Let’s belly dance!
My classes are mixed level, beginner friendly, and low pressure. Term 1 2026 is especially targeted at brand new students, with or without dance experience. You will learn the basics at your own pace in a supportive environment, leveling up and adding your own flair as we go.
“Raqs sharqi” (pronounced “rocks sharky”) is the Arabic name of the main style I teach, which is classical and contemporary Middle Eastern dance. I also teach several specialty styles, which you will gradually learn through my different themes every year.
Please read this page and the “Questions” page for full details, and get in touch for registration when you’re ready!
Term 1 2026:
Three class options!
Fridays 7 - 8 pm, at Val Deakin Dance Centre
Sundays 3 - 4 pm, at Academy of Dance
Performing group: Sundays 4 - 5 pm
$15 per class, or subscribe to the full access pass: $25/week
Subscription includes home study video library, with technique tutorials and 7 choreographies
New locations!
Friday evenings, join us at Val Deakin Dance Centre, across from Mitre 10 at 306 St Aubyn St, in central New Plymouth.
Sunday afternoons, find us at the brand new home for the Academy of Dance, across from Warehouse Stationary at 207 Devon St E, downtown New Plymouth.
Please note that you register directly with me by email, no need to contact the schools. You can also request a callback, if you prefer the phone.
Weekly classes for all levels
I am allowing drop in casual students for Term 1 as we get settled into two new studios, with beginner-friendly classes twice a week! No experience necessary, everyone works at their own pace and level, for as long as they like.
No special outfit needed for class, just dress comfortably with bare feet or socks. Dance shoes are an option, if you prefer (no street shoes or heels are allowed in the studios, to protect the special floors). I’ll have sparkly hip scarves available to borrow, as well as any necessary props.
You can come to Fridays 7-8pm, Sundays 3-4pm, or both, according to your needs and availability each week. $15 per class, or $25/week to get the full access pass, including my online library (over 300 video tutorials!)
Sunday performance group rehearsals 4-5pm are included in the full access pass, once you gain enough experience.
How does subscription work?
Email me to get my bank details, and set up recurring payments.
The Starter Pass costs $15/week, entitling you to one class per week (either Friday or Sunday, your choice every week) and access to video tutorials from the current school term.
The Full Access Pass costs $25/week, which lets you attend both classes for beginners, or all three classes if you’re invited to performance prep class. This also unlocks every video in my library (currently over 300 tutorials, including seven choreographies for performers).
Full access is great for:
Accelerated growth, whether you’re a brand new beginner, or experienced but looking to push past your skill plateau
Uncertain availability week to week, but you want to keep growing by coming to extra classes when you can, and using my massive library of video tutorials at home
You like the idea of joining my performing group, and would like to catch up on our repertoire of choreographies
More time with your new friends in class!
Mental and physical health benefits increase when you set aside more “me time” for dance
Keep up your learning while out of town, caretaking, or injured. Even seated practice or mental review helps a lot!
Cancel anytime, no up front fee - just get in touch with me, and set up a recurring bank transfer of $15/week for Starter, or $25/week for Full Access. Compared to most other studio dance classes in town running around $18-20 per hour, it’s a bargain.
Sample tutorial video
As an example of the many topics covered in class, plus extras that we only have time for at home. As you can see, I usually keep a relaxed pace, and phase up the difficulty, so it’s easy to follow. From suggested modifications to suit different bodies, to cultural context and dance history, I aim to provide not just movement, but meaning as well.
This 20 minute video from my library covers a small part of our Egyptian Golden Era curriculum, including a Samia Gamal inspired combination, and an introduction to finger cymbals.
Music on your fingertips
Our special focus for 2026 is finger cymbals, a special percussion instrument which connects us to dancers from the Bronze Age. This is the most ancient part of bellydance!
I have loaner sets of cymbals available for students, and we will do a group purchase in Term 2 for those who want their own set.
Term 1 is the perfect time to learn the basics!
There’s a performance option on October 17th for students who wish to join the Performing Arts Collective for our annual show, or other opportunities throughout the year.
Terms 2 and 3 will be our intensive performance prep sessions, with final rehearsals and shows in Term 4. Performers must attend both Sunday classes, mid April through mid October, to qualify for our main show. I can help you register with the Performing Arts Collective once you confirm your interest.
There will be additional performing opportunities year round as you gain experience.
My teaching style
I don’t expect anyone to look just like me when they dance, classes are a journey of self-discovery. Everyone participates at their comfort level, and I often get feedback that people appreciate my low-pressure teaching style.
A mix of guided movement and free dancing builds confidence at every level, and helps students start to understand the social dance roots. This dance has always been about self expression and celebration, for all ages and genders.
Being part of performances is completely optional, and I always ask first before taking any photos or videos for my learning library. Join our body positive, diverse and supportive community!
Inclusion and community
Many come to class because it’s a great way to meet people, especially when you’re new to town. I started teaching in 2019, shortly after moving to New Plymouth from California. As different as we are, dance is our shared language.
I prioritize accessibility for Arab women so they are not excluded from their own art form (raqs sharqi = “dance of the east” in Arabic).
I will happily consider accommodating students who contact me with their special requests, such as private lessons or parties for girls and women only, just like in the source cultures.
To be clear, I welcome trans and nonbinary folks in my classes! My sessions are usually, but not exclusively, attended by female students.
I currently teach in two different ground floor level studios, no stairs! I’m happy to be in more accessible spaces now.
Whatever your needs are, let me know!
Build your own experience, by request
I offer private lessons or performances for individuals and groups, customized to your needs. Hen parties, birthdays, team building, holiday work dos, and more! I don’t do stag parties, but am open to most other events.
Private lessons can be great way to start building confidence if you’re unsure about group classes, or to deep dive into special topics if you’re already experienced in the style.
Private event options range from wedding or corporate entertainment packages, to a casual demo performance and group lesson with your besties.
What sounds good to you? Email me for rates and availability!
Faces and spaces
Just a few of my lovely students and collaborators:
MEDANZ attendees at my Vintage American Style workshop, performance of the same at the festival hafla in Palmerston North, and my Gems dressed up for the Performing Arts Collective rehearsal.
Newsletter
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© 2026
