Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on March 2010

Belly dance shows are pretty easy to come by in Tokyo, but few can compare to the spectacle of Amani. Born Angel Ayoub, the Lebanese dancer is one of the world’s foremost practitioners of the art, with a repertoire that extends across the Middle East, taking in the dance styles of Armenia, Morocco and Baladi. This medley of forms, together with Amani’s many dazzling costumes, puts her performances in a different league to other belly dance displays. If you can forgive the clunky title, “Orjouwan: Amani’s ~color of oriental dance~” promises to offer a truly authentic Middle Eastern experience.

Orjouwan: Amani’s Color of Oriental Dance
Performance by renowned Lebanese belly dancer Amani. March 9-10, 7pm, ¥7,000 (A)/¥10,000 (S)/¥14,000 (SS). Shibuya C.C. Lemon Hall. Tel: Sunrise Promotion 0570-00-3337.