FAQ

I hope these answers help you! If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please contact me.

What do I need to wear?

When you begin classes, please wear comfortable clothing you can move in - eg, track suit bottoms and T-shirt to start.  Bare feet or soft soled shoes such as ballet shoes or leather soled jazz shoes  (no socks or hard soled shoes or trainers). 
Once you have been to a few classes you may want to buy a coin belt (so you jingle) - occasionally I have some, but please see links (to come) for some suppliers. 

Is there an age or fitness limit?

Minimum age for most classes is 16 - the maximum is up to you as long as you feel able!  Although belly dancing often helps through pregnancy its generally advisable to only continue with classes rather than start when pregnant.  You will need to complete a health questionnaire, and if unsure whether you are fit enough please discuss with your GP first.  I can teach in general classes from age 14, but please ask for the most suitable class before joining.  Introduction to Ancient Egypt is available to local schools (Bristol, North Somerset and surrounding). Please contact Nina regarding any health questions.

Is it for men as well?

The dance and classes are open to all - please ask for details.

How do I book?

Evening classes are paid for by block term (between 5-8 weeks according to school terms) by cheque before the term starts - contact Nina for booking sheet.  There is a reduction for early payment!  This ensures no time is wasted in classes with registration.  Drop in classes are available in the Summer holidays, but please ensure you arrive in plenty of time to register.

Will I have fun?

This is usually a criteria for starting classes!  I try to have a relaxed style in teaching as life is tough enough already. However its not at the expense of ensuring safe posture and good practice.

How does this dance help with fitness?

The trendy "core strength" is evolved from using the different layers of the abdomen and not just developing one set of abdominal muscles.  Belly dancing provides an excellent way of developing core strength over a gradual period of time, with balance, co-ordination, posture and helping to strengthen your back with the support of your body.  It goes very well any other form of aerobic exercise for all round fitness.  

Do I get the chance to perform?

Dance is a performing art - even if its just for the class, your friends or family you will start to learn performance skills.  You will never be pushed into anything you don't feel comfortable with.  Those you want to perform outside the classes can join the newly forming troupe.  General performance skills will also help with overall life skills.

How long are the classes?

Regular classes are just under an hour long (allowing cross over time) which includes warm up and cool down. It is your responsibility to arrive on time and ensure that you can get the most from your class. Workshops are usually two hours and are much harder work!

What's a typical class?

A class will always have a structure with a warm up and cool down.  Terms are structured by content for learning new moves for beginners through to choreographed and improvisational pieces for more advanced classes.  Should you need props (veils, sticks or finger cymbals), these will either be provided on loan or you will have plenty of time to source any.

Arabic dance, belly dance, oriental dance, rags sharki, egyptian?  What's the difference?

You will find that the dance is called by lots of names.  Most people consider belly dance to be a body revealing dance - but that's not the case in most general classes.  More on this to come.....

Which class is best for me?

If you are a complete beginner to arabic dance, then join the first beginners class.  If you have been to classes before please discuss with Nina as to which class would be most suitable for you.

Where do I get the outfit?

There are lots of places in the UK selling costumes - see resources for just a few. Clothes from charity shops can often be adapted with a few additional sequins. Items can also be found on e-bay (but you need to know what you are looking for) - belts especially vary considerably in price and quality. Items can also be picked up on holiday or at festivals - keep your eyes open!  There are also patterns that you can buy and books for sewing ideas.

What DVD would you recommend to beginners?

There is no real substitute for attending classes - the same as other dance classes, yoga and pilates.  But, there are some excellent DVDs and more coming out all the time - the best range and advice is available through Aladdins Cave - check Resource list (to come).

What music is best to start with?

You will probably want a compilation CD that has a mixture of music and more pop orientated so that you can hear the beat - eg Bellydance Superstars albums..  As you begin to understand the rhythms you will be able to better appreciate the authentic music.  There are also CDs which have the different rhythm patterns on them (but start with ones aimed at dancers rather than at drummers).  Aladdins Cave offer the largest range in the country - alternatively you can source through amazon or ebay.  Please do not copy CD's.

Where can I learn to drum?

There is now a percussion based class alongside the tribal classes - see workshops for details.  The only local (Bristol/Bath) arabic percussion teacher is Chas Whitaker who teaches Beginners to performance level. www.arabicdrum.co.uk   There are other teachers in other parts of the country, please ask Nina for advice.  Also, african drumming can help your co-ordination WCADE have a regular monthly meeting in Weston-super-Mare. See events page. 

Where can I see dancers performing?

There are many workshops and events in the South West and further afield. There will be an events list coming.