Dabke: A shared tradition of the Levant. Dance is a beautiful and expressive art form. It provides a unique avenue for self-expression, allowing people to communicate their deepest emotions, ideas, and experiences without the need for words. Moreover, dance can also be a cultural expression that reflects joy, and unity within a community. Through Dance, these facets of dance will be the primary focus of this paper. Dabke is a traditional folk dance that developed in the Levantine region of the Middle East, which includes Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine and Iraq (Ahdia). Dabke is considered a Middle Eastern dance form, and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of these countries. While the fundamental elements of Dabke remain consistent…show more content… Palestinian dance is often performed in a circle formation, called "dawar," and incorporates traditional Palestinian costumes and cultural elements. Dance music plays a crucial role in complementing the dance itself, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. It often incorporates elements of traditional folk instruments, regional musical scales, and local dialects in its lyrics. By dancing to dance music, the dancers connect with their cultural roots and express their identity, reinforcing the sense of community and belonging. The music is characterized by its lively and rhythmic beats, typically driven by percussion instruments like the tabla, derbakeh, and mijwiz. The rhythmic patterns in the music align with the specific steps and movements of the dance, providing a strong foundation for the dancers to synchronize their movements. Using musical instruments such as oud (a stringed instrument), adds depth and richness to the music, creating an emotional and expressive element that resonates with the dancers and the audience. The lively rhythms, fast-paced melodies, and enthusiastic vocals contribute to creating a festive and joyful
