(19 Dec 2018) LEADIN:
A traditional Jordanian dance has been included in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
The country celebrated on Tuesday by putting on a  performance of the As-Samer dance.
STORYLINE:
As-Samer, the traditional dance of many across the Arab world, has been recognised by UNESCO.
And Jordan is celebrating this inclusion in the UN cultural organisation's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
As-Samer dance was among six practices added to the list during an international meeting in Mauritius in November.
The art form combines dancing and singing, and can include people of all ages, males and females, and is performed at joyful ceremonies, especially in weddings.
The band performing this As-Samer has participated in several festivals around the world, and their members live in the ancient city of Petra.
This inclusion in the UNESCO's list means that the Jordanian government and other academic institutions will have to support and maintain this art form.
Fahd al-Rawajfeh, an As-Samer band dancer, welcomes the achievement.
"This heritage (As-Samer) must be passed on to next generations. And Allah willing, choosing As-Samer to be included in the list of 'Intangible Cultural Heritage' will motivate us as an As-Samer band in Jordan to continue performing this art form. This way we will be reviving the heritage of our parents and grandparents."
Hanan Dughmish, Head of the Heritage Directorate, at the Jordanian Ministry of Culture, explains the dance form's significance.
"As-Samer is a traditional performance, an ancient art, and it is treasure. It has been performed in different parts of Jordan and it is folklore performed on different occasions, such as weddings or when someone returns from abroad. Everyone wants to maintain this heritage, and everyone is very happy with this achievement."

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