Belly dance originated in Egypt, but has spread across the world and become popular in many other countries, including Canada.
Belly dance classes take place all over Montreal, and they’re great not only to learn something new and fun but also to tone your body, increase your flexibility and improve your posture and balance.
Check out the 12 institutions offering belly dance classes in Montreal below if you’re looking to get your groove on!
The List of Institutions Offering Belly Dance Classes in Montreal
1. Meriem Pahlavi Dance
Music, dance, and culture come together at Meriem Pahlavi Dance. In fact, their name literally means culture through dance.
Regardless of your age or ability level, you can learn how to belly dance in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
They offer classes for both men and women of all ages. Check out their class calendar on their website for a list of upcoming workshops and events.
If you’re interested in joining a troupe, they also have performance opportunities available throughout the year.
If you’re looking for something fun to do with friends or family, check them out.
2. Miryam Bellydance Baladi – Montreal
If you’ve always wanted to learn belly dance, join Miryam Bellydance Baladi. This new workshop series is a great opportunity to make new friends, challenge yourself and have fun moving your body.
You join them for 45 minutes of class + 45 minutes of social time where you can share a snack and dance your heart out with like-minded people.
And there are no experiences necessary just bring yourself. The next session will be held on February 18th from 7:15 pm to 9:00 pm.
The price is $10 (cash only) per session or $50 for all four sessions (Feb 11th, 18th, 25th & March 4th).
All proceeds go towards renting space and paying instructors. Class sizes are limited so sign up now by emailing [email protected] See you soon!
3. Latin Groove Dance and Fitness
Latin Groove Dance and Fitness is a fantastic and fun form of exercise that’s been around for ages, but it’s just now starting to catch on in North America.
But, let’s face it: since you don’t want to walk into your first class looking like an awkward beginner, you better get some practice in beforehand with a few Latin dance classes to brush up on your moves.
If you live in Montreal, there are plenty of options for you to choose from whether you’re looking for a simple refresher or something more advanced.
And remember, learning how to belly dance doesn’t have to be intimidating; it can be tons of fun if done right.
A great way to begin, whether you’re doing it solo or as part of a group, is by taking lessons at one of these top-notch studios.
5. Dance Academy Nadine
Dance Academy Nadine is a fantastic belly dance instructor. She’s organized all of her classes into one easy-to-follow schedule on her website, which makes it even easier to find new classes.
Plus, each class is taught by an expert, who knows their stuff and will walk you through it step by step.
The cost varies depending on whether you take a drop-in or month-long course but there are options for both if you’re just starting out.
You can take a drop-in class last week and had so much fun.
You don’t have to be able to dance already; she teaches everything from A to Z. I can’t wait for my next class.
6. Ecole de Danse Orientale
Belly dance is an incredibly fun way to exercise and get fit.
Did you know that in addition to making you feel sexy, belly dancing has many additional health benefits?
It can help improve your posture and flexibility, strengthen your core muscles, increase circulation of oxygen-rich blood, boost endorphins and relieve tension.
If you’re new to belly dancing or just want to learn more about it, Ecole de Danse Orientale is a great place to start.
8. Layal Oriental
The Academy of Oriental Arts (AOA) is located at 1212 Avenue Van Horne, but not just any avenue.
This spot on Avenue Van Horne is home to one of Montreal’s oldest and most prestigious belly dance studios.
Led by international teachers, Layal Oriental offers belly dancing classes for every skill level: from introductory courses to advanced lessons with a focus on understanding Middle Eastern folkloric rhythms and movements.
They also offer special events and workshops throughout each year. If you want to get your groove on, AOA is where it’s at!
9. Dakini Yogini Baladi
It’s no surprise that belly dancing is a fun, energetic way to get in shape. This East-meets-West workout is designed for both male and female dancers, which means you can invite your partner or spouse to class with you.
This class will take you from a beginner level all the way up to advanced moves. If you want to learn how to dance like Beyoncé minus her $500K budget then Dakini Yogini Baladi is where it’s at.
10. Persian Dance Montreal
You’re probably wondering what belly dance has to do with Persian culture. Let me tell you: nothing.
The origins of belly dance are unclear, but most sources claim it originated from Egypt or Turkey and was brought to Europe by traveling Gypsies.
However, there is one part of Persian culture that influenced belly dance: music.
Today, a lot of Middle Eastern pop music incorporates tribal-sounding beats, which originated from classical Iranian music. To know more about them here’s more info Persian Dance Montreal
11. Shauna Roberts Dance Center
It’s belly dance season, which means it’s time to move and groove.
Shauna Roberts Dance Center is a top-notch belly dance instructor offering private lessons, group classes, and workshops throughout Montreal.
It is highly recommended you get your groove on with Shauna Roberts at her dance center near Hochelaga. For more information on classes offered and hours of operation, please visit her website or give her a call.
12. Studios Accento
A dancer’s dream come true, Studios Accento is committed to providing high-quality instruction and inspiring a passion for belly dancing.
The studio boasts teachers with years of experience, as well as regular trips to Egypt. If you’re looking to get your groove on, start at Accento first.
The Canadian Centre for Culture: This center offers both Arabic dance classes and those focused on Egyptian styles as well as workshops that teach everything from basic steps to intricate choreography.
You can also check out their cultural events throughout the year.
Conclusion:
If you’re thinking of learning belly dance, you can’t go wrong with classes at Concordia University’s Arabic and Near Eastern Language Department. Their instructors are highly trained professionals and their courses are completely free.
You don’t even have to be a student to take a class so if you want to try something new or just learn how to shimmy for fun, check out one of these great belly dance classes in Montreal.
