'Zembekiko" Dance

This image is of me on my 18th birthday party. I am dancing a 'Zembekiko' dance which is considered to be a traditional Greek improvisational dance from Greece with a rhythmic pattern. This type of dance is common in Greece and other regions around the world. Throughout history it has been known as an intensely personal dance. Overtime as I have become a Greek Dancing teacher I have learnt from different Greek workshops and other teachers that this type of dance is a man's dance. The reason for this is because the music has such a strong and heavy beat. If another man got up while the other man was still dancing it would cause conflict or possible violence, however today the dance etiquette has envolved. The main person dancing may pull another man up to dance with them. Men may also wait until the main dancing person stops and then begin to take over. Today women are allowed to dance this type of dance, but do not perform it as masculine, their moves are much softer and graceful. As the main person begins to dance the other people usually surrounded them in a circle kneeling either clapping or whistling as seen in the image. The surrounding people may also throw and break plates, tables and chairs or either place a glass of alcohol on the floor for the person to drink with out their hands. Usually this type of dancing is only danced on special occasions.