Rhythms of Resilience: The Mayyas Lebanese Group Dance and the Everyday Struggles of Arab Women

The Mayyas Lebanese group dance, an enthralling and culturally significant tradition has passed down through generations, serves as a special lens through which we see the daily trials and unwavering strength of Arab women. This research paper delves into the intricate narratives of these women, illuminating their social, cultural, and political struggles. By examining the Mayyas dance and the experiences of its practitioners, this study brings to the forefront the concealed stories of fortitude, empowerment, and solidarity within the Arab female community. Employing a blend of qualitative research, ethnographic observations, and personal narratives, this research paper provides a perceptive exploration into the lives of Arab women and the profound role played by the Mayyas dance in their ongoing journey toward self-expression and empowerment, and how can art (dance) be utilized as a means to resist and counteract exploitation and oppression of women. The study also invites reflection through feminist perspectives, particularly those concerned with embodiment, agency, and cultural expression.