Where do I start??
When you first begin, we welcome students to start with out New Student Special. You will have 3 private lessons and your instructor introduce you to our studio and answer any questions you have as well as start to teach you new moves. On the Special you will also have access to any of our group classes and the instructor will guide you as to which classes are best for you to take. Once you are comfortable, you will be able to pick and choose which classes fit your schedule best, and pick a package accordingly.
> If you have taken belly dancing before, we recommend you meet with an instructor for a consultation so we can advise you as to which level class you should join.
Where is your studio located?
Inside the Avenues Mall, on the 2nd floor by Belk.
How often are classes and how long is each class?
Group Fitness classes are daily and we have them in the daytime and the evening. Most of our fitness classes are an hour long.
If I miss a class will it set me back?
Our classes are open level, so if you miss one, it's okay! Classes that focus on choreography as well as technique is also okay to miss one, but don't make it a habit! You can also take a private lesson for more help if you feel you are too far behind.
Is Belly Dancing expensive in terms of buying special shoes, outfits or anything like that?
The prices definitely vary for costumes and such, but you do not need to wear one in class! You can purchase a coin belt, or simply just a scarf to wrap around your hips. There are no requirements to buy anything additional to participate. For special classes that include props such as veils or Zills finger cymbals, your teacher will provide you with resources on where you can purchase them for a fair price.
What are the benefits from Belly Dancing?
There are many benefits to Belly Dancing that motivate students to dance. Increase in self confidence, meeting people and making new friends, belly dancing is a great exercise; you will lose weight and gain muscle, acquire more grace and poise, overcome shyness, relieve stress, it's a great form of entertainment, relaxation, cultural interests, more fun and enjoyment out of social life, belong to a group with similar interests and purpose, and it can increase your dance-confidence, not just in belly dance, but all forms of dance.
How old do you have to be to participate?
As of now, classes are open to all ages 13 years of age and older. All students are in the same dance area. We also have kids classes on Saturday mornings.
Are there any live performances that we will get to do?
Every month the students have opportunities to do a live performance. You are not required to, but are certainly encouraged to!
Do I have to have any prior experience to join your class?
Belly dancing is based on natural body movements. Of course, as anything new it is not by any means "easy". Isolating movements throughout the body is very important to learn, and once you get more advanced you learn to layer the moves. But, don't think you cannot learn because you have never danced before. Let this be your chance to bring out the dancing goddess in you.
Where does Belly Dance come from?
The exact origin of belly dancing is unknown. Although, there is more historical evidence to support that belly dancing originated as a fertility dance; symbolizing a woman's peak fertility as well as the movements used to ease childbirth. There are several techniques and styles of belly dancing, associated to different regions of the world. The earliest performances date back to ancient Egypt where priestesses would incorporate the dance as part of their prayer rituals. Today, the dance has taken on several forms and is widely practiced. The term "Belly Dance" was coined at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893, when the dancer called "Little Egypt" performed.