Zambra

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The Zambra, also known as the Zambra Mora is a flamenco dance performed by the Roma people (Gitanos) of Granada which is believed to have evolved from earlier Moorish dances and has some similarities to belly dancing. In Maghrebi Arabic spoken in Morocco, "zambra" means party. The Zambra dance forms part of the wedding ceremonies at Gitano weddings, and gypsies perform it for tourists in the Andalucian Sacromonte Caves and Hills. It was outlawed at one time in history and became known as the "Forbidden Dance". In modern times it has been espoused by flamenco dancers Carmen Amaya, La Chunga, Pilar Lopez and Puela Lunaris. It is danced barefoot with finger cymbals, the blouse is tied under the bust and the skirt is tight around the hips, then flares out and has a ruffle at the end.