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Candelabra / Shamadan
In my last trip to Egypt I had the wonderful experience to stumble on a wedding procession in the foyer of our hotel we were staying at. I had the privilege to see two dancers in the procession dancing with Candelabra or Shamadan.
Shamadan is traditionally performed at weddings in Egypt. The candles represent light, love and prosperity. The Egyptian phrase used to describe dancing with a candelabra is Raqs Al Shamadan, commonly referred to as Shamadan.
Buying a Shamadan
It is important to do some research before purchasing a Shamadan. Make sure you use a reputable vendor. The best Shamadan’s head piece is oval in shape, not round. This is because your head is not round and the oval Shamadans fit and balance better. You get them in different metals e.g. bras etc. There are also two different types of Shamadans, a nine candle and thirteen candle. A word to the wise, I have found in my experience that the nine candle Shamadans are easier to work with and in general made better and sturdier than the thirteen candle ones.
Taking care of your Shamadan
After use, always remember to clean off excess wax, and polish your Shamadan to keep it looking shiny and new.
How to get started
Firstly you have to adjust the Shamadan to fit your head. Most of them are adjustable. Carefully place the Shamadan on your head and start walking around with it. (Mind door frames and archways, because it might get knocked off.)
Once you are used to it and it doesn’t warp and wobble any more – you have it balanced – start by adding arm movements e.g. snake arms, and chest movements.
Gradually build up to hip movements and moving around whilst doing these movements, with your Shamadan balanced on your head.
Shamadan is an advanced prop and utilises burning candles. You should be an experienced advanced dancer before attempting dancing with Shamadan. It also poses a fire hazard when performed in public, so take the necessary safety precautions. Make sure there is no draping in sight as well as ceiling fans etc.
Remember that you can not see how high the candles and flames are above your head, so you do not know what you are going to hit or miss.
Make sure there is enough head space and no smoke detectors when performing with your Shamadan.
- Some tips for dancing with a Shamadan:
- Use smokeless drip less candles, they drip less wax than normal candles – less chance of you messing wax on your hair and on your outfit.
- Bend your knees slightly when moving around, they act as shock absorbers, making balancing slightly easier.
- To stabilise your Shamadan, glue strips of foam on the inside of the head piece for a better fit and balance.
- For more details regarding Shamadan or Candelabra, do not hesitate to contact me on: 073 088 7888
info@bellydancesa.co.za
We offer workshops in Shamadan/ Candelabra – for more details please contact us.
www.bellydancesa.co.za
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