Dance Of The Seven Veils Day

Dance of the Seven Veils Day is observed annually on January 22, marking a significant biblical event — the execution of John the Baptist. Interestingly, although the dance originated from biblical tales, it wasn’t named until Oscar Wilde’s 1891 French play “Salomé” was translated into English in 1893. This dance, with Middle-Eastern roots, resembles belly dancing. Performers typically wear a bikini top, pantaloons, jewelry, and sometimes finger cymbals, along with essential scarves.

The dance’s origins trace back to the biblical account in Matthew 14, where King Herod Antipas jailed John the Baptist for critiquing his marriage to Herodias, his brother’s former wife. During Herod’s birthday celebration, his niece performed a dance that pleased him, prompting a promise to grant her any wish. Persuaded by her mother, Herodias, she requested John the Baptist’s head on a platter. Despite his remorse, Antipas complied. Josephus, a Romano-Jewish historian, identified the niece as Salomé, albeit without mentioning the dance. This dance first appeared in Wilde’s English-translated play “Salomé” in 1893, with stage directions specifying “Salomé dances the dance of the seven veils.” Wilde drew inspiration from French writers such as Gustave Flaubert and Arthur O’Shaughnessy, transforming the dance from a group performance to a private one for the king alone. Richard Strauss’s 1905 opera adaptation further popularized the dance, which some productions turned into an erotic spectacle, like the 1907 New York production. Wilde’s play and Strauss’s opera influenced its portrayal in films, including the 1908 Vitagraph production “Salomé,” the 1953 “Salomé,” and the 1961 “King of Kings.”

Since 1907, Dance of the Seven Veils Day has been an unofficial celebration. Here’s a timeline for reference:

• 1891: Wilde’s “Salomé” play brings the dance to life.
• 1905: Richard Strauss’s opera adaptation debuts in Dresden.
• 1907: Dance of the Seven Veils Day is unofficially commemorated.
• 1908: The dance makes its cinematic debut in “Salomé.”

Dance of the Seven Veils Day FAQs

• Did Salomé marry her father? No, she married her uncle, Phillip, Tetrarch of Trachonitis, and later, her cousin Aristobulus after Phillip’s death.
• Why did Herodias’s daughter want John’s head? Her mother, Herodias, influenced her to ask for John’s head due to his criticism of her marriage to Herod Antipas.
• How much do belly dancers earn? In the U.S., belly dancers can make $3000–$4000 monthly, while in Egypt, they may earn up to $3,000 nightly.

Observing Dance of the Seven Veils Day

• Perform the Dance of the Seven Veils: Dancers or enthusiasts can perform and share their routines online or with friends. Traditional attire is optional.
• Watch an opera performance of “Salomé”: Many opera houses globally, including in the U.S., feature Richard Strauss’s “Salomé.” Check online for showtimes.
• Watch film adaptations: Notable films include the 1961 “King of Kings” and the 1953 “Salomé” with Rita Hayworth. These are available on platforms like Netflix, Amazon, or YouTube.

5 Interesting Facts About Belly Dancing

1. Belly dancing is asexual, performed by both genders.
2. Egypt is a hub for belly dancing excellence.
3. It incorporates movements from Mediterranean cultures.
4. Modern costumes originated in Egypt to appeal to Westerners.
5. Thomas Edison filmed belly dancers in his productions.

Why Dance of the Seven Veils Day is Important

• Historical significance: It recalls the events leading to John the Baptist’s death.
• Health benefits: The dance enhances flexibility and muscle strength and boosts confidence.
• Enjoyment: Dance classes offer fun and networking opportunities, with new techniques to master.

For more insights, visit findnomore.net.

What is the date of Dance Of The Seven Veils Day every year?

Beautybox

Shinhan Finance

VAY VND CPS

TECHCOMBANK CREDIT CARD IOS

DoctorDong App (Android)

JETTS 24H FITNESS

Xiaomi Official Store