Belly Dancing Lessons in Spokane, Washington

I recently became interested in belly dance after seeing the fabulous Shakira shake her stuff all over my television screen. I wanted to be able to look that glorious and free, too, so I ordered some belly dancing DVDs. They were a great way to start, but I soon discovered I wanted the personal attention that only live belly dance lessons could give me. I was surprised to find a great selection of lessons and styles in Spokane, and I have been to several. No matter what your level - a beginner or an experienced dancer, there are many options available to you.

Nadiyah's
Nadiyah's (www.nadiyahs.com) is a wonderful dance studio that offers belly dancing to people of all colors, sizes, levels and shapes. Classes take place at The Warehouse at 800 N. Hamilton Avenue (right by Gonzaga University). There are several classes to choose from, starting with drills and going up to choreography. Prices are usually about $15 per class if you pay as you go, or $10 per class if you pay for a series of weeks. As plus-size belly dancer, I am always a little bit nervous when going to a class, wondering if I will be made fun of. At Nadiyah's, however, there really is a variety of shapes and sizes, and I was encouraged to feel great about my body! I love all the different techniques, and she offers the ease of signing up online and paying through Paypal. Anyone from age 12 -100 can join (I take my 14 year old daughter). I highly, highly recommend!

Spokane Community Colleges - IEL
The Institute for Extended Learning offers belly dancing classes throughout the year for a great price. They are usually offered at Shadle Park or Ferris High School and at CenterPlace in Spokane Valley. They are led by different instructors and usually cater to beginning-level dancers, and you must be at least 18 years old. The cost for these classes is $49 for about 6 weeks of class. The classes usually take place in the evening to accommodate work schedules. To get the latest information about the most current or upcoming classes, call the IEL at (509)279-6000. I have taken a few of these classes and always have a good time!

A'isha Azar
A'isha (www.raqsazar.com) teaches both public and private lessons in Egyptian belly dance. Her classes are located at A Time to Dance Studio at 3815 N. Post in Spokane. The beginning belly dance class is held on Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:30. More advanced classes are located on Sundays and Mondays, and A'isha also offers various classes in costuming. You can join these classes at any time of the year. For more information, call A'isha at (509)327-9204.

While there are many great options for belly dance lessons, my personal favorite is Nadiyah's, just because I feel so comfortable there and the variety of classes is pretty amazing. No matter which class you choose, you are sure to have a great time and get some gorgeous curves in your hips, belly and waist. You will be looking like Shakira in no time!