Halanda Studio - for Dance and Fitness

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Bellydance Basics

Learn and master basic moves for the beautiful artform of Bellydance. We will break down three or four new movements each class, forming them into combinations which will build into a choreography throughout each month-long session. Key Near Eastern rhythms -- a new rhythm each month -- 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.

Perfect for Beginners to Bellydance, as well as Intermediate students who want to improve dance technique. No prior dance experience needed.

Times:	Saturdays 9:30am-10:30am
Fees:	$12/class, single class $10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid Advance class payments valid for up to 6 weeks from purchase.
Register:	Bellydance Basics Payments taken in class

Bellydance and Beyond - Inter./Advanced

Expand your knowledge of Bellydance... and Beyond: Oriental Dance (Bellydance) technique. Near Eastern rhythms. Finger Cymbal 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.

Classes begin with Finger Cymbal practice to learn rhythms covered in that class. After a thorough warm-up, Amanda teaches steps and combinations or a choreography. Amanda also teaches a Near Eastern folk dance in most classes. The goal of this class is to deepen each student's understanding of Near Eastern dance -- Bellydance as well as Folkloric and Classical styles, improve each student's technical abilities, and train dancers who are excellent performers as well as knowledgable students of Near Eastern dance.

Intermediate/Advanced students only.
Recommended: at least one year of Bellydance classes and familiarity with basic Bellydance movements.

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.

Current session dates and topics listed on AmandaDancer.com.

Times:	Saturdays 10:30am-11:45am
Fees:	$12/class, single class $10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid Advance class payments valid for up to 6 weeks from purchase.
Register:	Bellydance and Beyond - Int/Adv Payments taken in class

Near Eastern Dance - Choreography

Learn and polish choreographies of traditional Bellydance and Near Eastern folkloric and classical dance styles, including dances from the growing repertoire of Amanda's Karavansaray Dance Company. Hone your dance and performance skills by working on the details that make a good performance. Performance is not required, but opportunities will arise for presenting choreographies learned in this class. Prior dance experience is recommended.

More information at AmandaDancer.com.

Times:	Fridays 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Fees:	$12/class, single class $10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid Advance class payments valid for up to 6 weeks from purchase.
Register:	Near Eastern Dance - Choreography Payments taken in class

Karavansaray Dance Company Rehearsal

Prepare for troupe performances of traditional Bellydance and Near Eastern folkloric dance styles with Amanda's Karavansaray Dance Company. Prior dance experience is recommended. Troupe membership is open to all interested students, but please contact Amanda for approval to join Karavansaray. Attendance of the Choreography class is strongly recommended, as most company dances will be taught initially in the Choregraphy class.

More information at AmandaDancer.com.

Times:	Fridays 7:30pm - 8:30pm
Fees:	Please contact Amanda for details.

Amanda

Amanda is co-owner of Halanda Studio. She has over 18 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, including performances at the SF/BA MECDA Galas in 2006 and as an invited instructor and performer at the MECDA Hafla in August 2008. 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 Bootcamp

This is a conditioning class for belly dancers. Get ready to dance! We will use a combination of belly dance isolations & standing yoga poses that warm-up, strengthen, and stretch the body. To turn up the cardio, we'll focus on fast drills & traveling. Simple, short combos may be introduced during the last half of class, so that students can put it all together in one dance. A thorough cool down which focuses on flexibility will conclude class. All levels welcome! Wear something comfotrable, and a hip scarf if you've got one!

Times:	Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm
Fees:	First class FREE with purchase of class card (new students only) $15 drop-in $55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months $95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months Class card may be used at any of Ashley's classes in the Bay Area (not applicable to workshops)
Register:	Bellydance Bootcamp Payments taken in class

Ashley Lopez

Ashley is a certified group fitness instructor, registered yoga teacher, and has been instructing fitness and dance classes since 2003. After relocating to the Bay Area, she joined Polynesian troupe SF Hula and then formed her professional award-winning troupe, Orchid Belly Dance. Ashley's main influences and instructors come from the heart of Tribal belly dance in San Francisco: Mira Betz, Rachel Brice, Zoe Jakes, and Jill Parker, among others. She has also studied Latin Dance, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Flamenco, Tahitian, and Hula.

"Teaching is one of my greatest passions. I am so deeply grateful for the wonderful people who attend my classes, workshops and performances. Over the years I have learned so much from and am constantly inspired by the women who dance with me. I believe belly dance is something every woman should try at least once in her lifetime. It is an ancient, cross-cultural art form and folk dance which can be shared casually with friends or professionally on stage. It is beautiful on ANY BODY. I believe in getting to know and love your body as you dance. As an exercise, belly dance can be an incredibly effective way to strengthen the core muscles, arms, and legs as well as build grace in movement, balance and flexibility. Come work up a sweat, get in shape, meet some friends, and laugh a lot!"

For more information, please visit Ashley's website: AshleyLopezBellydance.com

Tribal Fusion

Killer Tribal Drillz:
Experience the basic technique necessary to dive into the world of Tribal belly dance. Drill 'til your muscles BURN! Or, take it at your own pace 'til 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. Single movements will be combined together to create challenging sequences and layers. Students will also learn the basics of traveling, turning, and American Tribal Style steps. PLEASE NOTE: While this class is open to all levels, it is not an introductory class. Beginners are welcome, but you may also benefit from a slower-paced class which is specifically geared for new students.

Please note: this class moves to 6:30pm, starting Sept. 2.

Times:	Thursdays 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Fees:	$15 drop-in $55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months $95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months First class FREE with purchase of class card (new students only). Class card may be used at any of Ashley's classes in the Bay Area (not applicable to workshops)
Register:	Tribal Drillz Payments taken in class

Tribal Fusion Choregraphy:
Take it to the next level! It is best if you have some dance experience because we will be be exploring more complicated steps & combos. You will also practice turns, combos, and snakey moves that incorporate the whole body. Tribal belly dance steps will be integrated with other dance forms such as Hip-Hop, Salsa, Flamenco, Modern, Hula, and more! At the end of class you will spend some time learning choreography and practicing improvisation!

Please note: this class moves to 7:30pm, starting Sept. 2.

Times:	Thursdays 7:30pm - 8:30pm
Fees:	$15 drop-in $55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months $95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months First class FREE with purchase of class card (new students only). Class card may be used at any of Ashley's classes in the Bay Area (not applicable to workshops)
Register:	Tribal Fusion Choreography Payments taken in class

Ashley Lopez

For more information, please visit Ashley's website: AshleyLopezBellydance.com

Flamenco

Summer Flamenco Bootcamp Series

Adults/Teens
All Level Students.

Students have the option of taking from 1 to 4 hours of classes every Saturday. At the end of the series, interested students will have a chance to perform what they have learned in a traditional Flamenco Tablao Venue in San Francisco!

Current Session: July 10 through August 28.

Times:

Saturdays 12:45pm - 4:30pm

Fees:

Please visit Carolina's website for information about class fees, policies, and curriculum: www.carolinalugo.com
Carolina offers Flamenco Dance Class Gift Certificates.

Flamenco - Beginner I/II
Payments taken in class

Please note: This class does not accept the Halanda Pass.

Carolina Lugo

Director-Dancer-Choreographer-Master Teacher, Carolina Lugo is widely regarded as one of the most gifted Flamenco-Spanish dance artists of her generation. Carolina is a master of the castanets and Spanish dance. Her music video of her castanet interpretation of "Leyenda," is shown on the nationally broadcast show, Classical Arts Showcase. Carolina has dedicated herself over the last ten years to preserving the artistic lineage of La Argentina, Antonio Triana, Luisa Antonio Triana, Lola Montes, Merche Esmeralda, Ciro and Azurin, by teaching the art form of both genres -- Flamenco - Spanish dance -- to a new generation of artists and dancers.

Carolina made her professional debut at the age of 14. She has danced and toured the U.S. and internationally with leading companies: Lola Montes Spanish Dance Company, Luisa Triana Flamenco Dance Company, Jose Greco, Rosa Montoya Bailes Flamencos; and has shared the stage with international Flamenco artists from Spain, such as Genaro Gomez, Cruz Luna, Teodoro Morca and Benito Palacios, performing in major concert halls and with leading symphonies throughout the U.S. and internationally. Carolina danced for multiple seasons as a guest artist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl, and was a featured soloist with the Los Angeles Opera in their productions of "Carmen" and "La Traviata" at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Most recently, Ms. Lugo has danced and collaborated on choreographic works with international Flamenco artists from Spain: Manuel Betanzos, Concha Vargas, Antonio Vargas, and Pepa Montes.

Carolina received her training in Flamenco, Spanish Dance, Spanish Classical (Escuela Bolero), Neo-Classical and Regional Dances in Spain from master Flamenco artists such as Ciro, Luisa Triana, Antonio Vargas, Azurin, Concha Vargas and Pepa Montes and in the USA from Lola Montes, Jose Greco, Teo Morca, Rosa Montoya and Sarah de Luis. Ms. Lugo is a master of the castanets, an integral part of Spanish dance. A music video of her castanet interpretation of "Leyenda" is shown on the nationally broadcast show "Classic Arts Showcase."

For more information, please visit Carolina's website: CarolinaLugo.com

Fusion Foundations

This class bears the word "Fusion" because the instructor draws from a blend of techniques -- including Middle Eastern, North African and Central Asian "belly dance," but also some western modern ballet and jazz. This approach allows beginning students to experience a broad range of styles, while giving them a solid foundation in good posture, isolation, musicality and connection with rhythm. Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and stamina are part of the class structure, but are not meant as a measure of your success. Learn how to play the zills/sagat (finger cymbals) along with your first steps into belly dance! There will be an opportunity to purchase zills in class if you don't have them. Please wear non-restrictive clothing and a hip scarf to accent your movements. Water bottle and yoga mat are recommended. Fun is a must!

Times:	Sundays 12pm - 1pm
Fees:	First Class Free. $14/class drop-in 5-class Pass: $60, good for 2 months from first use ($12/class) 6-week session, One class: $72 ($12/class) 6-week session, Both classes: $120 ($10/class)
Register:	Fusion Foundations Payments taken in class

*NEW* Fusion Bellydance - Intermediate

Continuing from Fusion Foundations*, this class draws from a blend of techniques -- including Middle Eastern, North African and Central Asian "belly dance" styles. Develop more challenging dance combinations and musicality. Posture, isolation, foot work and rhythm will be stressed. Explore various props! We will continue playing zills along with our dance. Please wear non-restrictive clothing and a hip scarf to accent your movements. Please bring a water bottle and yoga mat. As this class progresses, we will offer opportunities to share solo choreographies in class with your peers!

*Fusion Foundations not prerequisite, but enrollment in both is recommended for continuity. Contact Dakini if you'd like to sign up as a new student.

Times:	Sundays 1pm - 2pm
Fees:	First Class Free. $14/class drop-in 5-class Pass: $60, good for 2 months from first use ($12/class) 6-week session, One class: $72 ($12/class) 6-week session, Both classes: $120 ($10/class)
Register:	Fusion Bellydance - Intermediate Payments taken in class

Dakini

Captivating audiences with her spontaneity, charm, and fluidity, Dakini's interpretations are fresh, with a fiery spark, and demonstrate the skills developed over 30+ years of dance experience. She believes in dancing from the heart. Dakini's main focus is on bringing a strong self awareness to the student. Being in touch with your body and how it moves is the first step in letting your own light shine from within. Dakini is also a veteran member of the Veils of the Nile dance company, directed by Aleili -- see www.aleili.com -- which often performs for non-profits and charity benefits.

For more information, please visit Dakini's website: DakiniDreams.net

Dances of Persia and the Silk Road

Join us on a journey to Persia and the Silk Road and learn the great wonders of these regions. This class introduces the beautiful and elegant culture, and rhythms of the Silk Road including dances from Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, as well as dances of Ancient and Modern Persia such as: Classical and Contemporary, Folk, Sufi/Mystical Dances, and Modern/Fusion Persian and Middle Eastern Dances. The class will focus on improvisation, expression, and numerous techniques for turning and strengthening. Appropriate props will be introduced as the class progresses, and students will learn a structured choreography. Classes are for Teens and Adults.

All Levels Welcome. First Class Free!

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.

Please note NEW class time: Thursday, 8:30pm-9:30pm, starting Sept. 2.

Times:	Thursdays 8:30pm - 9:30pm
Fees:	$15/class, drop-in $13/class, 1 month pre-paid First Class Free
Register:	Dances of Persia and the Silk Road Payments taken in class

Farima Berenji

Farima's love of dance has led her on an extraordinary life-long journey that has taken her throughout the Middle East and to her original birthplace, Iran. Today Farima specializes in dances from the Silk Road (Persia and Central Asia) and the Middle East, as well as Sacred/Sufi Dances, Theater, and Ballet, in all of which she has taken extensive training. She has studied with master teachers in U.S., as well as Iran, Azerbaijan, and Kurdistan. Farima continues her passion by teaching various dance styles, including Persian, Middle Eastern, Folk, Ballet, Theater, as well as teaching Mesopotamian, Persian, and Egyptian History to various dance companies, educational institutions, and community organizations. Farima is currently a principal performer and instructor of Ballet Afsaneh, a professional non-profit performing arts company that presents traditional Central Asian Silk Road region dances, directed by Sharlyn Sawyer. She has been awarded "Instructor of the Year" by Ballet Afsaneh.

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:	Middle Eastern Bellydance - All Levels Payments taken in class

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

Middle Eastern Bellydance - Int/Adv
Payments taken in class

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

Middle Eastern Bellydance - Choreography and Performance
Payments taken in class

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

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

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 by Master Egyptian teachers and provides information, performances and assistance to schools, cultural institutions and web-magazines on the origin and survival of this beautiful art form.

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

*NEW* American Tribal Style Bellydance

"ATS Basics" consists of the standard, simpler steps of ATS (American Tribal Style), focusing mainly on getting the technique down, with proper posture. There is some attention to transitions and leading, but these aspects of the dance are not generally emphasized. If you have little or no background in ATS, need a refresher, or are a little shy about leading, this class if for you. This class is open to anyone who is interested in learning or practicing ATS.

For more information, please visit inannaraks.com

Times:	Sundays 11am - 12pm
Fees:	$12/class drop-in $40/month
Register:	American Tribal Style Bellydance Payments taken in class

Petra Pino

In 1995, I had the good fortune to find myself in Carolena Nericcio's American Tribal Style belly dance class, having been dragged there by a friend. She took three classes and decided that it was not right for her, but I was hooked! I loved the grace of the experienced dancers, their ability to move in sync like a flock of birds, and the exotic expressiveness of the music we danced to.

Between 1995-2000, I was in Carolena's class between one and three times a week, and was part of her understudy troupe, Second Skin. When I got a new job outside of San Francisco, I had to leave the FatChance fold.

During the next few years, I studied with a number of Cabaret teachers, including Magana Baptiste, Azar, Ma*shuqa Mira Murjan, and others. I love exploring all different types of belly dance, but ATS is my first love -- the improvisational capacity and moves are simply compelling for me. I missed it, and couldn't stay away.

In 2003, at the request of a few friends and acquaintances, I began teaching mostly ATS style in a small studio. Since then, I've realized my passion and capacity for sharing ATS, as well as infusing it with other dance forms, and the occasional yoga asana, too.

Since 2004, I've also broadened my awareness of the Body-Mind through getting back into yoga, getting a accreditation with Yoga Alliance as a Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Educational Seminars. I enjoy bringing asana, awareness of the esoteric body, and meditation into dance classes... this can really enhance dancing techniques and performance capabilities. Additionally, I'm on a long-term track to complete a Masters in Somatic Psychology (a fancy way of saying "therapy with a focus on mind-body connections for healing").

For more information, please visit inannaraks.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:	Basic Belly Payments taken in class

Rakset Wadi al Shams

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

*NEW* Bachata Series

This very special Bachata series includes highlights of the International Bachata Festival that was held in July in San Francisco. If you missed the fun ($300 for the pass), you can save a bundle and still learn the coolest patterns, footwork, styling, dips 'n' tricks with Ricki and Mauricio. Ricki and Mauricio currently direct a Bachata Dance team and have just released a one of a kind Bachata Basics & Beyond DVD! No partner needed, come have fun and learn in a small group setting! (15-25 people)

Email or call Ricki for questions.

Series starts Sept. 14.

Times:	Tuesdays, 8pm-9pm
Fees:	$20 drop-in $60 for 4-week series
Register:	www.SalsaDanceNow.com Payments taken in class

Raquel (Ricki) Anaya

Whether you have two left feet and have NEVER danced before or have taken many classes, I can help you learn the secrets to dancing quickly and easily. I explain the dances clearly and demonstrate at a pace anyone can handle. Let me help you get ready for the upcoming holiday season, wedding, or night out on the town. Dancing is a great way to lose weight, keep active, socialize, be close to and make lifelong friends. Other dances include; Weddings, Cumbia, Bachata, Merengue, Cha Cha, & Performances.

For more information, please call Ricki at 408-661-9673 or visit Ricki's website: www.SalsaDanceNow.com

Sharqui™ - the Bellydance Workout

In the spirit of time-honored health and fitness traditions that have surfaced over the years -- from Tae Bo to Zumba -- the time has come to experience a new form of exercise that is sweeping across the East Coast and quickly across the nation to California. SharQui™ -- the Bellydance Workout is an aerobic dance workout based on the fundamentals of belly dancing. However, it does more than shape a woman's abs, it shapes up her attitude about her body too!

It's a great overall fitness workout that gets your heart rate up, tones your body and strengthens your abs. Its uniqueness lies in what has been incorporated from the ancient art form of belly dance -- how to love your body, no matter your natural shape or size. This builds a woman's self-esteem and gets her in touch with her sensuality! In my classes, women are applauded for being women -- strong, fit and having curvaceous figures and a sexy tummy! If you are an experienced dancer, you will be able to perfect your form, balance, and gain strength, while learning a new way to approach movement.

Open to all levels.

Find more information about SharQui™ at www.sharqui.com.

Times:	Tuesdays 7pm - 8pm
Fees:	$10/class drop-in $35 for set of 4 classes
Register:	SharQui™ Payments taken in class

Sandra Forrer

Sandra is an ACE certified group fitness leader and a certified SharQui™ instructor. A bellydance enthusiast for many years she currently dances with Raks al Khalil (Dance of Friends) in San Jose with her two daughters and many friends. After many years of trying to balance the need for an aerobic workout with her love of bellydance she was fortunate enough to meet Oreet, the creator of SharQui at Rakassah West in 2009. The combination was perfect, a total body workout that gets your heart pumping while you celebrate your femininity and feed your soul. She was immediately hooked and wanted to share this workout with everyone.

"Life is a journey best shared with others. Come join me on the road to health, fitness and happiness."

For more information, please call Sandra at 408-315-9565 or email dragonflysg4 AT aol DOT com.

*NEW* Bellydance Bollywood Fusion

Come explore the sensuality of Bellydance blended with the spice of Bollywood! The dance form used in Indian films, Bollywood incorporates various Indian and Western dance styles. This class fuses Bellydance technique with elements of Indian semi-classical and folk dance, as well as modern dance. Students will learn how to incorporate with Bellydance the mudras (hand gestures) and footwork that are typical of Indian dance. Skirt and veil work will be included, leading to a shared class choreography.

All levels welcome.

Please note: no classes on Aug. 24 or Aug. 31.

Times:	Tuesdays 6pm-7pm
Fees:	$15/class, drop-in $90 for 7 classes
Register:	Bellydance Bollywood Fusion Payments taken in class

Shaheen

Shaheen has been been Bellydancing for over 20 years, and enjoys fusing various eclectic dance styles with Bellydance. She finds the joyful exuberance of Bollywood dance and the sensual art of Bellydance to form a perfect complement.

Shaheen teaches belly dance in San Jose, and is the artistic director of Jewel of Opar and Narantuya Bellydance ensembles.

For more information, please visit Shaheen's website:
shaheenraks.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:	Nia Payments taken in class

Terre Pruitt

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

Zumba

What is Zumba? It's the best prescription for exercise in disguise delivered in a great party-like atmosphere. Zumba has become one of the fastest growing Latin dance-inspired fitness crazes across the world! People of all ages are falling in love with its infectious music, easy-to-follow dance moves and body-sculpting benefits!
The Zumba program fuses hypnotic rhythms, easy-to-follow moves, and some resistance training to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will blow you away. Add some Latin flavor and international zest into the mix and you've got a Zumba class!

Come dance to the rhythms of Salsa, Merengue, Reggaeton, Bellydance, Flamenco and other Exciting beats. This is a fitness class you will not want to miss! Ditch the workout, join the party!

Times:	Fridays 5:30pm-6:30pm
Fees:	$12 drop-in $55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months $100 for 10-class card, good for 4 months Class card is Transferable.
Register:	Zumba with Valeria Payments taken in class

Valeria Soto

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina to an American-Argentinean family, Valeria Soto liked dancing, singing, and moving her body to music from an early age. At eight, she was a student and performer at Maria Amuchastegui's Tap Dance Studio. Later, she studied Contemporary Dance for six years with ballerina Vanina Bagli. Valeria also studied with Ms. Luciana Glanc and at "Casa del Angel" . Upon her recent arrival in San Jose, Valeria immediately pursued further dance and music studies and activities. She is presently studying Contemporary, Modern, Jazz, Dance Tech and Lyrical dancing at Studio 10 in Cupertino, Bellydancing at Halanda Studio, where she has performed with Karavansaray Dance Company, and Voice with Maestro Carl Franzen. Certified Zumba Instructor by Beto Perez in: Zumba level I, Zumba level II, Zumba Toning, and ZumbaTomic.

For more information, please contact Valeria at
valesotis AT gmail DOT com

Halanda Studio for Dance and Fitness