Below I have a set of questions that I often get from new and prospective students. Have more questions? Don't hesitate to email or call me.

What should I wear to class?
What about my feet?
What do I bring to class?
Where can I get bellydance cds, videos, hip sashes, and more?
What do you recommend? To learn. To listen. To watch.

What do I bring to class?
Bellydance: A hip sash is a must for any bellydancer. Going beyond fitting the "look," hip sashes help aid the dancer in achieving the desired movement. For many beginning dancers, it is the hip sash that makes bellydancing so much fun. hip sashes with coins are available for purchase at class. Unsure if you want to stick with bellydance? There are many inexpensive options. Look for starter belts or for a sash that can also function as a piece of your wardrobe. You may also want to bring a towel and bottle of water and maybe a friend!
World Dance Workout: Despite having fun in this class, we still work hard! So you may want to bring a towel and bottle of water.
Dance Conditioning and Dancelates: Yoga mats are necessary for this class--and maybe two if you need more cushioning. Mats are available for use at the MJCC Dancelates classes, but you must bring your own to Dance Conditioning. Towel, yoga blocks (or substitute), and theraband or strap may be helpful as well but not required.

What should I wear to class?
Bellydance: Just as the dance form is influenced by so many rich cultures so is bellydance attire. From flowing skirts to crop tops, you have many options to choose from. These items are not required, however. Wear clothing that is comfortable, non- restrictive, and shows your frame (so that alignment errors can be seen). Should you choose to wear a skirt, make sure you have leggings underneath. Please no jeans or extremely loose sweats. Exercise extra caution if you choose to wear jewelry. A hip or coin scarf is also recommended.
World Dance Workout: Comfortable, non-restrictive pants and t-shirt top. Basically what you would wear to an aerobics class or the gym.
Dance Conditioning and Dancelates: Comfortable, non-restrictive leggings and top that shows your frame.

What about my feet?
There are a variety of options when it comes to footwear. I recommend bare feet, not only is it inexpensive but allows you to feel the floor directly. Often times, dancers prefer to dance barefoot but ther feet are too sensitive. An inexpensive solution is to buy a pair of tube socks that filt around the ball of the foot, making turning easier while still providing grip. There are dance shoes much like this for purchase as well. Ballet slippers and dance shoes are recommended for those who want to wear "shoes". Unless the floor is carpeted, socks are not recommended due to the risk of falling. Street shoes are not allowed on the studio floors.

Are there any pre-requisites to taking classes?
Bellydancing is great for EVERYONE! Even if you have never danced before. However, there are a few classes that require prior knowledge. Any pre-requisites required are listed in the detailed class descriptions.

How do I know what level I am?
Most students will need to begin with bellydance technique or choreography I. If you have previous experience bellydancing, then you might be ready to join the choreography II class. The best option is to talk to me beforehand so that we can assess what class is best for you, your goals, and your schedule. Regardless, our classes welcome all levels, and I am used to teaching multi-level classes.

How often should I attend?
As much as you can! Our bellydance technique classes allow for individuals who may only be able to attend once or twice a month while our choreography classes require weekly attendance in order to truly learn the material. Attendance recommendations are noted for each type of class in the detailed class descriptions. Remember that it takes time to learn to bellydance and regular attendance is necessary to truly learn the art as well as achieve the health benefits associated with bellydance.

How do I register?
Registrations must be made at the location where you will be taking class. Credit cards are only accepted at the Memphis Jewish Community Center and Singleton Community Center locations. Cash or check is accepted at any location. You should arrive early enough to take care of payment and registration so as to not miss the beginning of class. It takes roughly 10 minutes.For some specialty classes, registrations must be made in advance in order to assess whether a class makes or not. Some advance registrations can also save you money, so keep an eye out for those deals.

Where can I shop for bellydance cds, videos, hip sashes, and more?
Interested in bellydance goodies? I have a number of items available for purchase, some of which I bring to class, or we can set up an appointment for you to shop at the DWJ HQ. Another option is to look online where there is a wealth of material available for purchase. Through the internet you will be able to access a wider selection as well as competitive prices but beware of poor quality and high oversees shipping costs.

What do you recommend?
As you search, you will find what suits you best. Here are just a few items to get you started.
To learn:
Introduction to Bellydance Technique (Nourhan Sharif) VHS/DVD of bellydance moves-Great for ALL levels!
To listen:
Arabic Rhythms Vol. Wahid (Nourhan Sharif)
CD introducing the basic Arabic rhythms played at various tempos-made for the dancer!
Bellydance Superstars (Various Artists) many volumes to choose from!
CD collection of classical and contemporary music--put together by the Bellydance Superstars themselves!
To watch:
Bellydance Superstars
VHS/DVD of the hottest American dancers of our time--watch the music from the CD come alive!