Belly Dancers from the Past ...

I was looking for videoclips on YouTube for my last post and came across some old videos of belly dancers from the past. Some of the videos made me grin widely, some I couldn't help but laugh and some 'wow-ed' me totally. So enjoy ...

Introducing Ms Ella Lola ....

The next clip is from American Memory site: American Mutoscope and Biograph Company, 1904. "Princess Rajah started as a "cooch" (an early form of belly dance) dancer at Coney Island in the 1890s. In addition to her dance with a chair, she also performed an Oriental dance with snakes. Princess Rajah was a featured act in the "Mysterious Asia" concession on the Pike at the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis. (Information from the youtube site)

This is a compilation of vintage dancers that somebody put together. Presenting the Vintage Dancers - Buddha Bar, "Tears Inshalla" ...

Belly Dance - The Early Years ....

This is the famous Samia Gamal, an Egyptian bellydancer. Lovely!

Another legend in the world of belly-dancing - Suheir Zaki in her 20s ...

Here is a very energetic Arab dancer in the 30's ...