Traditional Syrian "Arada" dance - in pictures

Syrian Arada folk dancers from the Bab Al Hara troupe perform during a university graduation party in Jordan. All photos: AFP
Syrian Arada folk dancers from the Bab Al Hara troupe perform during a university graduation party in Jordan. All photos: AFP
Although the centuries-old dance is traditionally performed at weddings, Arada's popularity has led to its songs being modified to fit various celebrations.
Although the centuries-old dance is traditionally performed at weddings, Arada's popularity has led to its songs being modified to fit various celebrations.
Moutaz Boulad, left, leader of the Bab Al Hara troupe, assists members as they prepare to perform in Amman, Jordan.
Moutaz Boulad, left, leader of the Bab Al Hara troupe, assists members as they prepare to perform in Amman, Jordan.
A troupe typically consists of 10 to 20 dancers in traditional attire – loose-fitting black trousers, white cotton shirts, embroidered vests, white skullcaps and a shawl wrapped around the waist.
A troupe typically consists of 10 to 20 dancers in traditional attire – loose-fitting black trousers, white cotton shirts, embroidered vests, white skullcaps and a shawl wrapped around the waist.
The dancers also wear swords and decorative shields.
The dancers also wear swords and decorative shields.
The dance culminates in members spinning their swords in the air before engaging in ceremonial sword play.
The dance culminates in members spinning their swords in the air before engaging in ceremonial sword play.
The Bab Al Hara troupe during a performance in Amman, the capital of Jordan.
The Bab Al Hara troupe during a performance in Amman, the capital of Jordan.
Members of the troupe arrive at a venue for a performance.
Members of the troupe arrive at a venue for a performance.