About
I offer a full curriculum of Egyptian style belly dance for beginners through professional. My education includes trips to Egypt twice a year to study and train with the best choregraphers, performing artists, producers and teachers. I've taught and performed in five continents and am a featured educator and performer in major conferences around the world including Randa Kamel's "Raqs of Course" and Raqia Hassan's "Ahlan Wa Salam" in Cairo, Egypt.
I'm a musical producer and just released my first CD, "Mirage," which was created with world-renown Yassir Jamal.
I have produced major touring shows with stops in Off Broadway NCY, Chicago, Detriot and Kansas City, and am the author of six books. (See www.confessionsofabellydancer.com and www.lulu.com/raksanna for more information.)
The greatest reward of teaching belly dance is seeing my students blossom in their self confidence and self love. I seek to inspire each person to reach for the stars and learn to appreciate and express the inner beauty through dance.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
My vision for my program is ... "Our trophies are not made of metal or glass. Our trophies are living, breathing people who dance out their dreams and live out their goals."
I bring that vision to life by welcoming each student to class, getting to know what she's looking for from belly dance and what her interests are, and understanding the best way to provide feedback.
I watch and learn her body naturally moves so I can provide guidance and instruction to help her develop, grow and reach her goals - whether they are fun and fitness, personal growth, aimed at professional advancement or a combination.
I get to know my students as individual people first and then create a special enviroment of open, honest and caring authenticity so each person can reach her best potential.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been an Oriental dancer specializing in Egyptian style Raks Sharqi and folklore dance for more than two decades.
I travel to Egypt twice a year, and have since 2003, to train and study with the best choreographers, dancers and producers of Oriental dance, plus immerse myself in the culture and history.
I've been a fitness professional since 1988 with certifications that include personal training, Stott Pilates, Yoga, group fitness, boxing and more. I bring this knowledge into my classes so they are safe, effective and fun.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Six week classes:
Beginners (60 minutes in length) - $98
Intermediate (90 minutes in length) - $125
Advanced / Professional (by invitaiton only; monthly tuition applies) - Ask for details
Private lessons:
Single sessions (1 hour; expires in 15 days) - $75
3 pack (3 hours; expires in 30 days) - 10% discount - $187.50 ($67.50 per hour)
6 pack (6 hours; expires in 60 days) - 15% discount - $382.50 ($63.75 per hour)
How did you get started teaching?
As part of my personal training and group fitness instructor certification, I am required to complete continuing education trainings each year. I went to a fitness conference in NYC and they offered "The Goddess Workout." I thought, "I'm a goddess! I better go!" I took the workshop with Dolphina from San Diego and my life was instantly changed. Belly dance consumed me! :)
What types of students have you worked with?
All ages, sizes, shapes, walks of life. My youngest student was 6 years old and my oldest student is 74 with two hip replacements and a pace maker. I have students with all abilties, hopes and dreams.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Dancing to "Enta Omri" in Cairo, Egypt with Randa Kamel's amazing orchestra
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Talk to the teacher and understand his/her credentials and style. Find out the best way to raise concerns or provide feeback.
Most importantly, make sure there's a good fit between your values and the teachers, and your goals and what the teacher can provide to help you achieve them.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Why do you want to take belly dance? Is it for fun and fitness, to meet new friends, to learn something new, or to become a belly dancer? or a combination of both?
How full is your life? Do you have time to commit to one hour per week to classes? Or do you prefer to do a 'drop in' and come as your schedule permits? Both approaches are fine; just know what you can and want to do so you can set clear expectations of yourself and with your teacher.
Ask if there are established protocols for ettiquette so you know what to expect when you walk into class.
Most of all - have fun!