Introduction

As a student or teacher of bellydance, do you know what style you are teaching or performing? Do you know the difference between the styles of bellydance? Are you a traditional raks sharqi dancer? An American bellydance stylist? A fusion bellydance teacher? Are you aware that the music used in traditional raks sharqi is distinct from the music used in American bellydance and why?

Can you define what makes a good teacher? Do you know what "dance standards" are and do you apply them in your class? Are you aware that raks sharqi and American bellydance must be approached in two distinct ways? Do you know why some costumes are - or are not - appropriate in different dance styles and forms? Do you know the laws governing performance rights and music use?

A membership in Prima Beladi is like attending a school of folkloric dance. You will be challenged to think of dance in a different light and be encouraged to develop your own skills to a greater degree. Students will find helpful hints and performance tips. Teachers will find concise, clear information regarding teaching technique, movement vocabulary and eye-opening articles on theory, culture and history, with plenty of printable hand-outs for the classroom. Whether you are a teacher, dancer or student, Prima Beladi offers valuable professional information, whether you have been dancing for twenty years or twenty days.

Welcome to Prima Beladi!