Frequently Asked Questions
What do I wear?
Whatever. You. Want. You can bring your own scarf to tie around your hips, and we also have some available to borrow. Wear whatever makes you feel beautiful and comfortable. The floor is a low pile Berber carpet. Barefoot or any shoe safe for dancing is appropriate. Flowy skirts and pants are great. Fitted pants and tops are great, too. Skirts and dresses typically have longer lengths, most frequently floor-length. (At least half my dance wardrobe came from thebellydanceshop.com.) But if you want to rock your sweatpants and/or sequins, this is the place we have FUN expressing ourselves. Wear what inspires you to dance!
What do I need to bring?
Water. Something to tie around your hips such as a scarf (we have some hip scarves available to borrow). An open mind, open heart, and an intention to have fun! Zills (finger cymbals) are never required but bring them if you have them. We may occasionally use veils (we have some veils to borrow). Above all, bring a loving, positive attitude. All ages, body types, and levels of ability/experience are welcome.
What is the address for my GPS?
We are located in the South Union Shopping Center inside Allison American Karate Academy studio, 844 Union Street S., Concord, NC, 28025. We are right next to Redd's restaurant, which has really good food and live music on Saturdays. (It's a super fun GIRLS NIGHT OUT to go to Redd's after class!)
How much do the class/haflas cost?
The class/haflas are free. No cost for anything.
What is the class/hafla schedule?
Should I have previous dance experience?
Not one second of previous dance experience is required, nor is a belief in one’s own ability. You can do this. This dance is for everyone. It is the dance of the people.
How old do you have to be to come to the class/hafla?
As long as you are not a distraction, these classes/haflas are appropriate for all ages.
Is belly dance a great way to get in shape?
Belly dance is for loving the shape you are right now. We believe belly dance should be fun and easy for everyone. Rather than changing our shape, our goal is ease and fun!
What does hafla mean?
It’s the Arabic word for party. Our classes are hybrids! Half class/half party!
Why is it called belly dance?
Westerners gave it that name. The term ghawazi (or ghawazee) refers to the traditional Egyptian folkloric dance style. The Arabic term raqs sharqi translates to “oriental dancing” and is the modern classical Egyptian style that comes from folk dances but has evolved over time. When Americans got ahold of this dance form, we did what we do best: fuse it. There are many styles of belly dance. We sample them all.
What does Sacred Shimmy mean?
We believe dance, and any form of creative self-expression, is sacred. Dance is the joy of our hearts and meant to be shared. Come dance with us and set your inner belly dancer free! Drop-ins welcome!