The Darvish stands as a vibrant testament to the power of self-expression and the pursuit of authenticity in Berlin's rich tapestry of cultures and identities. A queer Syrian who has transcended the conventional binaries of gender, The Darvish's journey from his homeland to the bustling, open-minded streets of Berlin is a narrative of courage, discovery, and artistic flourish. At 20, he left his family behind, seeking not just education in Germany but a space where he could truly be himself—beyond being just a man or a woman. Berlin welcomed him with the promise of freedom and the opportunity to explore his identity further, both personally and through the expressive art of belly dancing.

Belly dancing became The Darvish's medium of choice almost serendipitously, evolving from dancing at clubs and queer parties into a public celebration of his heritage and identity, encouraged by friends who saw his potential. Now, he graces stages as a solo dancer, performer, and ensemble member, with notable appearances such as the Phoenix from a Strange World in the premiere of "New Songs from Earth" at the Neukölln Opera. For The Darvish, Raqs Sharqi is more than dance; it is a home for his artistic expression, where he can "look to be the person you are - and have a lot of fun with it." His performances, costumes, and makeup serve as both entertainment and a visible stand for the LGBTQI+ community's concerns, showcasing the complexity and diversity inherent in every individual.

The Darvish's approach to costume and appearance reflects his journey toward self-discovery and authenticity. Traditional gender-specific costumes felt restrictive, prompting him to explore and create outfits that resonated with his identity and artistic vision. Whether donning a classic Dervish plate skirt, a jumpsuit adorned with beads, or a belly dance costume with chest jewellery, The Darvish pairs his attire with makeup and tattoos, sometimes choosing glitter high heels or silver overknees, but always incorporating long earrings and a fez (Tarboush in Arabic) into his dance outfit. Through his art, he embraces and showcases the beauty and diversity of Middle Eastern and North African cultures, deliberately moving away from colonial terms and towards a celebration of his heritage.

Six years of dance and activism have not only bolstered The Darvish's confidence but have also positioned him as a beacon of hope for those without a voice. His commitment to visibility and advocacy extends beyond personal achievement to the broader concerns of the queer refugee community in Berlin. Performing at significant venues like the Berlin CSD, The Pergamon Museum and Institut Du Monde Arabe, and co-organizing the Queens Against Borders events for Trans/Queer Refugees, The Darvish remains dedicated to supporting and uplifting those who, like him, seek a place where they can unabashedly be themselves. His story is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of art and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

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Artist: The Darvish
Photography: Joyce V Newrzella
Location: Tope Barcelona at The Hoxton Hotel Barcelona