Disco Dervish

Our Nile Cruise included some entertainment such as a Belly Dancer and a Dervish. As long as I kept in mind this was showtime for tourists it was tolerable, but I have to say I was disappointed.
The Belly Dancer looked more angry than anything. I couldn't bring myself to take any pictures.  I've seen Belly Dancers at Greek restaurants. Those women were happy, loved their bodies, were proud of the culture and history they represented. 
Nothing of the sort appeared on the cruise's dancer's face. It didn't help that we were in the lounge with flashing lights and a loud, driving beat that was totally unsuited to belly dancing.

 For as appalling as that was, the Disco Dervish was worse.

He put on a good show. I'll give him that.

His costume came complete with  some lights along the bottom skirts.  When they came on he looked like a Christmas tree.

I took a few photos, but I was appalled at this bastardization of a culture and religious belief.  I'd wanted to see a real Whirling Dervish. It was a vain hope of course, because real doesn't sell.
Like the Belly Dancer before him the Dervish played to flashing lights and a driving beat.
I wanted a taste of the culture, not a headache.
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Yes, I've complained all through this post. I don't like to complain as there are good things in everything, but sometimes the appalling must be given its due.