Duniya Studio

Dance Lessons

We offer various options for dance lessons:

 

Class Levels & Descriptions — Find Your Perfect Bellydance Journey

At Duniya Studio, we’ve created a thoughtful class progression through multiple levels, allowing dancers to build skills gradually while deepening technique, musicality, and expression.

Our classes emphasize strong foundations, cultural understanding, musical awareness, expressive confidence, and joy in movement. Students are encouraged to take their time at each level, revisit fundamentals when helpful, and progress in a way that supports long-term growth. Instructors are always happy to help you choose the level that best matches your experience and goals.


Level 1 — Basic Beginner Bellydance

Ideal for dancers who are brand new.

This foundational level introduces the essential building blocks of Raqs Sharqi (Bellydance) in a supportive and accessible environment. Classes focus on:

  • Posture, alignment, and body awareness
  • Core movements and foundational technique
  • Simple transitions and movement vocabulary
  • Introduction to Middle Eastern rhythms and musical structure

Choreography is not emphasized in this level. The focus is on establishing comfort, confidence, and a strong technical base that will support future progression. No prior dance experience is required. This is also a great class to take for those who have prior experience and want to review and continue to polish their basic technique. Students may benefit from taking this level for multiple sessions before moving to a higher level, or taking this level in conjunction with other levels for a more complete learning experience.


Level 2 — Beginner-Intermediate Bellydance

For dancers ready to expand their movement vocabulary.

Level 2 builds directly on foundational skills while introducing more variety and complexity. Students will work on:

  • Expanded movement combinations
  • Layering and rhythm variations
  • Introduction to props such as veil, assaya (cane), or sagat (finger cymbals)
  • Developing musical awareness and early improvisational skills

This level may include choreography as a way to apply technique, musicality, and expressive movement within a structured format. Students may benefit from taking this level for multiple sessions before moving to a higher level, or taking this level in conjunction with other levels for a more complete learning experience.


Level 3 — Intermediate Bellydance

Refine technique and deepen expression.

At this level, dancers focus on clarity, control, and musical interpretation. Classes explore:

  • More complex combinations and layered movements
  • Continued prop work, including veil, sagat, assaya, and additional props such as Isis wings or sword
  • Deeper engagement with rhythms, phrasing, and regional styles
  • Developing confidence in improvisation and expressive choices

Choreography continues to support performance readiness and artistic development. Students may benefit from taking this level for multiple sessions before moving to a higher level, or taking this level in conjunction with other levels for a more complete learning experience.


Level 4 — Advanced Bellydance

For experienced dancers seeking greater depth and challenge.

Advanced classes emphasize integration of technique, musicality, and performance quality. Students can expect:

  • Dynamic layering and intricate transitions
  • Advanced prop work such as melaya leff, tray, and shamadan
  • Exploration of stylistic nuance and performance presence
  • Working with a variety of Middle Eastern musical genres

Choreography at this level is more demanding and may support stage preparation or personal artistic growth. This level is the top student level and intended for those who wish to continue developing their dance for many years; there is no goal to “level out” of level 4 –  the journey is ongoing indefinately.  Students may benefit from taking this level in conjunction with other levels for a more complete learning experience.


Advanced Tracks

(by invitation or following discussion with your teacher)

 

Level 5 — Professional Performance Track

For dancers pursuing professional-level performance.

This track supports dancers who are developing as performers, and intend to work professionally as a dancer.  this olevel includes focused training in:

  • Advanced choreography and improvisation
  • Musical interpretation across styles and rhythms
  • Stage presence and audience connection
  • Performance preparation for weddings, festivals, and professional venues
  • Artistic identity and practical performance considerations
  • Business practices and professional ethics

Instructor recommendation or audition may be required. This level is only offered accasionally if there are sufficient advanced students who have requested it. 


Level 6 — Teacher Training Track

For dancers preparing to teach and mentor others.

This training path focuses on developing strong, ethical, and effective teachers. Areas of study include:

  • Teaching methodology and skill breakdown
  • Safe movement practices and injury prevention
  • Curriculum design and class structure
  • Cultural context, representation, and responsibility
  • Practice teaching with guided feedback
  • Business practices and professional ethics

This track is designed for dancers ready to lead with clarity, care, and respect for the dance. This level is only offered accasionally if there are sufficient advanced students who have requested it.


Choosing the Right Level

Every dancer’s journey is unique. Progression through levels is not rushed, and students are encouraged to spend adequate time building skills at each stage. You may also choose to take classes across levels to support your learning.

If you are unsure where to start, your instructor can help guide you toward the level that will best support your development.


Ready to Dance?

Whether your goals include fitness, creative expression, cultural appreciation, or artistic growth, there is a place for you at Duniya Studio. We invite you to explore Bellydance through a progression designed to support you at every stage.

Registration for classes, and purchase of drop-in packages is done through our online student portal, you can click “register” by the class of your choice below, or just contact us and we’ll get it all sorted out for you.

 

Current Schedule