Class Overview
Raksanna’s award-winning, internationally acclaimed program features a full curriculum designed for beginners through advanced/professional levels. The clear line of progression is structured to build a solid foundation and essential skills, whether your goal is a fun night out or performing before an audience.
Class Structure – Belly dance classes are taught in 7-week sessions and meet once a week for 55-minutes. Each class starts with a warm up, then transitions into technique and “across the floor,” choreography and dance patterns and finishes with a cool down. Tuition is based on the number of classes per week in which a student enrolls.
Class Curriculum – Classes are divided into different levels to meet individual student needs and provide a path for progression. Private lessons are also available by appointment.
Beginner to Advanced Beginner (Level 1) – Learn the 12 fundamental belly dance moves and be introduced to an essential belly dance skill! In Level 1, dancers learn how to dance with a beautiful silk veil and are introduced to exciting finger cymbals. Each session rotates between veil and cymbals. Both veil and cymbals must be taken before advancing to Level 2. Prerequisite: None
Advanced Beginner to Intermediate (Level 2) – Build on your foundation with inTechnique class focuses on perfecting basic movements, as well as learning intermediate dance routines. Students are expected to bring both veil and cymbals each week because class material constantly changes. Prerequisite: All themes from Level 1 and instructor approval.
Intermediate (Level 3) – Aimed at students who want to increase their skills, Level 3 builds on Level 1 and 2 with intermediate choreography and technique. This level is divided into two sections: Level 3 Technique and Level 3 Choreography.
Level 3 Technique (T) focuses on adding grace and polish to overall dance presentation, while introducing intermediate to advanced belly dance patterns. Level 3 Choreography (C) is focused on intermediate choreography. Dances may include veils or cymbals or not require any accessory.
In both Level 3 T and Level 3 C, students are expected to practice outside of class time. Prerequisite: All themes from Level 1 and Level 2, successful completion of entrance exam and instructor approval. Please note: students can take Level 3 T and 3 C simultaneously; however, if the student wishes to take only Level 3 C, s/he must successfully pass a profiency technique exam.
Advanced/Professional (Level 4) – For the serious student with an interest in performance, classes focus on advanced choreography and may include topics such as Creating a Solo Performance and Improvisation Techniques.
Similar to Level 3, Level 4 is also divided into two sections: Level 4 T and Level 4 C. As with all dance studios, students in Level 4 are required to take both Level 4 T and Level 4 C at the same time.
Level 4 T incorporates the world famous Reda Technique, as well as modern Oriental training. Level 4 C focuses exclusively on advanced choreography and also blends an element of student choreography projects as well.
Students are expected to practice outside of class time. Prerequisite: Entry to Level 4 for the first time is by audition and must be accompanied by registration in both Level 4 T and 4 C.
Special Workshops – Life-long learning is a key value of Raksanna. To promote continued learning in the art of Belly Dance, Raksanna is the producer and sponser of special workshops with esteemed artists from around the country. Workshops are typically held on the weekends. Workshop fees are separate from class tuition.