LEWISTON – The DC-Dabkeh Troupe, which performs traditional Middle Eastern folk dances, will perform at 7 o’clock tonight in Bates College’s Olin Arts Center Concert Hall, 75 Russell St.

The public is invited to attend at no cost. Betsy Nelson, a sophomore from Newton, Mass., will belly-dance during intermission.

Traditionally performed by men and women, dabkeh is the national dance of Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Palestine, and is found in Iraq under the name of “chobi.” The DC-Dabkeh Troupe is a new ensemble composed of students and professionals dedicated to preserving this tradition.

The leader of the dance, or “raas,” improvises the type of dabkeh being danced, and he or she twirls a handkerchief or string of beads known as a mashba while the rest of the dancers keep rhythm. Dancers also use their voices to show energy and punctuate the rhythm.

Dabkeh is typically accompanied by the “mijwiz,” a double pipe; “tableh,” drums; and “mizmar,” a single-reed wind instrument.

The troupe aims to raise a positive awareness of the deep-rooted Palestinian culture and to keep Palestinian culture and heritage alive through another generation.

“Dabkeh in Palestine is popular among all ages, but especially youngsters,” said Selina Jaber, a Bates senior from Palestine. “It’s a way to escape the reality of the Israeli occupation and the conservativism of the society.”

“Dabkeh is a dance of community, often performed at weddings, parties and other joyous occasions,” Jaber said. “In Arabic, ‘dabkeh’ means ‘stomping of the feet,’ and stomping, as well as jumping and kicking, characterize the dance.”

For more information, call 786-6135.