Halanda Studio - for Dance and Fitness

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Introduction to Argentine Tango *NEW*

Argentine Tango (different from Ballroom Tango) originated in Argentina along with the style of music. Popular in the US, Argentine Tango is danced all over in parties known as "Milongas." This style is best known for its improvisational style as opposed to a rigid structure. Smooth, Elegant and Sexy describe this dance. No partner or experience needed!

New series begins Feb. 2.

Times:	Tuesdays 7pm - 8pm
Fees:	$15 drop-in $50 for 4-week series
Register:	Argentine Tango Payments taken in class

Raquel (Ricki) Anaya

Whether you have two left feet and have NEVER danced before or have taken many classes, I can help you learn the secrets to dancing quickly and easily. I explain the dances clearly and demonstrate at a pace anyone can handle. Let me help you get ready for the upcoming holiday season, wedding, or night out on the town. Dancing is a great way to lose weight, keep active, socialize, be close to and make lifelong friends. Other dances include; Weddings, Cumbia, Bachata, Merengue, Cha Cha, & Performances.

For more information, please call Ricki at 408-661-9673 or visit Ricki's website: www.SalsaDanceNow.com

Bellydance Basics *NEW*

Learn and master basic moves for the beautiful artform of Bellydance. We will break down three or four new movements each class, forming them into combinations which will build into a choreography throughout each month-long session. Key Near Eastern rhythms -- a new rhythm each month -- provide the basis for the movements and combinations so students will become familiar with the rhythms that underlie Bellydance. Each class begins with a thorough warm-up and workout to prepare the body for dance, as well as drills to improve isolations.

Perfect for Beginners to Bellydance, as well as Intermediate students who want to improve dance technique. No prior dance experience needed.

PLEASE NOTE: The class on Feb. 6 ONLY will meet 8am-9am.

Tution Policy: Advance payments may not be carried over to the next month, but students may take make-up classes at any of Amanda's classes during the same month.

Times:	Saturdays 9:30am-10:30am
Fees:	$12/class, single class $10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid
Register:	Bellydance Basics Payments taken in class

Amanda

Amanda is co-owner of Halanda Studio. She has over 18 years experience studying and performing Near Eastern Dance, as well as 19 years studying Classical Ballet. She was a member of Alexandra King's Seher Dance Ensemble for five years, and performed extensively throughout California as a Folkloric Dancer with the UCSB Middle East Ensemble, a 60-member university music ensemble under the direction of Dr. Scott Marcus. Amanda has been a member of San Francisco's Hahbi'Ru Dance Ensemble since 1999. She also performed Turkish folk dance with the Yore Folk Dance Ensemble from 2003 through 2006, Algerian dance with Danse Mahgreb in 2004 and 2005, and Bollywood Dance with Naach Duniya from 2006 to 2008. Since 2005, she has performed extensively as a soloist throughout the Bay Area, including performances at the SF/BA MECDA Galas in 2006 and as an invited instructor and performer at the MECDA Hafla in August 2008. In 2008, Amanda formed her own troupe, Karavansaray Dance Company. to present folkloric and Oriental dances of the Near East.

Amanda specializes in Oriental dance (Bellydance) and Turkish dance styles, including Turkish Oryantal, Folk, and Romani Dance. She is accomplished in Oriental, folkloric, and classical dance styles from throughout the Near Eastern world -- from North Africa to the Levant, and from Turkey to Central Asia. Although her dance style is traditional, it often includes modern music, and always a sense of fun.

For more information, please visit Amanda's website: AmandaDancer.com

Bellydance Bootcamp *NEW*

This is a conditioning class for belly dancers. Get ready to dance! We will use a combination of belly dance isolations & standing yoga poses that warm-up, strengthen, and stretch the body. To turn up the cardio, we'll focus on fast drills & traveling. Simple, short combos may be introduced during the last half of class, so that students can put it all together in one dance. A thorough cool down which focuses on flexibility will conclude class. All levels welcome! Wear something comfotrable, and a hip scarf if you've got one!

Times:	Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm
Fees:	First class FREE with purchase of class card (new students only) $15 drop-in $55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months $95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months Class card may be used at any of Ashley's classes in the Bay Area (not applicable to workshops)
Register:	Bellydance Bootcamp Payments taken in class

Ashley Lopez

Ashley is a certified group fitness instructor, registered yoga teacher, and has been instructing fitness and dance classes since 2003. After relocating to the Bay Area, she joined Polynesian troupe SF Hula and then formed her professional award-winning troupe, Orchid Belly Dance. Ashley's main influences and instructors come from the heart of Tribal belly dance in San Francisco: Mira Betz, Rachel Brice, Zoe Jakes, and Jill Parker, among others. She has also studied Latin Dance, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Flamenco, Tahitian, and Hula.

"Teaching is one of my greatest passions. I am so deeply grateful for the wonderful people who attend my classes, workshops and performances. Over the years I have learned so much from and am constantly inspired by the women who dance with me. I believe belly dance is something every woman should try at least once in her lifetime. It is an ancient, cross-cultural art form and folk dance which can be shared casually with friends or professionally on stage. It is beautiful on ANY BODY. I believe in getting to know and love your body as you dance. As an exercise, belly dance can be an incredibly effective way to strengthen the core muscles, arms, and legs as well as build grace in movement, balance and flexibility. Come work up a sweat, get in shape, meet some friends, and laugh a lot!"

For more information, please visit Ashley's website: AshleyLopezBellydance.com

Nia Technique

Nia is perfect for all fitness levels because it is a non-impact cardio workout. It allows for total body fitness. We move to a variety of music using moves from martial arts (like Tai Chi), dance arts (like Jazz Dance), and healing arts (like Yoga) -- yet no experience is necessary because the teacher guides you to move at your level. It is an aerobic workout that helps with the health of the joints and muscles, and at the same time relieves stress and tension. You'll experience familiar workout cycles from warming up to cooling down. Shoes are optional. Nia is so amazingly effective that the movements can be done standing or sitting in a chair. It is recommended participants bring a mat, water, and a towel. For more information about Terre and Nia, including the different cycles of a workout, please visit HelpYouWell.com.

Times:	Mondays 9am - 10am Wednesdays 9am - 10am
Fees:	$12/class, drop-in discounts available for purchase of multiple classes - please see HelpYouWell.com for details
Register:	Nia Technique Payments taken in class

Terre Pruitt

Terre Pruitt is a licensed Nia Teacher, White Belt. Her past dance experiences include Country Western couples dancing where she and her husband participated in dance competitions. Terre has recently removed her cowboy boots to dance bare foot, the dance and workout that is Nia. Terre is also a Certified Personal Trainer with the National Council on Strength and Fitness as well as a certified PiYo Instructor.

For more information, please visit Terre's website: HelpYouWell.com

Dance Elemental

A lively, sacred space created for a unique blend of Freeform Dance, prayers in motion, expressions of passion, yearning, and elation, Dance Elemental is inspired by the ecstatic dance culture as well as various nature-centered spiritual paths. We welcome all to the dance. Open your heart. Free your mind of judgment and fear. Release yourself into the experience of moving your body to thoughtfully chosen, inspiring, and enthralling music. There is no dogma, just a few guidelines for everyone's enjoyment...
1. No talking on the dance floor. (Though some people like to sing quietly to themselves...)
2. Dance however you feel inspired. (Don't worry about what you look like...)
3. Be kind. (To yourself as well as those around you...)
4. Respect the space.

Times:	2nd & 4th Sundays 10:30am - 12pm
Fees:	$10 drop-in $40 for 5-time pass (see facilitators for details)
Register:	Dance Elemental Payments taken at the event

Dakini

Captivating audiences with her spontaneity, charm, and fluidity, Dakini's interpretations are fresh, with a fiery spark, and demonstrate the skills developed over 30+ years of dance experience. She believes in dancing from the heart. Dakini's main focus is on bringing a strong self awareness to the student. Being in touch with your body and how it moves is the first step in letting your own light shine from within. Dakini is also a veteran member of the Veils of the Nile dance company, directed by Aleili -- see www.aleili.com -- which often performs for non-profits and charity benefits.

For more information, please visit Dakini's website: DakiniDreams.net

Fusion Bellydance

This class bears the word "Fusion" because the instructor draws from a blend of techniques -- including Middle Eastern, North African and Central Asian "belly dance," but also some western modern ballet and jazz. This approach allows beginning students to experience a broad range of styles, while giving them a solid foundation in good posture, isolation, musicality and connection with rhythm. Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and stamina are part of the class structure, but are not meant as a measure of your success. Learn how to play the zills/sagat (finger cymbals) along with your first steps into belly dance! There will be an opportunity to purchase zills in class if you don't have them. Please wear non-restrictive clothing and a hip scarf to accent your movements. Water bottle and yoga mat are recommended. Fun is a must!

Times:	Sundays 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Fees:	$12/class, drop-in $10/class, 5 or more
Register:	Fusion Bellydance Payments taken in class

Dakini

For more information, please visit Dakini's website: DakiniDreams.net

Bellydance for Seniors

This special class (for women 55-105) exposes mature students to basic belly dance technique while building a solid foundation in good posture, isolation and connection with rhythm and melody. Improve strength, flexibility, and stamina with gentle low-to-no-impact exercises. Dakini's main focus is on bringing a productive self awareness to the student. Letting your own light shine from within is the goal of this beautiful and transformative art form. Learn to play zills/sagat (finger cymbals)! There will be an opportunity to purchase zills in class if you don't already have them. Please wear non-restrictive clothing and a hip scarf to accent your movements. Water bottle and a yoga mat are highly recommended. (The studio does have light pads for floor work.) Fun is a must!

Cultural background and information about various regional dances will be covered in class as well.

Times:	Mondays 10am - 11am
Fees:	$12/class, drop-in $10/class, 5 or more
Register:	Bellydance for Seniors Payments taken in class

Dakini

For more information, please visit Dakini's website: DakiniDreams.net

Bollywood Dance

You can learn to groove like the Bollywood stars with scintillating music direct from India's dreamy film industry. This energetic class will teach you to dance to the hot and trendy songs. The choreography combines traditional Indian dance and other novel dance moves from around the world. You will learn to dance with facial expressions, hand gestures and footwork. At the end of the series, you will also have the opportunity to perform in colorful costumes at Indian-Fusion Dance Academy's well-attended recitals and other community events.

Please Note: this class is currently on hiatus. If you are interested in this class, please register through the link below and when the class is re-started, we will contact you.

Times:	Mondays 6pm - 7pm
Fees:	$15/class, drop-in $120 for 10 classes First Class Free
Register:	Bollywood Dance Payments taken in class

Selvi Pragasam

Selvi is Director and Founder of Indian-Fusion Dance Academy. Founded in October of 2006, Indian-Fusion Dance Academy has grown rapidly to its present enrollment of 140 students of all age groups. Selvi studied India's ancient classical dance form Bharathanatiyam for over eight years, graduating from the prestigious Kalaikaviri School of Fine Arts, affiliated with Bharathidasan University in Trichy, India. She also learned Mohiniattam, a classical dance from the state of Kerala; folk dances of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujarat, Punjab, and Rajasthan; and Western dance styles which she fuses with her modern Bollywood choreography.

For more information about Selvi and her school, please visit Indian-FusionDance.com

Middle Eastern Bellydance

All Levels
Hala's approach to dance teaching, which has been highly praised by her students, offers the unique opportunity for people of all ages, genders, and skill levels to learn together in the same class. A dance routine blending the basics with more layered moves offers each student a chance to hone skills they already have, perfect the right posture and attitude, and learn new moves as well as new ways of combining moves. Hala explains the meanings of songs and stresses the emotional and spiritual aspects of using the body as a musical instrument to complement the music. Since dance is an expressive art, Hala encourages students to develop their own unique style and dance personality. Her teaching method is based on Eastern traditions, blending in her martial arts training to foster a healthy posture, technique, and form. Hala stresses valuable health tips that are crucial to using this dance as a healthy physical exercise without any long-term strain on the body.

Times:	Mondays 7pm - 8pm
Fees:	$15/class, drop-in $12/class, multiple classes
Register:	Middle Eastern Bellydance - All Levels Payments taken in class

Intermediate/Advanced Technique: Combinations and Drills
Hala's authentic Egyptian Dance for Intermediate and Advanced dancers explores different Egyptian, Arabic and Middle Eastern regional dance styles including cane, melaya, haggala, Khaliji, Dabke, Persian, and more. We cover a wide variety of topics including:

The subtleties of the Egyptian Oriental Dance form.
How to choreograph your dances.
How to respond to different musical instruments.
Dos & Don'ts in the Egyptian dance style.
Entrances & finales.
Posture, rhythm & attitude, attitude, attitude.
Hala's combinations & techniques.
Drum solos
Props: veils, melayas, sagat (zills), canes, baskets,...etc.
Arabic Rhythms & musicality for dancers.
and more.

Current session topics are on HalaDance.com.
Open to Intermediate and Advanced dancers only.

Times:

Mondays 8pm - 9pm

Fees:

$18/class, drop-in
$15/class, multiple classes

if taken with 9pm class:
both classes: $30/week, drop-in
both classes: $25/week, multiple classes

Middle Eastern Bellydance - Int/Adv
Payments taken in class

Choreography & Performance:
For Intermediate/Advanced students who are interested in performing.

In this class, we learn a full Egyptian dance routine and perform it. We learn and practice the art of performing and experiment in casual friendly venues to hone our craft. This class is perfect for students who want to experiment with performing without the demands of being in a professional dance company.

Times:

Mondays 9pm - 10pm

Fees:

$18/class, drop-in
$15/class, multiple classes

if taken with 8pm class:
both classes: $30/week, drop-in
both classes: $25/week, multiple classes

Middle Eastern Bellydance - Int/Adv
Payments taken in class

Hala

Hala has been dancing to the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East since she was a child in Alexandria, Egypt. She has been praised for her authentic form, elegant style and immaculate rhythms. Captivating audiences with her passion and energy, Hala performs solo and with her troupe. Hala teaches and performs her native dance all over the world. Her dance troupe was selected from over 115 dance companies to represent Middle Eastern dance at the prestigious San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival in 2004. In 2005, she performed with master percussionist Hossam Ramzy in London, England and presented her native art at the Los Angeles County Museum of Arts in celebration of the King Tut exhibit. In 2006, she was elected the Vice President of the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of MECDA (Middle Eastern Culture and Dance Association). In addition to performing and teaching, Hala leads dance tours to Egypt, hosts dance workshops by Master Egyptian teachers and provides information, performances and assistance to schools, cultural institutions and web-magazines on the origin and survival of this beautiful art form.

For more information, please visit Hala's website: HalaDance.com

Salsa

Salsa is fun, social and keeps you in shape. There's no reason why you shouldn't enjoy these benefits yourself. Learn the basic steps to this hot, passionate Latin rhythm and others like merengue, cha-cha-cha, bachata, Argentinean cuarteto and murga, cumbia, reggaeton, axe, and enjoy!

Please note: this class is on hiatus through February. If you are interested in this class, please register through the link below and when the class is re-started, we will contact you.

Times:	TBD
Fees:	$14/class, drop-in $45/month
Register:	Salsa Payments taken in class

Valeria Soto

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina to an American-Argentinean family, Valeria Soto liked dancing, singing, and moving her body to music from an early age. At eight, she was a student and performer at Maria Amuchastegui's Tap Dance Studio. Later, she studied Contemporary Dance for six years with ballerina Vanina Bagli. Valeria also studied with Ms. Luciana Glanc, and at "Casa del Angel" (actress Patricia Palmer's acting and dance studio). Upon her recent arrival in San Jose, Valeria immediately pursued further dance studies and activities. She is presently studying Contemporary, Modern, Jazz, Dance Tech and Lyrical dancing at Studio 10 in Cupertino, and Bellydancing at Halanda Studio, where she has performed with Karavansaray Dance Company.

For more information, please contact Valeria at
valesotis AT gmail DOT com

Salsa Bootcamp

Whether this is your first Salsa class or your 50th, there will be LOTS to learn! For beginners, we’ll focus on the basics, common turns and moves, and dance patterns you’ll look great doing at the club or party. For those who are more experienced, challenge yourself with styling, smooth moves, multiple turns for him and her, and more complex patterns that will impress!

Each class will consist of a fun dance lesson and include a review of the previous week's class. Lessons will also be posted online for your review. No partner needed as we rotate in class and have lots of time to practice the moves. Classes are almost always evenly matched between leaders and followers.

New series begins with the 1st Sunday of the month for 4 weeks. Next series starts Feb. 7. Following 4-week series Sundays in March, starting March 7.

Times:	Sundays 5pm - 6pm
Fees:	$15 drop-in $45 for 4-week series
Register:	Salsa Bootcamp Payments taken in class

Raquel (Ricki) Anaya

Whether you have two left feet and have NEVER danced before or have taken many classes, I can help you learn the secrets to dancing quickly and easily. I explain the dances clearly and demonstrate at a pace anyone can handle. Let me help you get ready for the upcoming holiday season, wedding, or night out on the town. Dancing -- and in particular Salsa Dancing -- is a great way to lose weight, keep active, socialize, be close to and make lifelong friends. Other dances include; Weddings, Cumbia, Bachata, Merengue, Cha Cha, & Performances.

For more information, please call Ricki at 408-661-9673 or visit Ricki's website: www.SalsaDanceNow.com

Zumba

A fusion of hypnotic rhythms and tantalizing moves inspired by Latin dances to create a dynamic workout that is fun and easy to do! Learn steps and choreographies in a relaxed party atmosphere while achieving your fitness goals. Rhythms include salsa, merengue, cumbia, regueton, bachata, samba, soca, punta, flamenco, and bellydancing.

Times:	Tuesdays 8pm - 9pm
Fees:	$10/class, drop-in $80 for 10 classes
Register:	Zumba with Alyssa Payments taken in class

Alyssa Lichtenstein

A certified Zumba instructor in Levels One and Two, Alyssa enjoys the diversity and high energy of Zumba. With a background in a variety of dances including salsa and Caribbean, she also dances and performs with local samba school Samba Mundial. When she is not dancing, she is an artist, and a fashion, textile, and costume designer.

For more information, please email:
alyssa.lichtenstein AT gmail DOT com

Hala Dance Troupe Rehearsal

Class and rehearsal for the Hala Dance Professional Troupe. Under her direction, the Hala Dance Troupe studies and performs dances from Egypt, the Arab world and the Middle East. They perform at cultural, international and Arabic festivals all over the Bay Area and were selected from over 115 dance companies to represent Middle Eastern dance at the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival in 2004. The Hala Dance Troupe welcomes all serious dancers interested in performing and authentically representing Middle Eastern dances and cultures. No one will be put on stage until they are 100% ready mentally and physically. No previous performance experience required. For details please contact Hala though her Web site (link below).

Rehearsal Times:	Wednesdays 6pm - 8pm
Rehearsal Fees:	Contact Hala for details

Hala

For more information, please visit Hala's website: HalaDance.com

Bellydance Co-op

Rakset Wadi al Shams is a bellydance cooperative, where we take turns leading the group in new choreography, drills and combinations, or practice with props. Walk-ins are welcome, but some very minor bellydance experience is recommended. We periodically perform original choreography created by the group. Topics rotate quickly, and you never know what you may learn! We all have something to teach each other. For more information, contact wendy AT coastside DOT net.

Next session starts Wednesday, Jan. 20, with some useful combinations lead by Na’ima Salah.

Times:	Wednesdays 8:30pm - 9:30pm
Fees:	$6/class, drop-in
Register:	Bellydance Co-op Payments taken in class

Rakset Wadi al Shams

For information about Rakset Wadi al Shams, please email Saida at wendy AT coastside DOT net.

Zumba

Zumba is a popular fitness program that combines dance styles such as cumbia, merengue, salsa, reggaeton, bellydance, tango, samba, flamenco and hip-hop. It combines high-energy and motivating music with unique moves and combinations that allow the Zumba participants to dance away their worries and have lots of fun This Latin-based group exercise class is fun and easy to do. No dance experience required!

Please note: this class is on hiatus through February. If you are interested in this class, please register through the link below and when the class is re-started, we will contact you.

Times:	TBD
Fees:	$12/class, drop-in $45/month $100 for 10-class punchcard
Register:	Zumba with Valeria Payments taken in class

Valeria Soto

For more information, please contact Valeria at:
valesotis AT gmail DOT com

Yoga and Core

This is an excellent class for new and experienced yogis, and people of all levels of fitness. Participants will practice Pranayama (breathing techniques), Asanas (Yoga poses), and Meditation in addition to Core exercises. The combination of the two exercise systems will greatly improve strength of all major muscle groups including the abdominals, upper and lower back, arms and hands, shoulders, glutes, hips, legs and feet. Increase flexibility, balance and mental focus. Improve posture and condition your body properly to help avoid injuries. Poses can be modified so that each student works at their own level and improves at their own pace. This is a beautiful no-impact practice that will prepare the body for any form of dance, especially belly dance. All dancers and non-dancers are welcome. Bring a yoga mat if you have one; some will be provided.

Times:

Thursdays 6pm - 7pm

Fees:

PRICES effective January 2010
First class FREE with purchase of class card (new students only)
$15 drop-in
$55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months
$95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months
Class card may be used at any of Ashley's classes in the Bay Area (not applicable to workshops)

Yoga and Core
Payments taken in class

Please note: Halanda Pass is not accepted in this class.

Ashley Lopez

For more information, please visit Ashley's website: AshleyLopezBellydance.com

Tribal Fusion

Killer Tribal Drillz:
Experience the basic technique necessary to dive into the world of Tribal belly dance. Drill 'til your muscles BURN! Or, take it at your own pace 'til you feel comfortable with the moves. Students of all levels will benefit from exercises that improve strength, coordination and flexibility. Basic belly dance isolations of the hips, chest, shoulders, abdominals, and arms will be introduced and broken down in a systematic fashion so you can understand which muscles to use for each movement. Single movements will be combined together to create challenging sequences and layers. Students will also learn the basics of traveling, turning, and American Tribal Style steps. PLEASE NOTE: while this class is open to all levels, it is not an introductory class. Beginners are welcome, but you may also benefit from a slower-paced class which is specifically geared for new students.

Times:	Thursdays 7pm - 8pm
Fees:	PRICES effective January 2010 $15 drop-in $55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months $95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months First class FREE with purchase of class card (new students only). Class card may be used at any of Ashley's classes in the Bay Area (not applicable to workshops)
Register:	Tribal Drillz Payments taken in class

Tribal Fusion Choregraphy:
Take it to the next level! It is best if you have some dance experience because we will be be exploring more complicated steps & combos. You will also practice turns, combos, and snakey moves that incorporate the whole body. Tribal belly dance steps will be integrated with other dance forms such as Hip-Hop, Salsa, Flamenco, Modern, Hula, and more! At the end of class you will spend some time learning choreography and practicing improvisation!

Times:	Thursdays 8pm - 9pm
Fees:	PRICES effective January 2010 $15 drop-in $55 for 5-class card, good for 3 months $95 for 10-class card, good for 6 months First class FREE with purchase of class card (new students only). Class card may be used at any of Ashley's classes in the Bay Area (not applicable to workshops)
Register:	Tribal Fusion Choreography Payments taken in class

Ashley Lopez

For more information, please visit Ashley's website: AshleyLopezBellydance.com

Dances of Persia and the Silk Road

Join us on a journey to Persia and the Silk Road and learn the great wonders of these regions. This class introduces the beautiful and elegant culture, and rhythms of the Silk Road including dances from Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, as well as dances of Ancient and Modern Persia such as: Classical and Contemporary, Folk, Sufi/Mystical Dances, and Modern/Fusion Persian and Middle Eastern Dances. The class will focus on improvisation, expression, and numerous techniques for turning and strengthening. Appropriate props will be introduced as the class progresses, and students will learn a structured choreography. Classes are for Teens and Adults.

All Levels Welcome. First Class Free!

Tuition Policy: Payments can be made by check or cash. There are no carry-overs between sessions. Classes missed in one month may not be carried over to the next session.

Times:	Thursdays 9pm - 10pm
Fees:	$15/class, drop-in $13/class, 1 month pre-paid
Register:	Dances of Persia and the Silk Road Payments taken in class

Farima Berenji

Farima's love of dance has led her on an extraordinary life-long journey that has taken her throughout the Middle East and to her original birthplace, Iran. Today Farima specializes in dances from the Silk Road (Persia and Central Asia) and the Middle East, as well as Sacred/Sufi Dances, Theater, and Ballet, in all of which she has taken extensive training. She has studied with master teachers in U.S., as well as Iran, Azerbaijan, and Kurdistan. Farima continues her passion by teaching various dance styles, including Persian, Middle Eastern, Folk, Ballet, Theater, as well as teaching Mesopotamian, Persian, and Egyptian History to various dance companies, educational institutions, and community organizations. Farima is currently a principal performer and instructor of Ballet Afsaneh, a professional non-profit performing arts company that presents traditional Central Asian Silk Road region dances, directed by Sharlyn Sawyer. She has been awarded "Instructor of the Year" by Ballet Afsaneh.

For more information, please visit Farima's website: FarimaDance.com

Near Eastern Dance: Bellydance and Beyond

Technique:
Basic rhythms. Oriental Dance (Bellydance) technique. Finger Cymbal technique. Taqsim. Veil work. Drum Solo. Turkish and Egyptian Oriental dance styles. Upper Egyptian Folkloric styles. Turkish Romani dance. Khaliji dance. Sword dance. Folk dances of Turkey, the Levant, Greece, and Armenia. Dabke. Spoon dance. Classical dance influences from Armenia, Persia, Central Asia, and Ballet.

In all subjects, Amanda emphasizes understanding the rhythms and music of each style as the basis for expressive interpretation and improvisation. Her dance style is traditional, but often includes modern music and always a sense of fun.

Classes usually begin with Finger Cymbal practice to learn and drill any rhythms covered in that class. After a thorough warm up and workout, Amanda covers Oriental steps and/or teaches a choreography. Amanda also teaches the basic steps or a choreography of a Near Eastern folk dance in each class. Bring finger cymbals.

New six-week sessions begin every other month. One or two interim Special Topic classes are offered between sessions. Students may drop in any time during a session, but regular attendance is encouraged in order to progress through the session and with any choreographies.

All levels welcome. Bring finger cymbals if you have them.

Next session: Jan. 8 through Feb. 12.
Special Topic classes: Feb. 19 and Feb. 26.
Current session topics given on AmandaDancer.com.

Tuition Policy: Class payments may not be carried over to the next session, but students may make-up classes in an interim Special Topic class, if offered, orat any of Amanda's other classes during the same session.

Times:	Fridays 6:15pm - 7:30pm
Fees:	$12/class, single class $10/class for 3+ classes pre-paid $55 for full 6-week series
Register:	Near Eastern Dance: Bellydance and Beyond - Technique Payments taken in class

Choreography:
Learn a new Near Eastern dance choreography each session. Work toward troupe performances of traditional Bellydance and Near Eastern folkloric and classical dance styles. Hone your dance and performance skills by working on the details required to make a good performance. Prior or concurrent attendance of 6:15pm class is not required, nor is performing.
7:30 - 8:30pm: Learn and polish new choreographies.
8:30 - 9pm: Review current Karavansaray Dance Company repertoire (geared towards company members, but all are welcome to attend).

Prior dance experience is recommended.

Next session: Jan. 8 through Feb. 26.

Tuition Policy: Class payments may not be carried over to the next session, but students may make-up classes at any of Amanda's other classes.

Times:	Fridays 7:30pm - 9pm
Fees:	$5/class for attendees of Friday 6:15 class otherwise, $10/class
Register:	Near Eastern Dance: Bellydance and Beyond - Choreography Payments taken in class

Amanda

For more information, please visit Amanda's website: AmandaDancer.com

Flamenco

Beginner I & II:

Adults/Teens
Basic technique in arms (brazeo), handwork (filigranas), footwork (taconeo) and combination of these three elements for coordination development.

Next Session: Jan. 9 through Feb. 27.

Times:

Saturdays 12:45pm - 2pm

Fees:

Carolina now offers Flamenco Dance Class Gift Certificates. Please visit Carolina's website for information about class fees, policies, and curriculum: www.carolinalugo.com

Flamenco - Beginner I/II
Payments taken in class

Please note: Halanda Pass is not accepted in this class.

Beginner III:

Adults/Teens
Technique: Upper body movements, palmas technique and musicality turns, use of the manton, footwork patterns. Choreography: "Tangos"

Next session: Jan. 9 through Feb. 27.

Times:

Saturdays 2pm - 3:15pm

Fees:

Carolina now offers Flamenco Dance Class Gift Certificates. Please visit Carolina's website for information about class fees, policies, and curriculum: www.carolinalugo.com

Flamenco - Beginner III
Payments taken in class

Please note: Halanda Pass is not accepted in this class.

Intermediate I & II:

Adults/Teens
Technique: Upper body movements, palmas technique and musicality turns, use of the manton, footwork patterns. Choreography: "Alegrias" w/manton

Next Session: Jan. 9 through Feb. 27.

Times:

Saturdays 3:15pm - 4:30pm

Fees:

Carolina now offers Flamenco Dance Class Gift Certificates. Please visit Carolina's website for information about class fees, policies, and curriculum: www.carolinalugo.com

Flamenco - Intermediate I/II
Payments taken in class

Please note: Halanda Pass is not accepted in this class.

Carolina Lugo

Director-Dancer-Choreographer-Master Teacher, Carolina Lugo is widely regarded as one of the most gifted Flamenco-Spanish dance artists of her generation. Carolina is a master of the castanets and Spanish dance. Her music video of her castanet interpretation of "Leyenda," is shown on the nationally broadcast show, Classical Arts Showcase. Carolina has dedicated herself over the last ten years to preserving the artistic lineage of La Argentina, Antonio Triana, Luisa Antonio Triana, Lola Montes, Merche Esmeralda, Ciro and Azurin, by teaching the art form of both genres -- Flamenco - Spanish dance -- to a new generation of artists and dancers.

Carolina made her professional debut at the age of 14. She has danced and toured the U.S. and internationally with leading companies: Lola Montes Spanish Dance Company, Luisa Triana Flamenco Dance Company, Jose Greco, Rosa Montoya Bailes Flamencos; and has shared the stage with international Flamenco artists from Spain, such as Genaro Gomez, Cruz Luna, Teodoro Morca and Benito Palacios, performing in major concert halls and with leading symphonies throughout the U.S. and internationally. Carolina danced for multiple seasons as a guest artist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl, and was a featured soloist with the Los Angeles Opera in their productions of "Carmen" and "La Traviata" at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Most recently, Ms. Lugo has danced and collaborated on choreographic works with international Flamenco artists from Spain: Manuel Betanzos, Concha Vargas, Antonio Vargas, and Pepa Montes.

Carolina received her training in Flamenco, Spanish Dance, Spanish Classical (Escuela Bolero), Neo-Classical and Regional Dances in Spain from master Flamenco artists such as Ciro, Luisa Triana, Antonio Vargas, Azurin, Concha Vargas and Pepa Montes and in the USA from Lola Montes, Jose Greco, Teo Morca, Rosa Montoya and Sarah de Luis. Ms. Lugo is a master of the castanets, an integral part of Spanish dance. A music video of her castanet interpretation of "Leyenda" is shown on the nationally broadcast show "Classic Arts Showcase."

For more information, please visit Carolina's website: CarolinaLugo.com

Halanda Studio – for Dance and Fitness