Belly Dance Workshops with Michelle

Michelle teaching a workshops on the beach at Club Med in Beldibi, Turkey.

Interested in sponsoring a workshop?

Email Michelle at info@arabicdance.net or call 510-384-2773.

Download Michelle's workshop contract here

Workshop Topics Include:

CABARET BELLYDANCE (2, 3, or 4 hours)
Learn an American-style cabaret belly dance routine. This choreography emphasizes unexpected direction changes and sharp isolations. We will discuss the dynamics of a successful cabaret routine while learning a fast and sassy choreography. Depending on the length of the workshop, extra technique and combinations may be taught.

SHIMMIES AND ISOLATIONS/ DRUM SOLO CHOREOGRAPHY (2, 3, or 4 hours)
In this workshop we will work on shimmies, belly rolls, hip locks, and chest isolations. We will drill the moves individually, then we will put them together as we work on layering. Depending on the length of the workshop, we may then put these techniques together into a drum solo choreography.

VEIL POI (2 hours)
This is a great prop that is just starting to gain popularity. We will learn basic poi technique then cover several tricks and combinations that can be done when silk veils are attached. See video clips with one veil poi and with two.

VEIL TECHNIQUE/ CHOREOGRAPHY (2 or 3 hours)
We will learn combinations that are full of interesting veil tricks. From basic veil technique to difficult release and grab tricks, this workshop will discuss everything you need to know about doing veil. Time permitting, we will put learn a choreography.

STAGE DANCING (2 hours)
This workshop is all about stage presence and performance technique. We will work on entering and exiting the stage, traveling through space, and connecting with the audience. We will learn the dynamics of a stage show and work on adding polish and professionalism to our dance. We will also address issues of stage fright and accident recovery.

FINGER CYMBAL TECHNIQUE (2 hours)
This workshop is designed to get you comfortable dancing with finger cymbals. You will learn dozens of finger cymbal patterns, then we will put them together with belly dance combinations. Emphasis on smoothly changing between dance moves and cymbal patterns.

MASTER CLASS FOR TEACHERS (2 hours)
This unique workshop is designed for belly dance instructors. Michelle uses her Masters Degree in Counseling to discuss different learning methods and the psychology behind class dynamics. We will also cover methods for breaking down and drilling movements, muscle memory and breaking bad habits, motiviating and inspiring students, movement safety, and how to prepare students for performing. Michelle will also teach several unusual drills that you can take back to your students.

DRILLS (90 minutes)
This class is for intermediate and advanced dancers who are interested in doing some hard work. We will do shimmy drills, traveling drills, layering drills, isolation drills, and strengthening drills that draw on Michelle's experience as a personal trainer. Even if you own the Drills! Drills! Drills! DVD, this workshop will contain new material.

Michelle's Credentials:

In addition to years of professional, international belly dance experience, Michelle holds many fitness instructor credentials:

~ Group Exercise Instructor Certification (NDEITA)
~ Personal Trainer Certification (NESTA)
~ Lifestyle and Weight Management Counselor (NESTA)
~ First Aid and CPR certified

Email Michelle

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