Maghreb Dance

Morocco is one of the countries belongings to the Maghreb, situated in the north of Africa, very close to Europe, and thanks to its geographic location, was the perfect stage for the meeting of different cultures, such as Arabian and Saharan Berber.

The history of Morocco is reflected in its cultural diversity, encompassing various music styles, including Sabih and Gnawa, and on the other side various folk dances, which make Morocco a culturally fascinating country for dancers worldwide.

Raks Sharki is performed in 5 stars hotels in the large cities, but is not common in the family life of the women in Morocco.

The Moroccan Shaabi, is a musical style performed at weddings and birthdays; its lyrics talk about the everyday life in a ironic way. The movements of the abdomen and feet in time to the music are the main characteristics of this dance.

The Rai, a musical style originally from Algeria which typically has lyrics of protest, is popular in Morocco and some European countries. It mixes rhythms from the occident with Arabian singing, but in this style the songs are nostalgic, with subjects such as the life of migrants that have left countries searching for a better life.

The Gnawa has developed from a ceremony into being a music style. In a group performing this style, one of the musicians is called The Master, and ‘conducts’ the ceremony. It is performed within traditional families but it is also believed that the songs can set free someone that is possessed by bad spirits. Nowadays, Gnawa is performed in festivals and special events with the focus firmly on the music.