Our classes are held at various studio locations in Ottawa and surrounding areas. Check our contact page for current locations. Full details are provided at registration, including directions and parking information.
Bellydance builds strength, flexibility, balance, endurance and coordination. It also boosts creativity, memory, cultural appreciation and social connection. And it is fun!
These names are all connected n some way but may have slightly different meanings depending on the context in which they are being used. Bellydance is a commonly-recognized English term used internationally for Raqs sharqi which is Arabic for “Eastern dance” and is the name often used in Arabic-speaking regions. Oriental dance (danse orientale in French) is simply another common translation of raqs sharqi, and is widely used in Europe and other parts of the world. Baladi is an Arabic word meaning “of the country” or “my home” and is often used to refer to a folkloric-influenced style of this dance that is more grounded, earthy, and often improvisational. All of these styles are part of the broader tradition of Middle Eastern, or South-West Asian and North African, dance. It is not a codified dance style, and there is no official body who publishes a syllabus, so it can sometimes be confusing for people who are new, but don’t worry, you’ll catch the meaning of things with our help.
Email us anytime and we will be happy to help.
If you have less than one full year of previous Bellydance class experience take Level 1 Beginner
Those with experience in other dance styles still start with Level 1 Beginner to learn the posture, movement vocabulary, and styling that unique to this dance form, but with teacher’s guidance may move up quickly if they have strong sense of proprioception (body awareness).
If you grew up dancing raqs sharqi/baladi socially, we still recommend you start with Level 1 Beginner to learn the dance class structure and safe body technique, but with teacher’s guidance you may move up quickly due to having musical and cultural context foundations.
Read the details about our class levels here: https://duniyastudio.com/about-us/about-raqs-sharqi-duniya-classes/. While everyone learns at different speeds, we typically recommend taking a few sessions of each level before progressing to the next level.
Yes. If you register for one level, you’re welcome to attend other levels to see which feels like the best fit. If you decide to switch, we can easily move your registration to another class.
If you’d prefer to try before registering, you can sign up for a trial class (see trial class info below).
Most sessions run 10 to 12 weeks, with one class per week. Exact length may vary depending on season and schedule. Summer sessions tend to be shorter at four to six weeks, while September to June sessions typically run around three months.
Level 1 Beginners focus on technique and movement vocabulary. Levels 2 to 4 Intermediate and advanced students may learn routines and work on improvisation.
Yes. Informal performance opportunities for students are typically available at least twice a year. These recitals are dancer-focussed community events that can be very enjoyable.
No. Performances are optional. We encourage participation but never pressure anyone.
Professional performance requires years of training in dance, music, culture, costuming and audience work. Speak with your teacher if this is a long-term goal.
There are a few ways you can progress even more quickly. Take multiple weekly classes (we have discounts available). Practice on your own regularly to drill your basic movement technique, improve skills, and train your body, plus also improvising for your personal creative inspiration. You can book private lessons or coaching to work on specific skills or projects. We also recommend attending workshops locally, online, or at destination locations (we can make some recommendations). Try learning from a variety of teachers to broaden your perspectives and influences.
Wear comfortable clothes for movement such as yoga wear, dance skirts, crop tops or leotards. Many students dance barefoot, but ballet or gym slippers are recommended to protect your feet. If you need supportive shoes, indoor dance sneakers or similar dance shoes are also welcome. Please, no outdoor shoes are allowed in the studio.
While not required, many students enjoy wearing hip scarves which can be purchased online or sometimes through the studio.
We also have Duniya Studio t-shirts and rhinestone iron-ons available for sale. They are sparkly and fun, and guaranteed to get you many compliments any time you wear it!
While not required, many students enjoy wearing hip scarves which can be purchased online or sometimes through the studio. Additional props are sometimes used in levels 2 to 4, such as veils, finger cymbals, or sticks. These can be purchased online or through the studio. You’ll always be given a heads up if we’re planning to use any special props. For performances (if you wish), group costumes may be arranged through discussion with participants.
The easiest way to register is through our online portal (detailed instructions are available here: https://duniyastudio.com/how-to-register-for-classes-at-duniya-studio/), where you can pay securely by credit card. We also accept e-transfer (info@duniyastudio.com), cash, cheque or credit card in person.
Note: Some of our classes are run through the City of Ottawa, which requires separate registration. You can still join our online portal to receive class files and email notifications (detailed instructions on how to register with the city will be sent to your email when you sign up in our portal). We acknowledge that having to register in two places can be a little confusing (sorry!), but the main thing you need to know for the City of Ottawa classes at Shenkman is to register through the City to pay and be put on the official class list, and register (for no cost) with us to be on our contact list for the class. We explain that all in a dedicated post here: https://duniyastudio.com/?p=3873
If you have any trouble registering, email us and we will be happy to help.
Sorry for any confusion! We organize and run our own classes in Kanata, and those are registered and paid for directly through the Duniya Studio student portal.
Our Orléans classes, however, are offered through the City of Ottawa at the Shenkman Arts Centre. For those classes, the City is responsible for official registration and payment.
Even if you are taking classes in Orléans, we still ask you to sign up in our student portal. This is free and does not replace City registration. We use the portal to:
In short: City registration handles payment and enrolment for Orléans classes, and our portal helps us stay connected with you as your teachers.
We use Studio Pro, a secure administrative and student portal designed for dance and fitness studios. Your information is private and never shared with third parties. You will only receive:
No spam, just relevant communication.
Yes! If you discover that a different level would be a better fit, we can switch your registration to another class. Just let us know and we will make the adjustment.
Yes! For classes run by Duniya Studio (not City of Ottawa classes; sorry)
Yes! We have both digital and plastic (credit card sized) options available. Gift certificates are available and can be applied toward sessions (except City of Ottawa classes), drop-ins, workshops, or merchandise. They make great presents for dance enthusiasts.
Registration fees for classes and workshops, and class drop-in packages are non-refundable. In some cases for exceptional circumstances, we may agree to transfer your registration to a different class or a future session, transfer your class or workshop registration to another person, or convert a session registration into drop-ins that can carry over to a future session. Email us to discuss options if you have special circumstances that need accommodating.
Yes. We can prorate registration fees for the number of remaining weeks, or recommend drop-ins depending on how many weeks have passed.
In this case, a drop-in package would be preferable. Unfortunately, the way our system works we cannot process partial registration from the start of a session.
Drop-in packages may be a better fit if you know you will miss classes often.
If you miss a class in a regular session, you may attend a make-up class within the same session with prior arrangement from the teacher/studio admin.
If class is still running but you choose not to attend due to weather or personal reasons, no credits or refunds can be issued. You may arrange with the teacher/studio admin to attend a make-up class in one of our other classes within the same session.
If we cancel due to weather, power outage, or other unforeseen issues, you will receive either a make-up class or a credit to your account.
If you miss two classes in a row, we will send an email to check on you to make sure everything is ok. Don’t be shy to email us if you have any concerns about the classes.
Registration fees are not refundable if you stop coming to class. In some special cases, we may agree to transfer your registration to a different class or a future session, or convert it into drop-ins. Email us to discuss options.
Yes. Trial classes and single drop-ins can be booked in the student portal, or email us to make arrangements. If after your trial drop-in you register for a session, we will apply the trial / drop-in fee toward your session tuition fee.
You can book a trial class (also called a single drop-in) through our student portal, or email us to make arrangements. The trial works just like a drop-in: pay in advance online, then let the teacher know at the start of class so your attendance can be recorded.
If you decide to register for the full session after your trial, the cost of your trial class will be applied toward your session tuition.
For more information about drop-ins and trial options, visit: https://duniyastudio.com/whats-new/duniya-studio-blog/
We do not refund unused classes, but we can extend the expiry if your schedule changes. Email us to arrange.
Yes. If you register for one level, you’re welcome to attend other levels to see which feels like the best fit. If you decide to switch, we can easily move your registration to another class.
If you’d prefer to try before registering, you can sign up for a trial class.
Everyone is welcome, regardless of gender, sex, age, size, race, ethnicity, religion, language, or ability. Respect and inclusivity are our only requirements.
Absolutely! We welcome dancers of all abilities and experience levels. Bellydance is generally a low-impact dance style, with movements based on natural body mechanics, and many movements can be easily modified to suit your individual needs.
You are always welcome to take a break, sit and observe, or modify an exercise as needed. There is no expectation that you keep up with anyone else; you set your own pace and participate in whatever way feels right for your body that day.
If you have a specific injury, mobility consideration, or movement modification that your teacher should know about, please let them know before or during class so they can help you find appropriate adaptations.
You know your own body best. Listen to it, respect its limits, and give yourself permission to participate in a way that works for you.
While classes are open to all genders, experience has shown us that most of the time the people who choose to join are all women. If you prefer women-only spaces, let us know so we can confirm who is registered in the class of your choice, or recommend options for other women-only spaces.
Yes! While we don’t ban men from taking classes, 99.9% of the time our classes are women-only because that’s who signs up. We ensure privacy by closing doors and window blinds, so the studio space is modest and comfortable for those who wear hijab. You can email us before the start of class to confirm that only women are registered in the class you plan on taking.
Yes, if mature enough to join adult classes with Duniya Studio. A parent or guardian must sign the registration form. Participants under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Unfortunately City of Ottawa classes are limited to adults at this time. Contact us to find an alternative arrangement that works for you; we can work something out.
At this time we mainly offer adult classes. However, teens/youth may join Duniya Studio adult classes if they mature enough and accompanied by an adult. Private family classes may be arranged upon request.
Classes are primarily taught in English. Jocelyne, Louise, and Alessandra also speak French, while Cathy speaks Arabic and some Spanish.
And don’t worry if English isn’t your first language; we’re pretty good at communicating through demonstrations, too! We use lots of visual instruction and wordless demonstrations, so language should hopefully not be a barrier to enjoying class and learning to dance.
Absolutely not! This dance style is enjoyed and studied by people all over the world. You don’t need any particular cultural background or previous dance experience to join a Duniya class.
Our focus is on teaching Raqs sharqi (often called bellydance, baladi, or Oriental dance) and related folk and folkloric dance traditions from Southwest Asian and North African (also called SWANA or Middle-Eastern), as well as Turkish and Greek cultures with an understanding of their musical, cultural, and historical roots.
We believe that learning about the origins of this dance makes the experience richer and more joyful, helps us dance with greater musicality and expression, and gives us a deeper appreciation for the artists and communities who have shaped these traditions.
Bottom line is that you don’t have to be from the culture to enjoy and learn this dance. What matters is approaching it with curiosity, respect, and an appreciation for its roots. Come ready to dance, and we’ll help you learn the rest.
Yes! We offer private and semi-private lessons, as well as custom lesson-parties for birthdays, community events, or corporate activities. Our teachers are also available to come teach a workshop to your dance community at your location. Contact us to discuss options.
A “Dance Lesson-Party” is a fun, group dance class arranged for special events — such as bachelorette parties, bridal or baby showers, birthdays, ladies’-night gatherings, graduations, team-building events, or simply a joyful outing with friends. It brings an upbeat, festive dance experience straight to your celebration.
The basic Lesson-Party runs 40–50 minutes with one instructor.
You can also add:
We (the studio) provide the instructor and all dance props (such as hip-scarves and veils). You (the host) provide your guests and a suitable space. If you have a preferred sound system, you can use it. If you do not have space and a sound system, rental can be arranged for a fee.
Yes. For a fee, a short performance in costume can be added to your event to create an exciting highlight before or after the group lesson.
Yes. If you don’t have a venue available, we can arrange a studio rental (subject to sutdio availability). A sound system can also be provided if needed. Fees may apply for studio and sound system rentals.
We offer Lesson-Parties for women-only groups as well as mixed-gender events. You’re welcome to choose whichever format best suits your guests and occasion.
All events are confirmed through a written contract. The contract outlines:
Cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice. Reschedules may be possible. Deposits are non-refundable, and late cancellations may be charged in full.
As early as possible. Instructor availability, studio rental availability, and optional extras such as performances or extra instructors are all subject to scheduling, so early booking ensures you get your preferred setup.
You can hire a dancer for a wide range of celebrations — weddings, family gatherings, birthdays, corporate events, cultural festivals, restaurant-style shows, galas, and community events. All performances are tailored to be culturally respectful and family-friendly.
Please note that we do not perform for all-male audiences or bachelor parties, in keeping with our studio’s values and safety policies.
We offer a variety of dance styles and performance options, including classic Raqs Sharqi (also known as Bellydance / Oriental dance), modern bellydance (Arabic/Turkish/popular-fusion), as well as folkloric and regional dances such as Egyptian folkloric (e.g., candelabra processions, cane-dance, whirling skirts), Lebanese folk (Dabke), and Arab Gulf (Khaleegy). Props such as veils, sticks, finger-cymbals, sword, Isis wings, candle trays and more may be used, depending on the event and availability.
We strongly recommend contacting us well in advance, especially if you want a specialty number or a group performance. Some dance styles and prop-heavy or ensemble pieces require additional preparation and rehearsal time.
When you reach out, we’ll ask for details such as:
Once details are confirmed, we send a written contract outlining performance time, fees, deposit/payment schedule, performer requirements (dance space, sound system, changing area), cancellation policy, and other terms.
To ensure a smooth performance, we require:
Your booking is secured with a signed contract. Cancellations require at least 48 hours’ notice. Reschedules may be possible with advanced notice. Deposits are non-refundable, and late cancellations are subject to the full contracted fee.
We believe in transparency, respect, and fairness — for clients and performers. Publishing our rates removes the uncomfortable “negotiation” dynamic, protects performers from undervaluation, and helps clients understand exactly what goes into a professional performance. It also supports our commitment to welcoming new dancers into the community by clarifying expectations and preventing unintentional undercutting.
At Duniya Studio, our openly published rates help avoid uncomfortable negotiation and ensure a respectful, professional interaction from the start. While we respect that bargaining is commin in many cultures, we set our rates as skilled professionals in our craft. Our pricing reflects the preparation, time, travel, and artistry required for a quality performance, so rates are firm.
We’re happy to discuss custom options. Specialty requests, group performances, live music, or elaborate props may require additional planning and rehearsal time. Please contact us early to explore what’s possible.
For both deposits and final payments, we accept credit card or e-transfer. Final payment by these methods is due the day before the scheduled performance.
If you prefer to pay the final balance in cash, you may do so directly to the performer upon arrival and before the performance takes place.
Simply reach out through the contact information listed on our “Hire a Dancer” page with your event details. We’ll follow up with availability, options, and next steps for contract, deposit, and performance confirmation.