Art of dance grows on you

BY NANCY KELLY

Kings County Register



When Danielle McTaggart talks about “the jingle factor,� she is not talking about Christmas. Instead, the 26-year-old mother of two is referring to her favorite pastime and passion, the art of bellydance.

McTaggart, who lives in Greenwood and is part of a military family, started learning about the ancient Middle Eastern dance six years ago when she was living in Ontario.

“I took a class and, before I knew it, I was hooked,� says McTaggart.

A bellydance teacher for the past three years, McTaggart says there are no real standards for Middle Eastern dance, which she says is the world’s oldest form of dance, and incorporates hundreds of styles.

“I am constantly working to expand my knowledge of the many styles - I talk to as many people as I can, I attend workshops and have an extensive library of bellydance videos.�

Bellydance offers “a terrific low-impact workout that uses most of the major muscle groups - and then some.�

Because it is predominantly low-impact, she adds it is suitable for seniors and for people who suffer from arthritis.

She also describes bellydance as an empowering activity, one that generates a spiritual connection between women and helps participants explore the relationship between the mind and the body.

“When women take up bellydance, they are often very self-conscious about their bodies, but dancing puts them in touch with their femininity in a new way. An added benefit is the heightened physical and emotional sense of confidence that comes with the experience.�

Bellydance has, over the centuries, morphed into a variety of styles in different countries. It has continued to evolve since it was introduced in North America. McTaggart likes to give a taste of the many forms in her day and evening classes, offered in Greenwood and in Middleton through the Nova Scotia Community College.

An avid dancer who not only teaches several times a week but also makes time to be a member of the Circle of Sisters dance troupe, McTaggart is pleased the dance form is gaining popularity in the Valley, noting she took on 100 new students between the ages of 12 and 76 last year. There are teachers now offering classes in Bridgetown, Kentville and Canning and, in Halifax, there is a studio that focuses specifically on bellydance.

Many have preconceived notions about bellydance, and McTaggart works to dispel those ideas, never pressuring her students to do something or wear something they’re not comfortable with.

“Exposing the belly isn’t required but, as women get more into it and comfortable with the movements and theirbodies, that is often a natural extension.�

While she encourages participants to dress in comfortable clothing, she sets aside special occasions for wearing colourful costumes: beads, coins, hip and head scarves and intricate jewelry.

Jane Beals, also a member of the Circle of Sisters, is a vendor of a line of Egyptian and Peruvian bellydance items. She agrees “even a small amount of jingle� adds to the bellydance experience.

McTaggart will offer winter bellydance sessions at NSCC and at the Greenwood community centre. While she is expecting many repeat students, she encourages just about anyone to give bellydance a chance.

“It’s a really fun and different way to get in shape and improve your health and, take it from me, it’s something that grows on you very quickly.�