Ahlan wa sahlan!  Welcome!

Please read this entire class page so that you will know what to expect when signing up and taking classes.  Everything you need to know is right here!

Our classes are for everyone - all shapes and sizes!  Our "simple-ography" makes everyone feel a part of a group no matter what level you are on!  Belly dance is great exercise while giving you self-esteem and self-worth!  Enjoy a unity in dance as we express ourselves in a positive environment.  Everyone is a winner in our non-competitive atmosphere. 

No negative energy is allowed in the studio. During your dance journey, it is very important to clear your negative energy.  Bad energy can build up causing illness and disease to manifest toxically in your mind, body and soul.  During clearing space, stagnant energy is eliminated and replaced with a lively, vibrant energy flow.

Scared to take classes?  Don't be.  Fear of the unknown is typical, but in my studio, there is nothing to worry about.  Rhythmic Essence strives to provide you with a stress-free learning experience without competition or drama.   Ladies of all shapes, sizes and ages come to Rhythmic Essence to be apart of a true unity in dance.  Remember, mean people suck, so if you are a negative and/or drama-driven person, please don't bother joining us!

Our Motto:  No Stress, No Drama, No Competition......A Unity in Dance!

What is Belly Dance (Middle Eastern Dance)?

Middle Eastern Dance can trace its history back to over 6000 years ago, with the Egyptians, Turks, and Phoenicians.  These dances were originally performed as fertility dances, temple dances, birthing and celebratory dances and for festive occasions in their community.  The men lived in one side of the house, while the women and children occupied the other end.  The word “harem” did not refer to a chamber of women awaiting a man’s companionship.  Instead, it refers to the section of the house where the women carried out their day to day tasks such as cooking, sewing and taking care of the children.  The word “harem” comes from the word “haram” which means “forbidden.”  Men who were not part of the immediate family were forbidden to enter the women’s quarters.

In the villages, women danced with other women in social gatherings.  Young girls were brought up with these dances as part of their culture. The women would dance in a circle, taking turns or doing solos, showing off their grace and beauty being cheered on by others in the group. When a young girl danced for the first time with the elders, it was a rite of passage into womanhood.  Dance steps involved circular hip movements and even moves depicting camels and horses were added by Gypsies and Bedouin (desert) women.  Versions of these dances spread to Africa, where tribal women danced earning coins.  As the dance spread to Rome, Spain and India, each tribe developed its unique style. 

America was first introduced to belly dance at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893, by the performance of an Egyptian dancer named “Little Egypt.” Americans fell in love with the dance and costuming as they were used to tight corsets and modesty.  This liberating moment was the beginning of belly dance in America!

In the Golden Era, Egyptian dance stars were born thanks to the early days of the Egyptian Film Industry.  Samia Gamal, Tahia Carioca and Keti were instant stars that inspired the sequined bra/belt sets you still see today in the dance.  Costuming changed drastically thanks to the film industry.  The art form that was once danced in gowns and cotton skirts, was replaced by sequins and chiffon.

American belly dance is unique in that its present form has been shaped by so many different cultural influences and traditions. It is constantly evolving, as new dances are introduced to the community, and for this reason it has a remarkable variety.


~ Benefits of the Dance ~
 Belly dance is a great alternative to high-impact aerobics.  It increases flexibility, great for the cardiovascular system, aids in digestion and creates a stronger core.  It is a true source of life-changing enthusiasm for all who practice it faithfully.  It is highly artistic, spiritual and emotional.  It is an ideal way to stay in touch with your body.
Current Class Session Schedule
 

--------------------------------------Monday’s at Charles Mack Citizen Center - Mooresville, NC----------------------------------------
6:00-7:00pm Mooresville Troupe - Orientale Element Bouquet........................................... Troupe Members Only
7:00-8:00pm Beginner/Intermediate Belly Dance - Pulse8 ................................................... FULL



----------------------------------------Tuesday’s at the Newton Studio - 120 N Main Ave, Newton------------------------------------------
5:30-6:30pm Newton Troupe - Pharaonic Wave ................................................................... Troupe Members Only
6:30-7:30pm Fire Element Belly Dance..................................................................................... Advanced  Students Only
7:30-8:30pm Beginner Belly Dance -  Pulse8 ......................................................................... FULL


---------------------------------------Wednesdays’s at the Newton Studio - 120 N Main Ave, Newton-------------------------------------
5:30-6:30pm Tribal Advanced - New Choreography & Earth Element .............................. Advanced  Students Only
6:30-7:30pm Fire Element Belly Dance .................................................................................... Advanced  Students Only

Recital Dates
Recital Show Dates *** $5.00 ALL SEATS***
NCA Theater - Sat., June 23rd, 2012
Doors open at 5:30pm / Show starts at 6:00pm / Reception Follows

Rates and Payments

Payments are due the first class of the month.  There will be a $10 late fee on all class fees not paid by the first week of the month. 

Rhythmic Essence has a "Flat Rate Per Month" Policy. You pay that amount regardless if you miss classes during the month to remain an active student.

There will be a $25 processing fee on all returned checks. 

No refunds on classes purchased. 

Only one discount applies. 

Classes

 Fees (No Refunds)
   

1 Class a week.................................................................

 $35.00 Flat Rate Per Month
2 Classes a week............................................................. $55.00 Flat Rate Per Month
Mother / Teen Daughter Discount.............................. $55.00 Flat Rate Per Month
Mother / Two Daughter's Discount............................. $75.00 Flat Rate Per Month
Individual Private Lesson............................................. $50.00 an Hour (Offered to my current students only)
Group Private Lesson  / "Girl's Night Out"................. $150.00 an Hour in Studio ($200 Offsite)
Birthday Group Lesson.................................................. $150.00 an Hour in Studio ($200 Offsite)
Belly Gram........................................................................ $125.00

 

What to Wear in Class

  • Wear comfortable workout clothing.  A hip scarf for class is recommended, but not required.  We will dance barefoot (or you can wear appropriate dance shoes).  No street shoes in the Newton studio.  Please read over Class Descriptions below so you will be prepared for class with proper attire and props (if applicable).  Feel free to take dance notes on technique and choreography in class.  Not all classes have printed handouts.  Please read studio rules and polices below. 

Class Descriptions

Beginner Belly Dance at the Newton Studio or Mooresville Location - Pulse8

Learn basics of Middle Eastern Dance!  This class focuses on posture, control and isolation, moves and combos.  Must have beginners to move on to other classes.  Dress comfortably in workout type clothing. 

Recommendations for Class (Optional):
 Hip scarf/coin belt and skirt.  Some are sold in the studio or you can try Ebay or search on my Links.  Zils are optional.  See zil requirements below.

If Performing
Affordable Costumes For the Beginner Class
 Skirt & Choli Set by Sharifwear
 Costumes by Miss Belly Dance
 Affordable Egyptian Costumes on Belly Dance Store Biz
Try searching on Ebay
Rather try on?  Visit the Belly Dance Store in Charlotte, NC!
 Plus Size Costuming
Don't want to show your belly?  Try a power net body stocking!

 

Rhythmic Essence's Tribal Style & Earth Element Dance
 

Required To Performances:

  • 15 or 25 yard COTTON Skirt (Any color) -OR- Tribal pants (black)

  • Tribal Bra - Use real authentic coins only

  • Tribal Choli  (Black preferred)

  • Tribal Belt

  • Black Harem Pants (or long black leggins)

  • Appropriate jewelry, makeup, hair decorations, or headpieces. 

  • Tribe Markings (For ornamental only)

  • Required Zils
    High Quality Student Zils (Not cheap ones on ebay)
    I recommended:
     http://www.saroyanzils.com (Order "Nefertiti MC-100")
    • Go to http://www.saroyanzils.com
    • Click on "Online Store"
    • Click on "Students and Advanced Dancers"
    • Order "Nefertiti MC-100" (The first set on that page)


 
Other classes we often offer:

Chinese Feather Fan Tribal Fusion
Isis Wings Dance

Bollywood/Bhangra Fusion
Pharaonic Candle Dance

Gypsy Feather Fan
Folkloric Fellahin

Polynesian Dance
Modern Hagalla


Sword Dance
Melaya Leff


Saidi Cane Dance

Studio Rules
A Belly Dance community is all about positive energy and a sisterly respect to each other.  I take that very serious and want to ensure a harmonious experience for you.  Here are a few rules you must uphold based on respect to me and to your fellow dancers to remain a dancer with Rhythmic Essence. 

Ø      I have a right to refuse services to inconsistent students, students with an outstanding balance, drama driven, bad attitudes, disruptive or those who do not meet the performance costume requirements.  I have built the studio upon your best interest and work very hard to provide my students with a positive, non-competitive environment and will ask anyone to leave who inhibits that.

Ø      No "observers" are permitted to view or sit in on classes.  Class space is limited and this can cause distractions and makes new dancers feel uncomfortable while they are in learning process.

Ø      I do not offer babysitting so please don't ask if your child can stay during class times. 

Ø      No visitors will be allowed to linger in the dance room or waiting area while classes are being held. The waiting room is for students arriving a few minutes before their class session starts, and will not be used as a lounge area for kids, parents, husbands/boyfriends, etc. while classes are being held. Please make arrangements so this will not be an issue.  No un-enrolled students are allowed in the studio.

Ø      No refunds or pro-rated discounts of any kind unless classes are canceled on my behalf.  Rhythmic Essence Classes are  "Flat Rate Per Month."   You pay that amount regardless if you miss classes during the month to remain an active student. 

Ø      Material is subject to copyright.  Years of time, expense, training and experience have gone into my teachings and cannot be used without my permission.  Failure to cooperate will end in a permanent dismissal from the studio.  No outside video cameras are allowed during recitals and shows. 

Ø      There will be a $10 late fee on all class fees not paid by the first week of the month. 

Ø      There will be a $25 processing fee added to all returned checks.

Ø      Recitals are open to current students only. 

Ø      I respect your privacy.  I do not give personal information such as email address or phone numbers of other students, so please don't ask. 

Ø      No merchandise is to be taken from the studio unless paid for in full or a deposit is secured. I will be happy to hold items for a week.

Ø      All dancers should carry a positive attitude! No negative energy allowed. Please uphold our non-competitive atmosphere! 

tribal