Learn the fundamentals of contemporary belly dance with Vanessa Matthews as you’re guided through the essentials skills that you’ll need for your belly dance journey. You’ll learn posture; isolations of the hips, torso, and ribcage; positions and pathways of the arms and feet, and everyone’s favourite – shimmies! At the end of the class, you’ll learn a short combination to use your new skills and really start dancing right away.

Each “Belly Dance Basics” class is stand-alone, and drop-in friendly. Each one is a little different with new combos, and different technique focuses. Think of them like Belly Dance Loot Bags – you never know what you’re going to get, so you might as well grab a few and get a bit of variety.

Some classes focus on Egyptian (Raqs Sharqi) stylizations, others on Contemporary or fusion stylizations.

Level of Difficulty

Experience: Start here! Absolute beginners and new dancers welcome. Adults/18+

Mobility: Adaptable to all levels of ability and mobility, all genders, and body types. Dance is for everyone.

Items Needed: Come as you are in clothing that makes you feel comfortable. No props, shoes, or costuming needed.

I enjoyed class with you so much, I love your teaching style.

Chelsea S.

I really enjoyed technique class! You really kicked my literal butt (ouch my glutes), pushed me out of my comfort zone, and challenged both my body and brain.

Kim H.

I’m enjoying your classes to the fullest. I think you move at a good pace for beginners and explain everything super well.

Sarah C.

I have enjoyed discovering muscles I didn’t know I had, and doing the isolation practices!

Crystal B.

I love the technicality and the laid back vibe of your style of teaching. We learn but there is no stress surrounding it.

Sara H.

You approach everything with humour and fun and make all your students feel so comfortable.

BD Basics (Raqs Sharqi Stylization)