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Turkish Romani
Sulukule is a legendary district of Istanbul known for its Romani musicians and dancers. Early travelers to the region wrote of their famous "suggestive contortions, a good deal of stomach play and twisting of the body, falling upon the knees with the trunk held back to the extent that the spectators were encouraged to put a coin on their forehead. Every muscle and both shoulders were made to quiver and all this was alternated with graceful poses and feminine affectations."
- from Origins of Oriental Dance

Karsilama - Expressing passion and joy, this lively dance in the Turkish 9/8 rhythm is characterized by playful hand gestures that often mimic events from daily life. Dancers also gesture with their full skirts for emphasis and the use of skirt work is highlighted here for the concert stage.