Join Amanda and the members of Venus Rising for an intro Bellydance class! We will be learning the group improvisational format pioneered by FatChance Bellydance over 6 weeks followed by a celebration where you'll have the opportunity to dance in community together. This style originates in California in the late 80's with heavy inspiration from the Renaissance Faires and a blending of multiple folkloric styles of dance from across North Africa and the Middle East. It is known for earthy movements drawn from a variety of influences including Raqs Sharqi, Rajasthani dance, and Flamenco. The format evolved in performance spaces like cafes and festivals - places where staging or location might change last minute - resulting in a language of cues and formations to facilitate group improvisation. We will be learning the foundations of both Fast (rhythmic and exuberant) and Slow (melodic and dramatic) families of movement.

Classes run on Mondays, from June 8, 2026 to July 20th, at the Empire Arts Center.

Classes will run from 7:00-8:30 with additional time for questions or discussions. Each class will include: warm up, technique deconstruction, drills, history and cultural notes, and cool down. No dance experience necessary - we will be learning from the ground up! No specific gear is required, but we recommend athletic clothes or dance wear that will not restrict movement and dance shoes. Some handouts will be available, but taking notes is highly encouraged.