Berkeley Parents Network: Belly Dancing Classes

Berkeley Parents Network

Belly Dancing Classes

Berkeley Parents Network > Reviews > Classes & Lessons > Dance > Belly Dancing Classes

Oct 2006

I am a reasonably fit mother of two interested in exploring belly dancing. Any recommendations for the Oakland area? Karen

There are several different styles of belly dancing that you will see in the bay area. The 2 main ones being egyptian style and tribal style. Egyptian style is the traditional style you think of originating from the middle east. Tribal style originated here in the Bay and it is more of an egyptian/gypsy fusion style with many different influences of dance (flamenco, bhangra, turkish roman, even hip hop, etc.) Usually done in a group lead and follow and the music is anywhere from asian underground, electronica, hip hop to more traditional music. Two of my favorite tribal style teachers in the east bay are Jill Parker of Ultra Gypsy (http://www.ultragypsy.com). She has classes in Berkeley and SF. And Frederique of Belly Groove (http://www.bellygroove.com). Fred has classes in Rockridge and Temescal. Both are beautiful dancers. It is a great form of exercise and expression, you will become addicted! Have fun!

April 2006

I'm looking for recommendations for a belly dance instructor who is willing to teach a class for a 6 year old's birthday party. Thanks. Theresa

I attended a party last fall [for a 4 and 6 year old], and they had hired a wonderful belly dancer that had all the kids dancing, along with many of the moms! The kids didn't want to let her go. She brought her own music and even had veils for the girls to dance with. She was dressed in a beautiful, colorful gypsy costume which was tasteful and appropriate for a child's party. I highly recommend her. I got her contact information which follows:

Name:  Nahara 
email: naharadancer[at]aol.com
phone:  (415) 257-5042

jill

March 2005

I know I've seen a flyer for pre-natal bellydancing, but I can't remember where I saw it. Can any one refer me to a *specifically* prenatal belly-dance class? I've checked the archives, but didn't see anything for this, just general bellydance. I really want to take a class in this, as I have heard that this is what belly dance originally developed for! Thanks for any help you can give me. Longing to Shake My Pregnant Belly

I belly danced through my entire pregnancy (I performed at a belly dance festival at 6 months along and kept taking classes up until my baby was born). It was great conditioning--posture is really important in belly dance, and it helped me avoid back problems in pregnancy (no waddling for me). So good for you!

That said, I don't know of any pregnancy-specific classes, and I hope someone can point you in the right direction, since that is what you are interested in. However, if you have been active and aren't too far along in your pregnancy, you could probably take regular classes with no difficulty. I would, however, choose an instructor who emphasizes posture and body mechanics. I take classes at Fat Chance Belly Dance (in SF) and couldn't be more pleased. Good luck! Carrie

Oct 2004

Where can I take belly dancing lessons or classes? Seems like a fun and great way to get exercise. Karen

Recommended:

Ashkenaz

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