More About Belly Dance Classes

Classes are held on Thursday nights 7.30 at Croydon and Saturdays 12noon at Hurstville.
Click here for info on joining a class.

Cabaret Arabia Dance classes started at Jump St Dance Studio in Hurstville almost four years ago. Since that time, we have run classes from beginners up to intermediate level and students have had the opportunity to show off their new skills by dancing at many festivals and events in Sydney including:

The Jump St Dance concert at the Revesby Workers Club
The Cruelty Free Festival Petersham Town Hall
Festival Follies Middle Eastern Dance Festival Marrickville Community Centre
Festival Follies Middle Eastern Dance Festival Marrickville Town Hall
Miranda North Fete
Charity Event for Free the Bears
Kurnell Festival

Is there any age limit for belly dancing?
No there are no limits as long as you are reasonably healthy and have no serious injuries. If you have had injuries or have been ill it’s best if you check with your medical practitioner first to see if this kind of exercise would be OK for you. We have had children in our classes as young as 6 and adults in their 70’s.

What do I wear to class?
Anything that feels comfortable is fine. We recommend dance pants or tights and a small top and bare feet but if you feel more comfortable in a t shirt or a skirt then that’s fine. If you have a hip scarf, feel free to wear it – it will make the experience that much more authentic. Bare feet in summer, jazz shoes or jiffies in winter. Always bring a bottle of water, and in summer perhaps a sports drink as you need to stay hydrated.

I’m a bit older so I don’t know if it’s suitable for me.
We have had women in our class in their 60’s and 70’s. Simply participate to the extent that feels comfortable. You can sit down for parts of the class and watch if you feel it’s a bit too strenuous or if you get tired.

I don’t feel comfortable showing my tummy.
The great thing about belly dancing is the long tradition of acceptance of women of all shapes and sizes, however if you feel uncomfortable in a midriff top you can wear a long singlet, t-shirt or anything that feels comfortable. Many large women learn belly dance and become professional dancers.

Can I come along and just try one class to see if I like it?
Yes. We have single class rates.

Do I have to eventually perform if I learn belly dance?
Absolutely not. Many people just lke to come to class for fun, fitness, to learn a new skill or enjoy the social aspect of meeting new people. You can come to class for as long as you like and not perform.

What if I want to perform? What do I have to do?
Come along to class regularly and learn some of the choreographies that will be practiced in class. If you think you’d like to perform at an upcoming festival, let your teacher know. You will need to know the dance fairly well and also come along to rehearsals which will be in addition to your normal class. Your teacher will advise you in advance if rehearsals are needed and approximately how many. You will also need to buy or make a simple costume. This can cost as little as $50 and your teacher will give advice on this.

What if I want to learn to be a professional belly dancer?
To become a professional dancer usually takes most people a number of years of solid training (with the exception of those rare few who have exceptional natural talent). The best way to start is to do as many classes as you can and get involved in performing at festivals so you get the experience of dancing in front of an audience. Professional dancing also requires investment in training as well as the purchasing of authentic costumes (which can range from $400 to over a $1,000 each).