of oppression, been able to integrate foreign influences without betraying its own traditions. Indeed, in the artistic domain (dance, music, song, cinema) Egypt is even today a reference for the whole of the Arab world. Béatrice pays it enthusiastic homage.

III Femininity

The theatrical dance of Egypt also puts the accent on femininity. It reveals women's true beauty, a million miles from the stereotyped pictures of their bodies. And to show this on stage is a kind of counter-balance to the androgynous character of some contemporary creations. It allows those women who practise it (both professionals and amateurs) to express their sensitivity. Letting go, sensuality and spirituality, exuberance and modesty - Egyptian theatrical dance is about flamboyant femininity and a quest for pure beauty.

IV An artistic "sport"

A physical activity for all ages. This artistic form of dance is a blend of physical exercise and aesthetics. It could be called an artistic sport for the young and a cultural maintenance sport for the not-so-young. It can be a form of preventive or rehabilitative therapy.
Theatrical dance of Egypt encourages basic, or natural, movements. Movements, which our joints enjoy and help to form and animate the body. Many are spiral in form, as found in some martial arts, but done to music.

V Universality

Rural or urban, of the people or from the royal court, theatrical dance of Egypt crosses social barriers. Its human nature gives it universal appeal; it knows no elitism and its presentation makes it accessible to newcomers and a large public - a perfect example of openness and tolerance.

VI The Mediterranean cultural community

Euro-Mediterranean relations are ever-increasing. Art too can make a giant leap and build bridges between different parts of what the enlightened are now calling the Mediterranean cultural community.