Sahara Dance

Performance Classes

Be part of our Summer "Performance Lite" combinations classes: No blocking, no costumes--just party clothes and a hip scarf! Learn a fun choreography and practice performing in an informal, dance party setting. ;) Join us for a great summer workout and a strong complement to technique classes!

Or, be part of the full Performance Class experience and be featured in the annual summer showcase!

Not sure a performance class is for you? Here are some reasons to try give it a try:

Summer "Performance Lite" combinations classes will have the opportunity to perform at the Sahara Dance Salon / Hafla at Pasha Lounge on July 12th, 2008. After the Salon / Hafla, combinations class students will continue to learn new dances and practice performing in the studio.

Summer Showcase Performance classes culminate in our annual Summer Student Showcase on August 17. Choreography for the performance classes will be taught based on the corresponding technique classes; the performance classes will be dedicated to revising, rehearsing and blocking pieces for performance at the end of the semester.

Beginner II Belly Dance Combinations

Experience the joy and beauty of this ancient art while getting a workout. Learn combinations of shimmies, accents and undulations set to contemporary and classical Middle Eastern music. This class is designed to help students piece together Beginner II movements and feel the music within each dance.

Special attention will be given to mastering graceful transitions and discovering authentic, joyful expression while dancing. This class is ideal for those seeking a high energy, fun workout, practice performing and a complement to Sahara Dance technique classes. Students will have the opportunity to perform a class combination at the Sahara Dance Salon / Hafla on July 12 at Pasha lounge.

Prerequisites: Completion of two semesters Beginner I / Beginner II Technique or one semester Beginner II Technique; concurrent enrollment in Beginner II Technique recommended.

Low Intermediate Belly Dance Combinations

Experience the joy and beauty of this ancient art while getting a workout. Learn combinations of shimmies, accents and undulations set to contemporary and classical Middle Eastern music. This class is designed to help students piece together Low Intermediate movements and feel the music within each dance.

Special attention will be given to mastering graceful transitions and discovering authentic, joyful expression while dancing. This class is ideal for those seeking a high energy, fun workout, practice performing and a complement to Sahara Dance technique classes. Students will have the opportunity to perform a class combination at the Sahara Dance Salon / Hafla on July 12 at Pasha lounge.

Prerequisites: Completion of one semester Low Intermediate I Technique; concurrent enrollment in Low Intermediate I Technique or above recommended.

Intermediate Repertoire Performance Class

Designed to prepare students to perform ensemble pieces for stage and to experience the camaraderie of group performances. Participants in this class will continue to refine technique while gaining confidence and performance skills. Choreographies may incorporate zills, veil, or other props. Students the Repetoire Performance Class will perform at the student showcase at the end of the term.

Prerequisites: Low Intermediate Veil and Zills; concurrent enrollment in Intermediate Repertoire Technique class.

Tribal Folkloric Fusion Showcase Performance

Designed to prepare students to join Raqs Caravan West student company. Learn a dance with both choreographed elements and the spontaneity and camaraderie of group improvisation. Specific attention will be given to low intermediate level combinations and tribal props (including sword and/or zills) or a Sahara Dance folkloric fusion (Nubian and/or West African fusion).

Prerequisite: Sahara Dance Low Intermediate III (Zills AND Veil), Introduction to Tribal or permission of instructor / concurrent enrollment in Low Intermediate or above required.

Developing Choreography

Learn the essentials for developing a solo choreography to Middle Eastern music. Explore song selection, musical interpretation, transitions, diagramming music and other keys to creating a dance that dynamically reflects and highlights the music. This intensive class will include homework, videotaped reviews and group feedback to guide each participant’s choreographic process through revision to completion.

Offered in summer semester.

Prerequisite: Completion of the Low Intermediate Belly Dance & above classes; concurrent enrollment in a Technique class.

Introduction to Tribal Performance Class

Designed to prepare students to join Raqs Caravan West student company. Discover the spontaneity and camaraderie of group improvisation while learning the fundamentals of Sahara Dance tribal technique and movement repertoire. Specific attention will be given to transitional cues and formations for leading and following.

Offered in summer and fall semesters.

Prerequisite: Sahara Dance Beginner II Technique or permission of instructor / concurrent enrollment in Low Intermediate or Tribal Technique required.

Sahara Dance Samplers Low Intermediate / Intermediate Combinations

Experience a variety of dance/teaching styles through the exploration of various topics. Each month will focus on a different component of belly dance, including: drum solos, pop music, fusion, and tribal inspired. Low Intermediate / Intermediate students will have the opportunity to perform a class combination at the Sahara Dance Salon / Hafla on July 12 at Pasha lounge.

Prerequisites: Completion of one semester Low Intermediate I Technique; concurrent enrollment in Low Intermediate I Technique or above recommended.