Class Descriptions
Intro to Raqs Sharqi (Belly Dance)
TUES 6:30 - 7:30 PM online via Zoom with Heather
WED 6:30 - 7:30 PM in person with Ella
Raqs sharqi’s roots are in the social dances of the Middle East and North Africa. Learn the basic steps, shapes, and shimmies that make dancing fun and a source of connection across all ages and genders.
Beyond Beginners
MON 6:30 - 7:30 PM with Heather
Solidify your basic raqs sharqi technique by learning to play finger cymbals and to dance with veil. These two dance companions have shaped and enhanced raqs sharqi since the Golden Era and will make you a more musical, grounded dancer. Heather will guide you through drills and combinations to classic Arabic tunes. Recommended one year of raqs sharqi experience.
Dancing to the Drum
WED 7:45 - 8:45 PM with Ella & Jason
Join Ella and Jason for a deep dive into Egyptian rhythms! Dancers will study the structure and music theory of common Egyptian rhythm patterns with Jason, then learn how to dance along to them with Ella. Studying rhythms is key for dancers to build their musicality toolbelt, especially when improvising! Each class will feature live musical accompaniment, and there will be opportunities for improvisation practice. This class is best for dancers with at least 2 years of raqs sharqi experience.
Raqs Sharqi Solo Improvisation
MON 7:45 - 8:45 PM with Heather
Improvisation is the heart of Raqs Sharqi. In this session Heather will guide you into the music through practical tools for solo improvisation. These steps and shapes will lay the foundation for creating movement on the spot, dancing through the unknown, and developing your natural charisma and personal expression. Recommended 2 years of raqs sharqi experience.
Intro to Tabla
WED 6:30 - 7:30 PM with Jason
The tabla is the heartbeat of Middle Eastern music and is one of the most dynamic instruments in the world. This intro level class teaches the basic sounds and rhythms, laying the foundation for more complex variations and patterns.