With 2020 underway, let’s keep the momentum going with some new dance aspirations. Whether you are a seasoned pro or an inspiring beginner Belly Dancer, here are some places in the Northern Virginia area where you can start or keep up with your training. I may be offering some online courses for all ages soon, but the best way to practice is live with an experienced instructor attuned to your learning needs.

Belly Dance is an art form stemming from Middle Eastern dance cultures throughout Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, and many other countries with similar background. The term Raqs Sharqui is the formal name of this type of dance involving specified movements with the hips, shoulders, and stomach. There is a lot involved in relation to types of Raqs Sharqui and ceremonial dances. Egyptian Cabaret style is the most classical form of Raqs Sharqui. This is a high arts type of dance performed on stage and at prestigious venues throughout the world in a theatrical setting. There are also many fusion dances specifically in the west such as Tribal Belly Dance. Your local studio may offer specific styles like Turkish Belly Dance or a variety of styles. Check their schedule and instructor bios for more information.

The most popular types of instruction is private lessons with a number of Belly Dance artists or to travel to DC. If that isn’t possible, here are some alternatives within Northern VA or close by.

• Arlington and for those closer to Washington, DC. Saffron Dance Studio
• Vienna, VA Born 2 Dance Studio
• Sterling, VA Shakti Aerial Yoga offers Belly Dance as well as aerial dance instruction.
• Sterling, VA Mosaic Center
• Fredericksburg, VA Body Works

Also, check your local community park center. They may offer Belly Dance in their studios. Please send me a note if you find any updates or additional studios offering Belly Dance in the Northern Virginia area.