What Will I Learn?
Newcomers...you're about to take a gentle step into a world that will forever enhance your life!
You will learn the very basics of this dance...hip circles, hip lifts & drops, undulations, snake arms, figure 8s, shimmies & so much more! You will do combinations (short dances) & choreography, learn to use a veil & much about the history about the world's oldest dance!
What to Expect?
A whole lot of fun! Students who attend class not only learn a wonderful, fluid, feminine way to express themselves, but also make new friends while enjoying the fitness benefits from this very low impact, aerobic dance. Students enjoy the study of this dance as a personal exploration of their own hearts, minds & souls. Some students go on to perform in my Haflas (dance parties), & Showcases, while others continue their studies to dance in our Troupe or work professionally! I welcome hobbyists to those wishing to persue belly dance as a profession to my class! When you first arrive in class, tell me what you goals are so that I may gear your education accordingly!
What Makes Gia's Classes Different?
The 3 Qs!
Quality: Your teacher is skilled & educated! Did you know that some who have NEVER taken formal classes as well as those who've only studied for a few months call themselves belly dance teachers!?! It's sad...but true! I have studied dance since I was three including ballet, jazz & Middle Eastern Dance extensively. Even as a professional performer and teacher, I continue my studies with Master Instructors from all over the world and pass my knowledge on to you!
Quantity: Unlike other teachers, I don't overstuff classes!!! I want to give 1-on-1 attention to every student who comes to my class! Fewer students means you get a better education!
UnQuestionable Devotion to my Students: OK...that's really a "U', but it's true. I have many devoted students who continue to study with me because they know that my students come first. I don't just teach dance steps...I teach you how to bring YOURSELF into this dance! Bring in the fun, the beauty, bring out the DIVA!
What to Wear?
Wear comfortable clothes...whatever feels good in which to move! NO JEANS...NO STREET SHOES! I wear stretch or yoga pants that allow for a lot of movement, but you can wear sweat pants if you desire!
While it isn't necessary to expose your belly, you should wear a top that is form fitting which allows me to to see your body & hip movements!
I wholeheartedly suggest that you bring to class something to tie around your hips...it doesn't have to be fancy! This allows us both to see that you are moving correctly!
I always wear dance shoes, but some feel comfortable dancing in their bare feet (very traditional!) You may wish to wear ballet or jazz shoes or dance sandals (recommended).
Your teacher is a seasoned performer of Authentic Middle Eastern Dance, & lifetime dance student who continues her studies with master instructors from around the country & the Middle East! While I take myself lightly, I take my work seriously...which means that my students will have MUCH fun in class while in a supportive, discliplined learning environment!
Classes are attended by old & young...students with some dance background & students who have never taken a class....ever!