Learn to belly dance with Monica

Monica's deep understanding of the history of the dance really come through in her teaching.
She doesn't just teach the 'hows' but the 'whys' and the 'whens', too. Natalia M., student



2007 Class Schedule
San Francisco Class Schedule
Class descriptions
Class fees and registration
Class announcements, changes, and updates
What to expect when you come to class
Observing Classes
Coaching and private lessons

CLASS UPDATES
No class Monday, May 26, 2008 (Memorial Day).

San Francisco Classes
Day Time Level
Thursday 7:30 -- 8:30PM Beginner I: Basics
Monday 6:00 -- 7:00PM Beginner II / Intermediate I
Monday 7:05 -- 8:10PM Intermediate II / Advanced I

All classes are held at the San Francisco Dance Center.
26--7th Street (at Market)
5th floor, Studio 4
BART: Civic Center Station
MUNI: F, J, K, L, M, N, 5, 6, 7, 9, 19, 21, 66, 71

Monica makes learning fun. She's always energetic
and makes everyone feel positive. M.L., student

Class descriptions

Beginner I: Belly dance basics
Thursdays from 7:30 to 8:30
Designed for those new to Middle Eastern and belly dance, those new to Monica's classes, and those returning after a break, this class will provide a basic understanding of Middle Eastern dance movements and music fundamental to many styles.
 No pre-requisites
This is an open enrollment class run in a five week cycle (alternating between a stronger focus on fast and slow movements and songs).
Review is built in to each week's class, so learners may begin at any time.
Five-week cycle start dates:
The current session began Thursday, May 1, 2008 , 2008. Join us anytime!
Next 5-week session: Thursday, June 5, 2008 (May Day!).
Each class includes a full body warm-up, posture, shimmy drills, conceptual and informational dance context, a dance-along and cool down stretches.
Each class will review movements and concepts presented in the previous class.
New students: Please arrive ten minutes before class starts to register.

Advanced Beginner and Intermediate I
Mondays from 6:00 to 7:00 PM
This class focuses on strengthening and refining technique and expanding learner knowledge of rhythms and common songs.
Pre-requisites: A minimum of three cycles (15 weeks) of consistent basics class or equivalent.
This is an ongoing class. The structure of this class includes a full body warm-up, posture review, and shimmy drills. Each class will focus on one or two movements or combinations with a focus on refinement for improving dancers. Most classes will include finger cymbals. Occasionally we will work with different versions of a particular song, with specific rhythms, on focused improvisational skills, or with choreography. All classes will include an improvised dance along.

Students in this class will have an opportunity to perform in student shows.

High-intermediate & Advanced I
Mondays from 7:05 to 8:10 PM
This class allows the more experienced student to begin finding her or his own style and voice through Middle Eastern Dance.
Prerequisites: Instructor approval.
The structure of this class includes a full body warm-up and extended shimmy drills. Classes will focus on strong technique, choreography and improvisation, performance skills, distinguishing between styles, and ethics in professional dancing. All classes will include an improvised dance along, and many classes will include an opportunity for students to dance for classmates.

Students in this class will have an opportunity to perform in student shows.



Monica is the bomb! She makes dancing fun even for clumsy people with no previous experience. Sirah L., student

Class Fees
Single class/drop-in: $15
5-class card: $62 ($12 per class, expires after 7 weeks)
10-class card: $110 ($11 per class, expires after 12 weeks)
All class cards are non-transferrable and non-refundable.

See below to pre-register and pay with your credit or debit card, or you may pay with cash or a check before class.
Please note we are unable to process credit cards at the studio--cash or checks only please!

Purchase a single class: $15.00

Purchase a five class card: $62.00

Purchase a ten class card: $110.00

Please email monica@monicaraqs.com for more information.





Coaching and Private Lessons
Coaching is available for dancers from intermediate through professional levels.
Monica has experience working with dancers and troupes one on one as they prepare for performances and competitions.
Coaching can be held in a home studio or professional studio in San Francisco or the east bay.
Class time is tailored to your needs, goals, and focus.

Please contact Monica for more information and a coaching package.
References available.

Coaching and private lesson fee: $50 per hour, plus studio fees (if any).

Choreography can also be created for soloists and groups.
Please contact Monica for a current rate sheet and for more details on what is offered.

Details about classes
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes that allow me to see your legs. Leggings, sweats, tights, or jazz/yoga/stretch pants and a fitted tee-shirt, tank top, or leotard are excellent choices. Bare feet recommended, although socks or dance slippers of some sort are fine. Bring a scarf to tie around your hips.

After a while, you will be asked to bring other props, including finger cymbals (I will have sets that beginnners can borrow available), veils, and items to balance. I will give you a list of places you can obtain these items, and may have some of them for sale myself. Various items can be made by you as well, if you are so inclined! Middle Eastern dance does not need to require huge expenses while you are learning!

I am really tall/short/fat/skinny/outgoing/shy...
Great! Middle Eastern Dance, while quite individual and theatrical in it's modern presentation, is rooted in *folk* steps from dances of the Middle East and North Africa. To admittedly oversimplify, this means *folks*--all folks--can do it. It is really fun, and chances are good you will find your own niche within the many movements, genres, styles and personalities that make up Middle Eastern dance in the 21st Century!

I look forward to meeting you. Questions? Give me a call at 415-289-6670, or drop a line to monica@monicaraqs.com.

Can I observe a class?
I do not allow observers in my beginning classes for two reasons.
1) Over the years several beginners have expressed discomfort when observers are in class. I agree that it can change the dynamics, and have chosen to respect their wishes.
2) I do allow for drop-in students (meaning you can take a single class without a financial or long-term commitment), and believe that the best way to find out if you like the dance form and/or my teaching style is to try it out!

Arrangements to observe part of an intermediate or advanced class can be made. Please inquire ahead of time if interested.
But again, I strongly believe that the best way to check out a class is to try it for yourself.

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