Room for Extra Practice

I often get people who ask for additional resources so they can study belly dance at home. I think for some people, this is a great way to review and expand on material used during class. Now I'll the first one to point out that take a class in person is the best way to learn this dance form, but I do agree that a little homework and video watching can really help solidify what you learn in class.

So, I've added a link to some DVDs that you can check out on Amazon, so you can see some titles I would recommended for basic belly dance moves. Also, check out these videos on YouTube/Expert Village

Tara Termini has a nice breakdown of basic movements, in an easy to understand format.

http://www.bellydancebytara.com/instructionalvideo.htm

Sahira is a dancer out of Houston, and has great basic belly dance clips that also include explanations on how a movement changes from tribal to cabaret styles.

http://www.sahira.cc/onlineclasses.htm

You can also check out a show on FitTV called Shimmy which shows a variety of movement, although the explanations aren't as detailed as I would prefer.

http://www.shimmy.tv/

So, enjoy watching and shopping and be careful, there may be a quiz later in class!

Happy shimmies.

May Classes!

This year is flying by, but I'm having so much fun in the process. I've got just a few slots left in my beginner and intermediate classes so if you are interested you'll need to put that shimmy in high gear.

Beginner Belly Dance:

This month we'll start working on circles, figure 8's and other patterns with our hip, ribs, and arms. Classes include a 30 minute drill/warm-up, a 15 minute stretch and 45 minutes of technique, combinations or choreography (depending upon the topic).

• Classes are held at on Sunday nights from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Please wear comfortable clothing (yoga pants and a top work well), and bring water. Hip scarves are available to borrow in class.
• Dates for the May classes include May 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30.
• Students must be 18 years or age or older, and please - ladies only.

Intermediate Belly Dance:

In May, we'll be doing a review (and crash course) on zilling, as well as lots of great drills and combinations. We'll also start exploring some of the more common Middle Eastern rhythms that are used in dancing. In addition, we will start on a new choreography for the fall. So, lot's of good stuff!

• Classes are held on Sunday nights from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
• Please bring zils to class. I also have extras you can borrow or purchase.
• Advance approval from the instructor is required to take the intermediate series.

Payment and registration:

• Registration is available online at http://najla-may2010.eventbrite.com/
• New students must register for the entire month. This allows you to gain the full benefit of the beginner series. Tickets are not transferable or refundable.
• Established students may purchase class cards that can be used throughout the year. (minimum of two classes at at time)
• Advance registration (for new and established students) is required, however payment can be made via cash or check at the door.

Classes are held in central Austin at Tarrytown Dance, which is conveniently located at Windsor and Exposition. (2414 Exposition Blvd., Suite B-110 Austin, Texas 78703).