Memphis Raqs - Events

Our classes focus on laying down a solid foundation of basic bellydance technique, including muscular control and isolation, as well as movements and combinations commonly used in tribal style group improvisational dancing. After a few sessions of technique classes, choreographies can be learned to incorporate the techniques previously learned.

Classes are taught inside Dance Oasis Studio, Memphis' only dance studio catered 100% to bellydance!

Intro classes run $40 for 4 weeks, or drop-ins at $15/class. The upper levels of technique are taught in 7 week progressive sessions for $70.

Classes open at 5 students and cap at 10 to ensure adequate personal attention. Once a class caps, we will start a waiting list. A 50% deposit is required to complete registration and reserve your place.

Current Schedule

Class Descriptions

Summer 2009 Schedule

Day Time Class Start Date

Monday 6:00-7:00pm Tribal Improvisation May 25

7:15-8:15pm Advanced technique *invitation only*

Tuesday

Wednesday 6:00-7:00pm Raquy Choreograpy May 27

Thursday 6:00-7:00pm Intro/Beginners ** Open - Drop-ins welcome **

7:15-8:15pm Level 1 Technique May 28

Friday

Saturday

**Our beginner classes are often full. It is a good idea to contact liz@memphisraqs before dropping in to this class to see if there will be room.

TTo register for any of the above classes or workshops, complete the Online Registration Form

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Class Descriptions

Intro to Bellydance If you have always wanted to try a bellydance class, this is the class for you!
This class will be open to anyone who is learning to bellydance for the first time . MR specializes in a style known as tribal fusion bellydance which is known for its very isolated movements, although this fundamentals class will cover all of the basic body isolations and dance technique used in any style of bellydance.
The Intro classes are open and ongoing, allowing students to begin their classes any week of the month and pay $40 for four consecutive weeks. Drop-ins are welcome for $15/class. Once a student feels comfortable with the basic movements (usually 6-8 weeks of Intro) she may begin the Level 1 class.

Level 1 Technique

This class will explore the variations of movements learned in the intro class and take those movements to the next level by putting them together into standard movements and tribal style combinations. Ghawazee 1 & 2,Basic Egyptian, crescent hip circles, traveling choo choo, layering arm movements, etc.

Prerequisite - students must already have a solid foundation of bellydance movements (covered in the Intro class). Students may continue to perfect these basic skills in the Intro class while enrolled in the Level 1 course.

Sessions run for 7 weeks for $70. It is up to the student to be sure she doesn't miss class, as we add new material each week.

Level 2
This class will teach students to put the fundamental movements together into standard tribal style combinations

Prerequisite - Level 1 Technique

Intermediate technique is covered in two parts, 8 weeks each:

Breaking down undulations (both directions), Arabic combos, 3/4 shimmy (up), Choo choos, level changes, etc

Sessions run for 7 weeks for $70. It is up to the student to be sure she doesn't miss class, as we add new material each week.

Level 3 For students who have mastered the intermediate-level techniques and choreographies and are looking for even more of a challenge, the advanced class will cover techniques such as layering, floorwork, partnerwork and advanced combinations.
4/4 shimmies,layering shimmies with various other isolations and combinations, traveling with isolations, paddle spins, etc

Sessions run for 7 weeks for $70. It is up to the student to be sure she doesn't miss class, as we add new material each week.

Tribal Style Improvisation American Tribal Style bellydance is based upon a form of group improvisational dancing based on a vocabulary of moves used with cues and transitions. This improvisational style allows a troupe of women to interact and communicate with the dance in a folkloric, tribal tradition.
This class will show students how the moves and combinations they have learned in technique classes can be used with proper cues to dance ATS improv. Be prepared to be pushed outside your comfort zone and lead the group in dancing!

Troupe/Private Rehearsal

This time will be reserved for troupe rehearsals for upcoming events, or for make-up classes and private lessons.

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