Belly Dance in Bowie, Maryland with Patrice
				Culturally spirited dancing for people of all shapes, sizes, and ages! Who can take the classes? Is my belly too big? Belly dancing is suitable for adults of any shape, size, and age. It is a culturally spirited dance that celebrates the curvaceous form of all shapes and sizes of people. Dancers often find acceptance of their own body images as they learn to move in ways that are flattering. Belly dancing is a very self-affirming art form. How old do I have to be to take the classes? Dancers should be at least 8 years old. There is no upper age limit. The average age of dancers in class is between 30 – 55 years old. Many people begin belly dancing when they are in their 40s. Do I need dance experience for the beginner level classes? No prior dance experience is required. Beginner level classes are a great way to get started even if you’ve never taken a dance class. How are the classes structured? The classes include: warm-up, technique, choreography, and cool-down. Emphasis is placed on posture, hip and arm movements, and upper and lower body isolations, which are the movements that give belly dancing its unique look. What to wear? Dancers should wear comfortable, close-fitting clothing that permits viewing of body movements. It is also recommended that dancers wear something around the hips to make hip movements visible. A scarf, belt, shawl, short beach sarong, coin skirt, or fringed skirt works well for this purpose. Dancers may take the class in bare feet, cotton socks, or ballet slippers. Tennis shoes are not recommended. What is a coin skirt or hip scarf? It is best to actually see them to understand what they are and to learn how to choose a good quality coin skirt or hip scarf. You may call Patrice for information, come to class to see what she is wearing, or visit a store that sells them. A good store to visit for belly dance outfits is: Dancer in Clinton, Maryland (301) 856-2144. Where are classes held and how do I register? Visit the home page of this website for information about classes. For more information call Patrice at (301) 390-0590 or send email to the address on the contact page of this website. Happy shimmies and dancing!