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After war, Syrians in Jordan find joy and jobs in dance
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Syrian (AFP/Khalil Mazraawi)
S
inging joyfully to beating drums, Syrian refugees who fled brutal civil war perform traditional "Arada" dances in neighboring Jordan, honoring their home culture and earning extra income.
Their performances, featuring traditional robes and whirling swords, have become increasingly popular in Jordan for marking festivities like weddings and parties.
"They add an atmosphere of joy to our celebration," said Fahed Shehadeh, who hired the Bab al-Hara dance troupe in the capital Amman to mark the graduation of his two sons from university.
"I am Jordanian but of Syrian origin, and I brought the group because I admire their dancing skills, music, clothes and their songs," said 55-year-old Shehadeh, celebrating with family, friends and neighbors.
Traditionally seen at weddings, the popularity of Arada -- rooted in the Arabic for a "performance" -- has had its songs modified to fit various celebrations.
A troupe typically consists of 10 to 20 dancers, wearing loose-fitting black trousers, white cotton shirts, embroidered vests, white skullcaps and a shawl wrapped around the waist.
Whirling swords
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