Frederick (Session 2) classes begin

.........March 14th

 

Gaithersburg classes end

.........March 9th

 

Rockville classes end

.........March 11th

 

Shiver Me Shimmies! Student Recital

.........March 20th

 

Spring classes in Gaithersburg begin

.........April 6th

 

Spring classes in Rockville begin

.........April 15th

 

Ananke performs at the Alf Laylah Wa Laylah restaurant in Chantilly

.........April 25th

 

Ananke participates in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in D.C.

.........May 1st, 2nd

 

Frederick (Spring) classes begin

.........May 5th

 

Frederick (Session 2) classes end

.........May 9th

 

Ananke and students dance at Amara’s Arts Barn show

.........June 13th

 

 

"Belly dance" is the most commonly used Western term to describe a multitude of traditional folk dances in the Middle East and Africa. Belly dance, or Raqs Sharqi (literally 'Dance of the East' in Arabic), was commonly performed by both men and women at social and religious community events. While the exact origins and age of this beautiful art form are unknown, it is believed to be at least two-thousand years old.

A professional dancer is capable of complex muscle control and isolation to produce movements generally seen in the torso, arms, and hips. The dance intricately compliments the musical score and can emphasize a variety of emotional expressions.

 

Today, Oriental Dance is a growing and engaging performance art in many places around the world. The movements are valued for not only social and recreational purposes, but also for health and fitness.