Belly Dance FAQs for Beginners

What is Belly Dance?

Belly Dance is a term for a beautiful feminine dance form from the Middle East. Its movements are thousands of years old and are based on traditional folk dances. Belly dance differs from Western dance forms by emphasizing the torso and using isolations to express the rhythmic and emotional qualities of Arabic music. Traditionally, it is an improvised solo dance — a dancer’s personal interpretation of the music. Attend Jawaahir’s performances and you will get a better feel of what the dance is about and its roots!

Is it a good workout?

Yes! The dance is a great total body workout that builds strength, is easy on your joints, and increases your flexibility. Belly dance is also a great emotional release because it is fun and creative!

What if I am not a dancer?

Our Level 1 classes are geared for non-dancers. You will learn basic movements and then build upon them.

What if I am a dancer, do I need to take Level 1?

Yes. You may progress more quickly than a non-dancer, but you need to learn the basics, as they are the building blocks for more advanced technique. Again, belly dance uses the body in very different ways than other dance forms. You will also need to learn how to play finger cymbals.

Am I too old/young to learn?

Too old? Never! Our classes are filled with women of all ages, mostly 20s to 70s, and we do accept girls as young as 13. Classes are geared toward the adult learner, so girls younger than 13, due to shorter attention spans, must be accompanied by an adult.

Will there be other women my size in the class?

Yes, there will be women of all sizes in the classes. The beauty of this dance form is that it makes you feel wonderful in your own body, no matter its size or shape.

I have an injury; can I still take the class?

This depends on the type of injury and your doctor’s advice. Speak with your teacher about past injuries or body weaknesses so that she can give you alternative exercises or movements if necessary. Mostly you need to learn the difference between good and bad pain so that you don’t aggravate the condition. Some conditions can actually be improved through proper exercise. For example, lower back problems may be lessened by strengthening your abdominals. Learn to listen to and respect your body.

What is a class like?

The classes start with warm-up and conditioning exercises to help you prepare for the movements you will learn. Next is instruction in dance movements mixed with finger cymbal instruction. The class closes with stretching and cool-down exercises. All of this is done to an array of fun Arabic musical selections.

How long are the classes?

The Cassandra School offers year-round classes in 10 week sessions. Beginner and Level 2 classes are 90 minutes long. Levels 3-5 and some special classes are 2 hours long.

What do I wear?

Wear workout or dance wear, something comfortable to move in that you don’t mind sweating into!

Do I need shoes?

We dance barefoot, so you don’t need special footwear. Some students do wear dance slippers or sandals, but that is a personal choice.

Do I need a hip scarf?

You are welcome to bring or purchase a hip scarf to accentuate the movements, but it isn’t necessary. We do have some hip scarves available for purchase should you develop a craving we call bead lust, the strong desire for something sparkly!

Do I need finger cymbals?

We teach all students how to play finger cymbals, or zills, starting at our beginner level and continuing through all levels. The Cassandra School does provide zills you can use during our beginner classes. We sell them and encourage you to purchase your own so that you can practice on your own.

Do I have to wear a costume for class?

No. This is a good workout — it would be too hard on the fine fabrics of a costume.

Do I have to perform?

No. As you develop as a student you may choose to perform or not. Many students take classes just for their own pleasure. If you do wish to develop performance skills, there will be student opportunities that your teacher will let you know about. Whether you wish to perform or not, attending performances is very educational.

Do we learn a choreography in class?

This will depend on the teacher. Traditionally the dance was and still is improvised, so a choreography or dance combinations are only tools to help you learn how the dance works with the music. The fun creative part comes when you learn to dance your own dance, as you feel it!

Do I take each level for one session?

Like most dance schools programs, students remain at a level for about a year before moving to the next level. So usually a beginner student has studied for 0-1 years, Level 2 for 1-2 years, Level 3 for 2-4 years, etc. There is a lot of material to learn and master at each level which the next level will build upon. All this depends on your ability and, oh yes, how much you practice. Your teacher is your best guide and will tell you when you have mastered a level and are ready for the next.

Can I take more than one class per week?

Of course, and it will help you learn faster!

When can I start?

We recommend new students start within the first 3 weeks of a session because the class is progressive. We want you to have fun and not get frustrated by not understanding the movements and isolations that have been taught and are being built upon. In addition, the students are learning to play new finger cymbal patterns weekly.

What if I missed the first three weeks but want to start now?

If you can’t wait for the next session, call the office to see whether we have an opportunity for you to join a class already in session. No guarantees, but we’ll try to accommodate your enthusiasm.

How much does it cost?

Beginners and Level 2 classes are $14 per class or $120 for the 10 week session.
Level 3-5 classes are $16 per class or $140 for the 10 week session. Note: If you pay for a session, we do not carry over missed classes from one session to the next. You must make up missed classes by attending any of the other classes we offer at that level at any location.

How do I register?

There are three ways to register for class:

• Register online through PayPal here.
• Register by mail using the registration form on the class flyer you received.
  (If you didn’t receive one, give us a call at 612-872-6050 and we’ll send you one.)
• Register at your first class. We accept cash, check, and Visa or Master Card.

What if I have more questions?

We'd be happy to answer them. Just give us a call at 612-872-6050.

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