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Browse by Class

Basic Belly  | Bellydance Basics  | Bellydance and Beyond  |  Bellydance Fusion Technique  |  
Bellydance with Setareh  |  Bellydance Workout  |  Bollywood Fitness  |  Dances of Persia and the Silk Road |  
Egyptian Bellydance - All Levels
 |  Egyptian Bellydance - Int/Adv  |  Egyptian Bellydance - Choreography  |  
Gypsy Dance  |  Hatha Yoga - Mixed Levels  |  Hot Hula Fitness  | 
Killer Drillz - Level 1  |  Killer Drillz and Choreography - Level 1-2  | 
 Nia |  No Rules Bellydance  |  Silk Road Tribal and Gothic Fusion |  
Tribal Fusion Technique & Choreography  |  Tunisian Folkloric Dance  |  Zumba Fitness
 

Browse by Teacher

Amanda  |  Dahlia  |  Farima  |  FusionBeatz  |  Hala  |  Marie  |  Melissa  | 
 Michelle  |  Na'ima Sahlah  |  Natika |  Pamela  |  Setareh  |  Terre  |  Vanessa


Ongoing Classes
Class Teachers

Bellydance Basics 

Learn and master basic moves for the beautiful artform of Bellydance. We will break down new movements each class, forming them into practice combinations and building those into choreographies. Key Near Eastern rhythms provide the basis for the movements and combinations so students will become familiar with the rhythms that underlie Bellydance. Each class begins with a thorough warm-up and workout to prepare the body for dance, as well as drills to improve isolations.  Geared for Beginners to Bellydance, as well as Intermediate students who want to improve dance technique. No prior dance experience needed. New sessions begin every two months, and drop-in students are welcome. Current session dates and topics listed on AmandaDancer.com.

Note: No class on Feb. 25.

Times:

Saturdays 9:30am-10:30am

Fees:

$12/class, single class 
$10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid, valid up to 8 weeks.
Cash or check only.

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Bellydance and Beyond - Mixed Level

Expand your knowledge of Bellydance... and Beyond!
This class begins with a 10-15 minute Zill (Finger Cymbal) practice to learn rhythms covered in that class. Similar to the Basics class, Amanda leads students through a warm-up and isolation drills, and teaches steps,  combinations, and choreographies relevant to the session topic. This class, however, takes students to the next level with layering of movements, incorporating finger cymbals when appropriate, emphasizing presentational skills, and working towards making the student comfortable with dancing improvisationally. Amanda also explores topics with a wider geographical and musical breadth, including brief discussions of cultural context when relevant.

Topics will include Oriental Dance (Bellydance) technique, including layering and improvisation; Near Eastern rhythms; Zill technique; Taqsim; Veil work; Drum Solo; Turkish and Egyptian Oriental dance styles; Upper Egyptian Folkloric styles; Turkish Romani dance; Khaliji dance; Sword dance; Folk dances of Turkey, Lebanon, Greece, and Armenia; Classical dance influences from Armenia, Persia, Central Asia, and Western ballet; Cultural context and awareness.

Recommended: familiarity with basic Bellydance movements. "Bellydance & Beyond" may be taken in conjunction with 9:30 Basics class, but students should have completed at least six months of Basics class (or equivalent) before joining this class and should continue taking the Basics class until they have completed at least one year in Basics.

New sessions begin every two months. Students may join any time during a session, but regular attendance is encouraged in order to progress in each subject and choreographies. Current session dates and topics listed on AmandaDancer.com.

Note: No class on Feb. 25.

Times:

Saturdays 10:30am-12pm

Fees:

$12/class, single class 
$10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid, valid up to 8 weeks.
Cash or check only.

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Amanda

Amanda

Amanda is co-owner of Halanda Studio. She has over 20 years experience studying and performing Near Eastern Dance, as well as 19 years studying Classical Ballet. She was a member of Alexandra King's Seher Dance Ensemble for five years, and performed extensively throughout California as a Folkloric Dancer with the UCSB Middle East Ensemble, a 60-member university music ensemble under the direction of Dr. Scott Marcus. Amanda has been a member of San Francisco's Hahbi'Ru Dance Ensemble since 1999. She also performed Turkish folk dance with the Yore Folk Dance Ensemble from 2003 through 2006, Algerian dance with Danse Mahgreb in 2004 and 2005, and Bollywood Dance with Naach Duniya from 2006 to 2008. Since 2005, she has performed extensively as a soloist throughout the Bay Area. In 2008, Amanda formed her own troupe, Karavansaray Dance Company, to present folkloric and Oriental dances of the Near East. 

Amanda specializes in Oriental dance (Bellydance) and Turkish dance styles, including Turkish Oryantal, Folk, and Romani Dance. She is accomplished in Oriental, folkloric, and classical dance styles from throughout the Near Eastern world -- from North Africa to the Levant, and from Turkey to Central Asia. Although her dance style is traditional, it often includes modern music, and always a sense of fun.

For more information, please visit Amanda's website: AmandaDancer.com

Hatha Yoga - Mixed Levels (Levels 1-3)

This Mixed Levels Hatha Yoga class is for beginning and experienced students. I blend a combination of vinyasa (linking one posture with another by moving with the breath), and Iyengar (emphasizing alignment with props) techniques.

Each class begins with some basic pranayama (breathing exercises) to condition or prepare the mind and body for focused activity. Throughout the class, fundamental concepts about postures and technique are reinforced. Each class has a goal pose like trikonasana (triangle pose), or theme such as backbends that stimulates a challenge for everyone. Stretching, strengthening and body awareness is emphasized. All classes finish with a guided visualization and savasana (the corpse or deep relaxation).

Please bring your own mat. Please arrive five to ten minutes early to allow enough time to park, sign in and get settled. Wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement, and do not eat one hour prior to class. You are welcome to bring your own personal props to make your experience more comfortable such as a towel, eye pillow, cushion, block, strap, etc.

Times:

Tuesdays, 5pm-6:15pm

Fees:

$15/class, drop-in
$13/class for multiple classes paid in advance. First class free excluding the Halanda Pass
(check or cash only)

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Dahlia Wist

Dahlia WistDahlia has been studying yoga since 1995 and teaching traditional hatha yoga since 1998. Her style is a combination of Vinyasa and Iyengar traditions. She is certified through Erich Schiffmann and Yoga Educational Seminars with Joyce Anue, which is recognized by the Yoga Alliance. During the first several years of her practice, she was influenced by Julianne Rice. Since then, she has taken many workshops and seminars to develop her understanding of yoga with a variety of instructors. Some of these teachers include Kali Ray, Lisa Walford, Judith Lasater, Seane Corn, Shiva Rae, Tias Little, Jason Crandell, Sharon Gannon and Jane Austin.

For more information, please visit Dahlia's website: DahliYoga.com

Dances of Persia and the Silk Road

Technique and Choreography - All Levels
Experience one of the world's most enchanting dance forms! Inspired by Persian poetry and miniature artwork, Persian and Silk Road dance combines swirling arabesques, sweeping gestures, shoulder isolations, footwork patterns and dazzling spins. The class will also feature contemporary, urban, and folkloric Persian dances , as well as dances from Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan and Armenia. As class progresses, appropriate props will be introduced and students will learn a structured choreography. Students also have the opportunity to perform for special events, shows, and festivals with Farima's dance troupe or Ballet Afsaneh.
Ages 15 and up.

Tuition Policy: Payments can be made by check or cash. There are no carry-overs between sessions. Classes missed in one month may not be carried over to the next session.

Times:

Thursdays 8:30pm - 9:30pm

Fees:

$15/class drop-in
$52/4-weeks, paid in advance at the beginning of the month ($13/class)
Special: If taking 2 or more classes with Farima, $96/4-weeks, paid in advance at the beginning of the month ($12/class)
No refunds or class credit for missed classes.

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Silk Road Fusion Dance

This fun, creative dance style celebrates fusion and experimentation, incorporating folkloric and contemporary moves from all over the world. Enjoy new skills combining Western ballet, jazz, hip hop, Flamenco, and Gothic movements with Eastern and near-Eastern regional styles such as sacred and classical dances of Persia, Central and Southeast Asia, India, Arabia, Turkey, Morocco, and the Roma (Gypsies). Gain confidence in basic techniques and improvisation with lyrical hand gestures, dazzling spins, snaky moves, playful isolations, shimmies, and traveling, as well as practicing facial expression. Combine skills into a structured choreography and have the opportunity to perform with the Farima Dance Company or the Ballet Afsaneh Dance Company. Ages 15 and up. 

Times:

Thursdays 9:30pm - 10:30pm

Fees:

$15/class, drop-in
$52/4-weeks, paid in advance at the beginning of the month ($13/class)
Special: If taking 2 or more classes with Farima, $96/4-weeks, paid in advance at the beginning of the month ($12/class)
No refunds or class credit for missed classes.

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Farima Berenji

Farima

Farima Berenji is an artistic director, performer, choreographer and dance activist committed to the preservation, revitalization and innovation of dance, art, and culture. She holds a B.S. in Health Science and a Minor in Art History and the Performing Arts, as well as an M.A. in Anthropology and Archeology with a special emphasis in Egyptian and Persian studies. Her love of dance has led her on an extraordinary life long journey. Over the years she has traveled to various countries learning, teaching, performing, and advocating art, culture, and dance to help bridge cultural gaps and create respect, love, and unity among people of all backgrounds.
Farima has had the privilege to study dance with master teachers around the world and has performed with various dance companies such as the Avaz Dance Company (directed by Dr. Anthony Shay), Sufi Masters of Kurdistan and Iran, Payvand Dance Company, and the Sunnyvale Performing Arts Group. She has been featured in many international music videos, commercials, and theater, as well as performing for internationally recognized music scholars, playwrights, and performers such as Nobel Ghashen (Jordanian Film director and producer), Pezham Akhavass (international acclaimed master of Persian music), Mohammad Ebrahimi (master of Persian music), Mohammad Nejad (master of Persian music), and James Robinson (flamenco guitar master) as well as various Iranian singers and film directors.

Farima continues her passion by teaching various dance styles, specializing in dances from the Silk Road (Persia and Central Asia), Middle East, Tribal Fusion, Sufi and Sacred Dances, Ballet, and Theater, as well as teaching Persian and Egyptian History, art and crafts, and cultural awareness. Farima is currently the artistic director of Farima Dance Company, a principal performer and an instructor for Ballet Afsaneh (a critically-acclaimed and internationally lauded performance ensemble that performs dances from the Silk Road), as well as a performer for Miriam Peretz Dance Ensemble, guest performer for Payvand and Chinese Performing Arts of America, and the Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator and Instructor for the City of Sunnyvale.

For more information, please visit Farima's website: FarimaDance.com

*NEW* Bollywood Fitness

Adults Bollywood Total Body Workout

Loose weight, get fit, feel healthy...the most fun way…the FUSION BEATZ way!

Get ready to join “THE SCINTILLATING BOLLYWOOD CARDIO DANCE PARTY” incorporating Boredom Busting Cool Workouts with Lovely Moves!!

Workout has never been this much fun before. 

Bring a set of 3-5 pound dumbells, yoga mat, and bottle of water to the class. If you need any additional items, your instructor will notify you before the start of the class.

Times:

Sundays 9:30am - 10:30am

Fees:

$14/class, drop-in
$12/class, 9-weeks pre-registered

Register:

online with FusionBeatz
Pay in advance, payable to instructor

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FusionBeatz

FPO1

Fusion Beatz, LLC offers a premier, high-energy, Bollywood-themed Dance and Fitness Program in the San Francisco Bay Area. Our goal is to remain a step ahead of our competition through an exemplary service provision. We expect our guests to have more fun during their leisure time. We will provide more fitness, fun, and value-for-money than anyone else in the area. A simple, yet unique, Bollywood dance style coupled with fitness routines will create a sense of ease of exercise while making it an enjoyable experience. Our operating credo is: “Dance… Have Fun And Get Fit”!

For more information and registration, please visit FusionBeatz.com, email fusionbeatzdance AT gmail DOT com, or call 650-918-7211.

Egyptian Bellydance

All Levels
Hala's approach to dance teaching, which has been highly praised by her students, offers the unique opportunity for people of all ages, genders, and skill levels to learn together in the same class. A dance routine blending the basics with more layered moves offers each student a chance to hone skills they already have, perfect the right posture and attitude, and learn new moves as well as new ways of combining moves. Hala explains the meanings of songs and stresses the emotional and spiritual aspects of using the body as a musical instrument to complement the music. Since dance is an expressive art, Hala encourages students to develop their own unique style and dance personality. Her teaching method is based on Eastern traditions, blending in her martial arts training to foster a healthy posture, technique, and form. Hala stresses valuable health tips that are crucial to using this dance as a healthy physical exercise without any long-term strain on the body.

Times:

Mondays 7pm - 8pm

Fees:

$69 for 6 weeks session starting Jan 30 till Mar 5 OR Mar 12 till Apr 16.
$16/class, drop-in

Register:

Register online HERE!
You may also register in class


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Intermediate/Advanced Technique: Combinations and Drills 
Hala's authentic Middle Eastern Dance for Intermediate and Advanced dancers explores different Egyptian, Arabic and other Middle Eastern regional styles including Saidi, Alexandrian, Haggala, Khaliji, Dabke, Persian as well as using props (cane, sagat/zills, melaya, veils, baskets, ...etc). We cover a wide variety of topics including:

The subtleties of the Egyptian Oriental Dance form.
How to choreograph your dances.
How to respond to different musical instruments.
Dos & Don'ts in the Egyptian dance style.
Entrances & finales.
Posture, rhythm & attitude, attitude, attitude.
Hala's combinations & techniques.
Drum solos
Arabic Rhythms & musicality for dancers.
and more.

Current session topics are on HalaDance.com.
Open to Intermediate and Advanced dancers only.

Times:

Mondays 8pm - 9pm

Fees:

$18/class, drop-in
$15/class, multiple classes

if taken with 9pm class:
both classes: $30/week, drop-in
both classes: $25/week, multiple classes

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Choreography & Performance: 
For Intermediate/Advanced students who are interested in performing.

In this class, we learn a full Egyptian dance routine and perform it.  We learn and practice the art of performing and experiment in casual friendly venues to hone our craft. This class is perfect for students who want to experiment with performing without the demands of being in a professional dance company as well as dancers who would like to start a performance career. Performing opportunities included!

Times:

Mondays 9pm - 10pm

Fees:

$18/class, drop-in
$15/class, multiple classes

if taken with 8pm class:
both classes: $30/week, drop-in
both classes: $25/week, multiple classes

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Hala Dance Troupe Rehearsal

Class and rehearsal for the Hala Dance Professional Troupe. Under her direction, the Hala Dance Troupe studies and performs dances from Egypt, the Arab world and the Middle East. They perform at cultural, international and Arabic festivals all over the Bay Area and were selected from over 115 dance companies to represent Middle Eastern dance at the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival in 2004. The Hala Dance Troupe welcomes all serious dancers interested in performing and authentically representing Middle Eastern dances and cultures. No one will be put on stage until they are 100% ready mentally and physically. No previous performance experience required. For details please contact Hala though her Web site (link below).

Rehearsal Times:

Wednesdays 7pm - 8:30pm

Rehearsal Fees:

Contact Hala for details



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Hala

Hala

Hala has been dancing to the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East since she was a child in Alexandria, Egypt. She has been praised for her authentic form, elegant style and immaculate rhythms. Captivating audiences with her passion and energy, Hala performs solo and with her troupe. Hala teaches and performs her native dance all over the world. Her dance troupe was selected from over 115 dance companies to represent Middle Eastern dance at the prestigious San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival in 2004. In 2005, she performed with master percussionist Hossam Ramzy in London, England and presented her native art at the Los Angeles County Museum of Arts in celebration of the King Tut exhibit. In 2006, she was elected the Vice President of the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of MECDA (Middle Eastern Culture and Dance Association). In addition to performing and teaching, Hala leads dance tours to Egypt, hosts dance workshops and shows with Master Egyptian and international teachers, conducts teachers training seminars and provides information, performances and assistance to schools, cultural institutions and magazines on the origin and survival of this beautiful art form.

For more information, please visit Hala's website: HalaDance.com

HOT HULA Fitness

HOT HULA fitness is a fun, new and exciting dance workout. It provides a “total body workout” in 60 minutes. HOT HULA fitness isolates your larger muscle groups, increasing strength and definition to your core with specific emphasis on the abs, glutes, quads and arms. Inspired by the dances of the Pacific Islands, HOT HULA fitness incorporates easy to perform dance movements set to the sounds of traditional Polynesian drum beats fused with funky Reggae music, resulting in a modern, hip fitness workout. All ages and fitness levels will enjoy HOT HULA fitness and you don’t need to know how to dance hula - just bring your smile and have FUN!! Join the hundreds of HOT HULA fitness enthusiasts toward achieving weight-loss and fitness goals. You'll sweat away the calories while having fun.

Wear workout gear shorts/tights/tank or a paero. Bring a towel and water. 

All Levels: You go at your own pace and no prior experience necessary. 

Times:

Sundays 2pm-3pm 

Fees:

$8/class, drop-in
First class FREE

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Marie Manila


For more information, please contact Marie at mmanila AT hotmail DOT com.

Zumba Fitness

What is it? you ask....

Zumba is the only Latin inspired dance fitness program that blends red hot international beats and moves from all over to form a fitness party. This class is made for all shapes, sizes, and ages, if you workout everyday or never. You don't even have to know how to dance. Just move your body and follow my lead. It's easy and fun! The reason is simple Every class feels like a party! Come join me and you'll see what I mean. Come try it; I guarantee you will have a blast and come back every week for more! I look forward to meeting you! 

Times:

Fridays, 7pm-8pm

Fees:

$20/class, drop-in
$15/class, 1 month pre-paid

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Melissa Key Nguyen


For more information, please contact Melissa at 408-483-9896 or at alicmelis AT yahoo DOT com.

Bellydance Fusion Technique

Bellydance Fusion Technique for Mixed Levels

This is a bellydance technique class for advanced-beginning to advanced students. Beginners are welcome to come for the challenge. Every month we will focus on specific isolations, walking isolations, shimmies, slow moves, and traveling steps found in a variety of bellydance styles.  We finish each class by putting those movements into practice in a choreography. The choreographies will incorporate the stylization of Tribal Fusion, as well as jazz and funk fusion bellydance. 

Times:

Saturdays, 12pm-1pm

Fees:

$40/month, paid at the first class in the month, no refunds for missed days
$52/4-class card, expires 2 months from purchase
$15 drop-in

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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No Rules Bellydance

No Rules Bellydance for Intermediate/Advanced Students

This is a technique and choreography class for bellydancers who like to break the boundaries of dance. We advance our technique with speed, precision and challenging layers. Each month we work on a choreography that incorporates bellydance technique with the stylization of jazz, funk, and modern dance forms. This class is best for students with a strong bellydance foundation.

Times:

Saturdays, 1pm-2pm

Fees:

$40/month, paid at the first class in the month, no refunds for missed days
$52/4-class card, expires 2 months from purchase
$15 drop-in

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor



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Michelle Reynolds

Michelle Reynolds

Michelle is a fusion dancer from San Jose. She has trained in a wide variety of bellydance styles, including Oriental, ATS, Tribal Fusion, and Modern Fusion. Michelle draws on all styles of bellydance, as well as Jazz, Modern, and Hip Hop to create dance without boundaries.  Her only rules are great technique and loving what you do. Michelle was Breakthrough Fusion Artist of 2009 and her troupe, No Rules Dance, was Breakthrough Fusion Troupe of 2009. She also placed 3rd in the 2010 Breakthrough Fusion Competition.  

For more information, please visit www.norulesdance.com.

Basic Belly

Basic Belly is a multi-level bellydance class based on American Cabaret style (with some fusion twists thrown in). Each week we'll go through drills and combinations, and then practice those movements in existing choreographies--from the repertoire of our associated dance troupe, Rakset Wadi Al Shems--or start using the movements to create new choreographies. Walk-ins are welcome. Come to expand your dance vocabulary or come for some low-impact exercise. Whatever the reason, feel free to drop in and greet your Wednesday evening with a smile. Topics rotate quickly, and you never know what you may learn! For more information, email Na'ima Sahlah at m_ellison AT yahoo DOT com.

Times:

Wednesdays 8:30pm - 9:30pm

Fees:

$10/class, drop-in

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Na'ima Sahlah

Raqset Wadi al Shams

For information about Na'ima Sahlah and troupe Rakset Wadi al Shams, please email Na'ima at m_ellison AT yahoo DOT com

*NEW* Bellydance Workout

Bellydance Workout and Basic Arabic Rhythms

We build some muscles and body memory here. We learn and train the most challenging Bellydance movements, to be able to dance and perform with power and confidence. Every class we learn more about Arabic music and rhythms, and also develop ability for making choreography and improvise, practicing short combinations and transitions. No prior training is needed.
Suggested attire: comfortable clothing which will allow you to move. Bare feet or soft shoes are ok. 

Times:

Tuesdays 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Fees:

$10/class, drop-in
$25/3 classes (1 day), 
$35/4 classes (1 month),
$40/5 classes (1 month), 
$90/12 classes (1 month)

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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*NEW* Tribal Fusion

Tribal Fusion Technique and Choreography

Tribal Fusion Belly Dance is a modern form of belly dance which has evolved from American Tribal Style belly dancing, blending elements of ATS with any other style of dance. It frequently incorporates elements from Popping, Hip Hop, Breakdance, 'Egyptian' or 'Cabaret' belly dance, as well as from traditional forms such as Flamenco, Kathak, Bhangra, Balinese, and other folkloric dance styles. 

The class is considered beginner/intermediate level. The first half of it we spend working on isolations, popping and locking, and simple combinations. Then we connect all the combinations we’ve learned into a choreography and practicing it for the second part of the class. No prior training is needed. 

Suggested attire: comfortable clothing which will allow you to move.  Bare feet or soft shoes are ok. 

Times:

Tuesdays 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Fees:

$10/class, drop-in
$25/3 classes (1 day), 
$35/4 classes (1 month),
$40/5 classes (1 month), 
$90/12 classes (1 month)

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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*NEW* Gypsy Dance 

This is a basic Gypsy Dance Technique and Choreography class. The class is geared towards beginners, but all levels are welcome! No prior training needed. Be ready to experience a lot of arm and hands movements, a variety of steps and theatrical acts during the drills and choreography. The music using for the class is mainly Russian, Hungarian, and Indian. Main style of dancing is Russian, which is known for its unique character, changing tempos, and foot work. It makes the routine look dynamic and interesting. Every class we spend some time on technique of floreos and manual percussion, which is unique for Russian style of Gypsy Dance. 

If possible, please bring a 2-circle flounced skirt (Gypsy skirt), as we will use the skirt a lot. For the first time, any wide skirt is good. Limited quantity of skirts will be provided in class. Be in time to get one. Bare feet or soft shoes are ok.

Please note new time.

Times:

Tuesdays 8:30pm - 9:30pm

Fees:

$10/class, drop-in
$25/3 classes (1 day), 
$35/4 classes (1 month),
$40/5 classes (1 month), 
$90/12 classes (1 month)

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Natika

Natika

Natika is an award winning performer, instructor and choreographer. Her dancing career started in Russia where she performed as a member of Dance Company, presenting Russian Gypsy and Indian styles of the Rom Dance. She also performed a lot as a Bellydancer  for concerts and festivals in Moscow. After she came to the U.S. Natika’s been taking Raks Sharki and Tribal Belly Dance classes for 2 years from many well-known teachers in the Bay Area.  Thereby her unique style of dancing has arisen. Natika is frequent attendant for the workshops in the U.S. and worldwide and participant at many U.S. festivals and competitions. So she usually has something new to offer to her students and audience. Classes and performances with Natika it’s always a lot of fun and energy giving.

For more information, please vist NatikaDance.com 

*NEW* Tunisian Folkloric Dance

Tunisian Folkloric will cover regional dances from the country of Tunisia, including props such as jugs, baskets, canes, and scarves. This class is appropriate for all levels, whether as an introduction to dance study or for advanced dancers/professionals who would like to spice up their repertoire with some Tunisian flavor. Wear comfortable clothing, bare feet or dance shoes, and a simple hip scarf or tassel belt if you have one. Performance opportunities available for those interested!

Times:

Fridays, 8pm-9pm

Fees:

$12/class, drop-in
$60/6-week session

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Pamela "Xatia" Ludwig

Pamela Ludwig

Pamela started dance as a hobby at 3 years old (jazz, tap, ballet) and only started to dedicate serious study to Modern Dance and Classical Ballet while attending the University of California, Santa Cruz, where she earned her Graduate Certificate in Theater Arts with an emphasis in Dance. While attending UCSC, she was given the opportunity to study ballet at  the Beijing Dance Academy in Beijing ,China, and at the Royal Theater in Copenhagen, Denmark. She went on to pursue a Master of Arts degree in History from San Francisco State University where she completed her thesis on dance history, focusing on the colonial era in Algeria and France. She then spent a year living, working and studying in Tunisia, where she fell in love with the earthy, vibrant folkloric style of Tunisian dance. She was fortunate enough in Tunisia to undertake formal study of folkloric dance from Cyrine Hajri, graduate of the now defunct Dance Department of the National School of the Arts in Tunis, Tunisia, as well as learning informally while attending parties and social gatherings. She now brings her talents and experience back to the Bay Area, where she is also an avid student of many other Middle Eastern dance forms, as well as a performer with Halanda Studio's own Karavansaray Dance Company. You can also see her perform Tunisian folkloric solos at various functions around the Bay Area.

Please contact Pamela at xatiadance AT gmail DOT com

Bellydance with Setareh

*Setareh* draws from many years of experience as a professional bellydancer to teach students The Basics of Bellydance and Beyond .... all the way to solo and group performances. She teaches improvisational methods, primarily focused on technique, and encourages each dancer to develop their own style and/or choreography. No prior dance experience necessary, and all levels of fitness are welcome. For more information, please visit  SetarehDancer.com.

Times:

Mondays 6pm - 7pm
Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm

Fees:

$15/class drop-in
$12/class for 6 classes
$10/class for 10 classes.

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Setareh

FPO1

Setareh (set-ar-aye, pronounced like ”Monterey”) is a professional Bellydance teacher and performer with more than 15 years experience. She teaches her signature techniques in group classes, private lessons, professional coaching sessions and at workshops. You can catch one of her shows at venues throughout the greater Bay Area.

For more information, please visit SetarehDancer.com

Nia

Nia is perfect for all fitness levels because it is a non-impact cardio workout. It allows for total body fitness. We move to a variety of music using moves from martial arts (like Tai Chi), dance arts (like Jazz Dance), and healing arts (like Yoga) -- yet no experience is necessary because the teacher guides you to move at your level. It is an aerobic workout that helps with the health of the joints and muscles, and at the same time relieves stress and tension. You'll experience familiar workout cycles from warming up to cooling down.  Shoes are optional. Nia is so amazingly effective that the movements can be done standing or sitting in a chair. It is recommended participants bring a mat, water, and a towel. For more information about Terre and Nia, including the different cycles of a workout, please visit  HelpYouWell.com.

Times:

Mondays 9am - 10am
Wednesdays 9am - 10am

Fees:

$12/class, drop-in
discounts available for purchase of multiple classes - please see HelpYouWell.com for details

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Terre Pruitt

FPO1

Terre Pruitt is a licensed Nia Teacher, White Belt. Her past dance experiences include Country Western couples dancing where she and her husband participated in dance competitions. Terre has recently removed her cowboy boots to dance bare foot, the dance and workout that is Nia. Terre is also a Certified Personal Trainer with the National Council on Strength and Fitness as well as a certified PiYo Instructor.

For more information, please visit Terre's website: HelpYouWell.com

Killer Drillz - Level 1

Experience the basic moves and techniques necessary to dive into the world of Bellydance.  Drill 'til your muscles BURN!  Or, take it at your own pace until you feel comfortable with the moves.  Students of all levels will benefit from exercises that improve strength, coordination and flexibility.  Basic belly dance isolations of the hips, chest, shoulders, abdominals, and arms will be introduced and broken down in a systematic fashion so you can understand which muscles to use for each movement.  Simple layering movements will be introduced as well as the basics of traveling.   Short combos at the end of class will pull together fundamental belly dance moves to create short, fun combos. These combos will include some favorite tribal and cabaret moves with a little Latin, jazz, modern and hip-hop flare. All levels welcome!  Please wear something comfortable, and a hip scarf if you've got one.

Times:

Thursdays 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Fees:

$12 drop-in
$55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months
$95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Killer Drillz & Choreography - Level 1-2

Time to take your belly dance basics to the next level!!  We'll start class with yoga-inspired stretching, and then dive into drills and layering moves. By breaking down simple movements and slowly building on layers, we will teach our bodies to multi-task and create more difficult combinations out of once seemingly simple isolations.  Find out how many layers you can add together to create a new level of challenge for yourself!  We'll practice slow and fast layers as well as traveling layers to create moves that will jazz up any choreography.  Learn to walk with your isolations while layering arm and hand movements to emphasize your every move!  The second part of class will focus on Fusion choreography.  This class will get you ready for performing, and performance opportunities will be offered on a quarterly basis.   Get ready to be challenged, and let's work our body and mind!  This class is suitable for beginners with some dance experience and challenging enough for professionals. Let's have some fun!!  Please wear comfortable clothes and a hip scarf if you've got one.

Times:

Thursdays 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Fees:

$12 drop-in
$55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months
$95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months

Register:

Contact instuctor directly
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Vanessa Kuly

Vanessa Kuly

Vanessa fell in love with belly dance in 2004 and has been studying intensely with some of the Bay Area's leading instructors and performers ever since.  She was first introduced to Cabaret style belly dance with  Sandra and was instantly hooked.  After studying with Sandra, she decided to explore the world of fusion and tribal styles by continuing her training with Michelle Reynolds and Ashley Lopez.  She has also studied Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Modern and Tap.  She likes to credit her dance and teaching style to all of her teachers as they continue to be huge inspirations to her.  

After graduating from San Jose State with a degree in teaching, she decided to put her teaching passion into action in the beginning of 2010.  There is nothing more rewarding to her than sharing her love of dance with people of the community and creating something beautiful with them.  She is thrilled to be teaching and excited to share her knowledge and passion with her students and fellow dancers.  In class she creates a very fun and relaxed, yet challenging atmosphere.

Vanessa is currently a member of the award winning professional belly dance troupe, Orchid Belly Dance.  Previously, she was a member of the award winning troupe, No Rules Dance.  Although Vanessa enjoys competing and performing, there is nothing that compares with the joy she gets from teaching.

Vanessa is a professional, ACE certified group fitness instructor and obtained her registered yoga teacher status with Yoga Alliance in October, 2011.

For more information, please visit OrchidDance.com