ZAAR BELLYDANCE

Zaar bellydance is a professional performance troupe based in the Yarra Valley, Victoria, who regularly perform throughtout Melbourne and regional Victoria. Zaar regularly perform at Cafe's, Festivals and Private Functions, creating a space for audiences to experience the timeless expression of the female spirit through the medium of dance.
Zaar specialises in a style of bellydance that has its roots deep in the Gypsy dance traditions of North Africa and the Near/Middle East, but is really a fusion of many dance styles. With influences as varied as Classical Indian, Flamenco and Modern Dance, seamlessly blended together, this is a truly multi-cultural dance form! This cultural fusion is seen not just in the dance technique but also in the global elements that are incorporated into the costuming. Dramatic headdresses, rich fabrics, intricate facial tattooing,and ornate tribal jewellery make an impressive visual impact. Dynamic and haunting Folkloric Middle Eastern music is embellished by the dancer's playing of zils (finger cymbals).

This constantly evolving dance style has been developed to its present form over the last 35 years by a succession of American dancers. It is now globally recognised as 'American Tribal Style Bellydance' (ATS) to describe both its historic tribal influences and its status as an exciting modern dance form.
Zaar bellydance does not rely solely on conventional choreography but instead use a form of structured improvisation, emphasising the connection between the women dancing. The troupe shares a common vocabulary of movements - much like a language - where new and inspired arrangements are created in each performance, freeing the dancers to be truly present in the passion and joy of the dance!

Ranging from an intimate solo performance, to a full evening's entertainment with the entire Zaar Bellydance troupe, you will be provided with an unforgetable professional performance suitable for any age group.


A Zaar Bellydance performance usually comprises between one and three sets, each of up to 20 minutes duration, with all dancers on stage at once. Options include:

• Whole Troupe; 6 or more dancers# Offers a complex and dynamic show created for the stage and perfect for special events, corporate functions, hens nights, live entertainment venues and festivals.
• Solo Performance; A professional performace suitable for any event.
• Duo/Trio Troupe; Two or three dancers provide the group dynamic so unique to American Tribal Style Belly Dance, whilst accommodating a smaller venue or budget.
• Workshops; American Tribal Style workshops - often booked in combination with a performance and popular for corporate functions and festivals. A workshop, in which participants learn some of the foundational moves and principles of ATS belly dance, can be an enjoyable way of developing motivation, connection and fitness within your group of people.

Whatever option you choose, your audience will be transported by the rich visual effects and vibrant music, transfixed by the graceful and synchronised movement of the dancers, and inspired by the strength and pride with which the women share this dance.

Tribal Style classes are also run regularly by one of the Zaar troupe members, Bianka Rich. For more information regarding classes, please visit o