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Browse by Class

 Bellydance Basics  | Bellydance and Beyond  |  Bellydance Cardio and Combos  |  Bellydance Choreography and Interpretation  |  Bellydance Essentials  |  Bellydance with Setareh  |  Dances of Persia and the Silk Road  |  
Egyptian Bellydance - All Levels
 |  Egyptian Bellydance - Int/Adv  |  Egyptian Bellydance - Choreography  |  
Floorwork and Flexibility: Tribal Fusion Choreography Series  |  Hot Hula Fitness  |
 Killer Drillz - Level 1
 |  Killer Drillz and Choreography - Level 1-2  |  Nia  |  Power Flow Yoga  | 
"Queen of Props" Bellydance  |  Sunday Morning Flow  |  Tribal Fusion Technique and Choreography  | 
 Turkish Bellydance  |  Zumba with Lili   

Browse by Teacher

Amanda  | Courtney  |  Delanie  |  Eme  |  Farima  |  Hala  |  Jill  |  Lili  | 
Marie  |  Michelle   |  Natika |  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. 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.

Times:

Saturdays 9:30am - 10:30am

Fees:

$12/class, single class 
$10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid, valid for 6 months
Cash or check only

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Bellydance and Beyond - Mixed Level

Expand your knowledge of Bellydance... and Beyond!
Similar to the Basics class, Amanda leads students through a warm-up and isolation drills, and teaches steps and  combinations relevant to the session topic. This class, however, takes students to the next level with layering of movements, incorporating finger cymbals, learning full choreographies, practicing 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 any choreographies. Current session dates and topics listed on AmandaDancer.com

Times:

Saturdays 10:30am - 12pm

Fees:

$12/class, single class 
$10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid, valid for 6 months
Cash or check only

Register:

Click here to register
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

Bellydance Choreography and Interpretation  

Now that you've learned the basics, learn how to put bellydance to music! Bellydance is deeply rooted in the culture and music of the Middle East and this class will explore different choreographies from around the region to help you prepare and polish your performances. This is an intermediate level class, and dancers should have a good base of knowledge of bellydance isolations when they attend. We may use veils or finger cymbals, depending on the choreography we're learning. Class will consist of a warmup, basic isolation drills, and choreography. Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move and a simple hip scarf if you have one. Bare stomach is optional. Drop-in students are always welcome! 

Times:

Wednesdays 8:30pm-9:30pm

Fees:

$15/class, drop-in
$12/class, 4 classes pre-paid, valid for 2 months from time of purchase

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Bellydance Essentials

Learn the graceful art of Bellydance while building flexibility, agility and strength! This class will focus on building a vocabulary of movements and isolations, as well as muscle control. Each class will begin with a thorough warm-up and stretches. We'll work through the major and minor muscle isolations, improving agility and quality of movement, and we'll put those isolations into action with fun combinations using American Cabaret styling and interpretation. This class is great for beginners who want to learn Bellydance essentials and for more experienced Bellydance students who want to drill their technique and explore the American Cabaret style. Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move and a simple hip scarf if you have one. Bare stomach is optional. Drop-in students are always welcome! 

Times:

Saturdays 12pm-1:15pm

Fees:

$15/class, drop-in
$12/class, 4 classes pre-paid, valid for 2 months from time of purchase.

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Courtney

CourtneyCourtney is an award-winning Bellydancer based in San Jose. She has been dancing her entire life, studying ballet, jazz, and modern dance, but she found Middle Eastern dance to be her true artistic calling. With extensive dance training and a B.A. in Music from Columbia University, Courtney draws from a strong foundation as she continues her study of Middle Eastern dance.
Her classes emphasize proper muscular technique, historical and cultural context, and musicality. She believes that Bellydance is for everyone and fosters a nurturing and fun class environment. Courtney can be seen performing weekly in local restaurants and nightclubs.

For more information, please visit CourtneyBellydance.com

Power Flow Yoga

Power Flow Yoga is a dynamic Vinyasa practice that focuses on strength and flexibility to challenge the body utilizing classic and innovative Ashtanga yoga postures.  It is a vigorous class geared to actively stretch and strengthen the muscles simultaneously while linking the breath with movement.  Each class is different with a focus on specific postures and parts of the body.  It is an all-level class, although a general level of fitness is advised.  Be prepared to move!

Times:

Saturdays, 8am - 9:15am

Fees:

$15/class, drop-in
$20/couple if you bring a friend for the first time to the studio

Register:     Click here to register
    Pay in class, payable to instructor
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Delanie Booton

Delanie

Delanie fell in love with yoga in 2003 and has practiced regularly ever since.  She received her Yoga Alliance instructor certification in 2008 through The Joy of Yoga teacher training program.  She teaches power vinyasa flow-based classes which are both vigorous and deliberate.  Delanie is also a Balanced Body trained Pilates instructor and incorporates functional anatomy in all of her sessions.  She has studied closely with Rusty Wells, Janet Stone, Kent Bond, Jennifer Prugh, Tom McCook, and Lisa Graham.  She teaches yoga and both Pilates mat and Reformer at several corporate locations in the Bay Area.  In addition, Delanie is a Certified Massage therapist and has had a private practice for the past 10 years.  She draws from her hands-on experience with the body and interest in anatomy to promote proper body mechanics throughout all of her classes.

For more information, please contact Delanie at delaniecmt AT yahoo DOT com

Sunday Morning Flow

Vinyasa is a sanskrit word meaning "to place" (nyasa) "in a special way" (vi). Vinyasa flow is a style of yoga in which movement is linked to breath, and a sequence of poses is linked together to create a dance-like flow. Bring some movement into your morning with this dynamic, warming practice. Beginners welcome, donations appreciated. 

Please feel free to contact Eme with any questions at naimadances AT yahoo DOT com. 

Times:

Sundays 9am - 10:30am

Fees:

by donation at this time

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Eme Akpabio

Raqset Wadi al Shams

Eme has been practicing yoga for six years and recently earned her teaching certification through the Frog Lotus Yoga Training program.  For more information please email Eme at naimadances AT yahoo DOT 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)
No refunds or class credit for missed classes.

Halanda Pass not accepted this class.

Register:

Click here to register
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

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:

$16/class, drop-in
$13/class, multiple classes

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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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:

Click here to register
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

Halanda Pass not accepted this class.

Register:

Click here to register
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:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor



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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

*NEW* Bellydance Cardio and Combos

For dancers of all skill levels, this class is designed to improve your stamina, work your curves, and provide combinations of many styles to add to your repertoire. 

Class begins with a warm-up followed by stretching and strength exercises.  Students can expect to refine technique and raise heart rates through repetition.  A minimum of three combinations will be visited during each class.

Bellydance Cardio and Combos will close with a gentle cool down and stretching.

Please note: this class will not meet May 31 through June 28.

Times:

Fridays, 8pm-9:15pm

Fees:

$15/class, drop-in

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Jill Baker

Jill Baker

Jill is a bay area belly dancer who has been active in the community from San Francisco, CA to Madrid, Spain. She is a passionate dancer with a deeply-rooted love for the art, embracing multiple forms of the dance from traditional Egyptian and Cabaret to Tribal and Fusion. She took her first class over 10 years ago and has been promoting bellydance since.
 
A long time student of Crystal Silmi and a member of the dance troupe RaksArabi, Jill has performed at a variety of venues from large stage competitions to intimate restaurant settings​ and cultural functions.
 
For more information visit bellydancebyjill.com

Zumba - with Lili

Let's Party!

This class creates a party-like atmosphere with upbeat Latin and international music that is incredibly fun and easy to follow. Participants of any skill or fitness level are welcome. Zumba is an effective aerobic workout while at the same time targeting your legs, abs, glutes, and arms. You will leave the class sweating and satisfied with your workout. For teens and adults. 

Purchase a 5-Class card and get one class free. 

Times:

Mondays 6pm - 7pm 

Fees:

$8/class, drop-in
$40/6 classes with class card purchase

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor (check, cash, or credit cards)

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Lili Ghazian

Lili Ghazian

Lili has been doing Zumba for over six years and got her teaching certificate from Beto Perez, the creator of Zumba, himself. She has been training with Joe Valderrama and Adriana Carr, who are the best of the best in the Bay Area. She is an athlete training with Brian Nunez, creator of FNS and one of the coaches on "The Biggest Looser" TV show. She has a strong passion for Zumba and would bring that passion and energy to all of her classes. She is also an active member of Zin (Zumba official network). You can review her profile at: www.zumba.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:

Fridays 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Fees:

$10/class, drop-in
First Class special offer - contact Marie

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Marie Manila

Marie Manila

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

*NEW* Tribal Fusion Choreography Series

Floorwork and Flexibility

In this 8 week series we will explore the floor, flexibility, balance, and strength.  Our class practice will consist of a thorough warm-up, followed by stretching and conditioning to increase flexibility and strength, and finishing with combos that will teach you to seamlessly descend to and ascend from the floor. The 8 weeks will culminate in a choreography with the option of sword balancing.

*This is an intermediate/advanced series. Beginners with healthy knees, a positive attitude, and strong determination are more than welcome.

*Please bring knee pads, half soles or socks;  yoga blocks and swords, as well, if you have them.

*Leggings are preferred for this class in order to properly see alignment, but any form-fitting workout attire will work. 

8-week series:
July 2 - August 27  (No class on July 23)

Times:

Tuesdays, 5:30pm - 6:30pm

Fees:

$88 for 8 weeks

Register:

Click here to register
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.

*NEW* “Queen of Props” Bellydance

This class is made for people who like to add more to their stage or casual performance: veil, double veils, fan, fan-veils, cane, melaya, sword, candles, and more.

To learn more about a certain prop and how to use it, we will learn a choreography for each of them. There will be a six-week-session for every choreography, and a performance opportunity in the end.

Here is the schedule for summer 2013:
May 7 – June 11: Fan-Veils
June 18 – July 23: Silk Veil
July 30 – September 3:  Melaya Leff

Natika is a two-time-champion of the Bellydancer Of The Universe Competition 2012 and 2013 for dancing with a prop and 2013 Jewel Of The Sierra Competition Champion in “Got Prop” category.

Please visit www.natikastar.com for more info about props, and e-mail belly@natikastar.com for any questions.

Times:

Tuesdays 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Fees:

$15/class, drop in,
$40/4-class card,
$75/8-class card,
$95/12-class card
The card is good for 2 months.

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Tribal Fusion

Tribal Fusion Technique and Choreography

Tribal Fusion Belly Dance is a modern form of belly dance which has evolved from Improvisational Tribal Style belly dancing, blending elements of ITS 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:

$15/class, drop in,
$40/4-class card,
$75/8-class card,
$95/12-class card
The card is good for 2 months.

Register:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor


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Turkish Bellydance

Turkish bellydance refers to the folk dances of Turkey. On the border between Europe and the Middle East, facing three seas, straddling important trade routes, Turkey has an ancient and complicated culture, reflected in the variety of its dances. Turkish bellydance today may have been influenced by Arabs before the Ottoman Empire as much as by the Egyptian and Syrian/Lebanese forms. Turkish law does not impose restrictions on dancers as they do in Egypt, where dancers must keep their midriffs covered and cannot perform floor work and certain pelvic movements. This has resulted in a marked difference in style - Egyptian bellydance is noted for its restraint and elegance, whereas Turkish bellydance is playful and uninhibited. Many professional dancers and musicians in Turkey continue to be of Romani heritage, which is the great part of a varied fusion in this dance. (There is also a distinct Turkish Romani dance style which is different from Turkish Oriental.) Turkish dancers are known for their energetic, athletic -- even gymnastic -- style, and their adept use of finger cymbals, also known as zills. Connoisseurs of Turkish dance often say a dancer who cannot play the zills is not an accomplished dancer. Another distinguishing element of Turkish style is the use of the karșilama rhythm in a 9/8 time signature.

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.

Times:

Tuesdays 8:30pm - 9:30pm

Fees:

$15/class, drop in,
$40/4-class card,
$75/8-class card,
$95/12-class card
The card is good for 2 months.

Register:

Click here to register
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 has been taking Raks Sharki and Tribal Belly Dance classes from many well-known teachers in the Bay Area.  Thereby her unique style of dancing has arisen. Natika is a frequent attendant at workshops in the U.S. and worldwide and a participant at many U.S. festivals and competitions. She usually has something new to offer to her students and audience. Classes and performances with Natika are always a lot of fun and energy-giving. 

Natika's Awards:
Tribal Soloist Of The Year 2011 - WINNER
Jewel Of The Sierra Competition 2011 - Sapphire Category - 3rd place
Specialty-Champion at The Bellydancer Of The Universe 2012
Bellydancer Of The Year 2012 - 2nd Runner Up
Jewel Of The Sierra Competition 2012:
    Live Music Professional Category - WINNER
    Fusion Category - WINNER
    Got Props Category - WINNER
    Pro Category - 3rd Place
    TOPAZ Duo/Trio Category - 3rd Place
USA Bellydance Queen 2013 - 2nd Runner Up
Specialty-Champion at Belly Dancer of the Universe 2013
Group-Champion at Belly Dancer of the Universe 2013

For more information, please visit NatikaStar.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:

Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm

Fees:

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

Register:

Click here to register
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:

Click here to register
Pay in class, payable to instructor

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Terre Pruitt

FPO1

Terre Pruitt is a licensed Nia Teacher and Zumba Instructor. Her past dance experiences include Country Western couples dancing where she and her husband participated in dance competitions. Teaching different types of cardio dance classes allows Terre to share her passion and connect with many different people. 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:

Click here to register
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 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Fees:

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

Register:

Click here to register
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