What should I wear to class?

The main thing in class is that you feel comfortable and that I can see the movements you are making, so it's best to wear leggings, and a sports bra or other top that gives you a lot of support. I generally dance barefoot, but you can wear dance shoes (i.e. ballet slippers or Hermes sandles). Bring something to tie around your hips, like a chiffon scarf. There is no need to reveal your belly, but your top should be fitted well enough that you can see your movements.

Does it matter if I'm a few minutes late?

Each class begins with a thorough warm-up, which raises you body temperature, warming your muscles and mobilizing the joints to prepare the body for dancing. This is a crucial part of the class, and missing this could increase your chance of injury. It is very important to be on-time for the warm-up! I am at the studio at least 10 minutes before the beginning of a class so don't worry about arriving a few minutes early! On the other hand, it's better to come late and do a few warm-ups before you start dancing, rather than missing an entire class.

Can my friend come and watch the class?

Many people coming to class feel quite self-conscious, without the added pressure of having other people watching them! If your friends want to watch to see whether they would like to try it, I would strongly encourage them to join the class for just one session - that will give them a much better idea!

I want to practice at home...what music do you recommend?

I have compiled a list of recommendations.

How do you keep students up to date?

I have a monthly newsletter that I send out. In addition to my performances, it also lists other Middle Eastern Dance and Music events coming up. You can sign up for this list by going to Sa'eeda's mailing list and filling out the form.

I don't cancel my classes. If I am going out of town, I will tell my classes in advance. I know several excellent dancers that fill in for me. If I'm unwell, I will also get someone to teach the class for me.

Are men allowed in class?

No. I have tried it in the past, and it's too disruptive for the other students. If you know a man who wants to take classes, or if you are a man and interested, private lessons are available.

Do you teach private lessons?

Yes, I do. One of the best ways to get the most out of a private lesson, is have a clear idea of what you want to focus on. For more information about costs for private lessons, please visit my classes page.

How do I find out more about the different styles of bellydance?

This is a subject that is important to understand, but difficult to get dancers to agree to. I will talk about it in class, so just ask. The Wikipedia page is often a subject of contention. Because each dancer interprets the dance the way they want, there is no agreement or single authority. I suggest watching performances by as many different bellydancers as possible, whether in real life or on DVD/video. Morocco (the dancer, not the country) has stills and short descriptions of several important ethnic dances on her website. In addition, there are many articles on this subject. Unfortunately, I can't vouch for the quality of information on any of them. Perhaps I'll try writing an article about this in the future. Hannan Sultan of Toronto has compiled some video clips from YouTube. Scroll down the page to see them. I don't necessarily endorse or agree with her opinions, but the clips are interesting to watch.

What can I do to learn more?

Practice and take more classes. Buy or download some of the recommended music and listen to as music as possible. I also suggest studying with other teachers. Every one has different perspectives and teaching techniques.

Living in Southern California, we are very lucky to have a huge selection of bellydancers, and bellydancing events. To find other teachers that I recommend, subscribe to my newsletter, or send me an email.

Are there any bellydance groups or networks I can join?

Yes, there are lots, including Bhuz, the Westside Belly Dance Meet-up,and Bellydance at Tribe.net, plus more on my links page.