August 22, 2013 | Posted in:Around Town
A large Peacock feather fan sets the mood in the dance studio.
A friend brought up how much fun she had at her bellydancing class at Orlando Bellydance- School of Middle Eastern Dance when she attended classes last year. I distinctly remember my curiosity was piqued at the time. So, when she brought up attending a class this past week, I signed up without hesitation. I was ready to don a scarf and shake my groove thang. In my head. As I worked through my first class, I was more Elaine from Seinfeld at that Christmas party– awkwardly and non-rhythmically jutting, not in time with the music…and maybe people started shaking their heads and trying to look away. Ok, it wasn’t really that bad, but it certainly felt that way!
In reality, the large dance studio was filled with first timers with the same look of initial apprehension- who all moved through the stretches and steps that were expertly taught by the exotic instructors. We were in a safe space, encouraged and guided by talented and fabulous teachers who reminded us to breathe, smile and channel our inner divas. By the end of the class, I had left my inner-Elaine behind and enjoyed a good work out in the process.
Front door details.
Classes are $12 per session, no commitment or registration needed, though it’s recommended that you start at the beginning of a class series. (The first class was spent introducing the concept of isolating specific muscles to movements you probably have never considered possible.) If you think you are going to be attending a series of classes, there are packages of classes available for a discounted price. Attire ranged from shorts, yoga pants, leggings and T-shirts with some class members wearing the ornate scarves over their clothes. Don’t have a bellydancing scarf laying around at home? Not a problem, you can purchase one in the lobby store or find them very easily online. The class is performed barefoot, so most gals wore sports sandals or flip flops to class. Bring a bottle of water with you or water is available for purchase.
Bellydancing scarves are available for purchase on site.
Orlando Bellydance- School of Middle Eastern Dance
6900 Aloma Ave
Winter Park, FL 32792
(In The ALOMA BUSINESS CENTER)
407-579-9765
Lisa Wilk
Hello, I'm Lisa Wilk! I'm a freelance food, wine and travel writer, photographer and presenter based out of Orlando, FL. While covering local restaurants and food events in the #1 tourist destination in the US, I find endless cooking inspiration when dining out. You'll often find me in the kitchen putting my own spin on those elevated chef creations to enjoy at home and when entertaining. I have a love and enthusiasm for wine, wine education and wine pairing. Find me about town teaching and demystifying wine as part of the popular @TheTastyTrio in the popular Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Perfectly Paired program series I've co-developed. Taste, Cook and Sip along with me on Twitter and Instagram at @TasteCookSip and @WineChix! Cheers!
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