Why do we call it "Belly Dance?"

There are two schools of thought for the origin of the name "Belly Dance". The Arabic word "beledi" interprets to English as "of the country, folk, or people". Raks beledi translates to "the dance of the people". English speaking people found it most convienent to simply say "belly dance" to describe the dance introduced at the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago by Little Egypt. The dance was also called "Dance du Ventre" in French, meaning "dance of the abdomen". Many dance artists prefer the terms "Raks Sharki (dance of the Orient), Oriental Dance, or Middle Eastern Dance. Regardless, the term "belly dance" remains the most familiar name for middle eastern dance in the United States.

What will my family/friends/neighbors think if I said I want to learn to belly dance or hire a belly dancer for a party?

Most people now know that belly dance is a fun, healthy activity that is positive and uplifting to women. Fifteen years ago I was occasionally asked if my belly dance performances included nudity or if they were for all male audiences. (The answer to both has always been no). Since then there has been a rise in the popularity of belly dance and it is rapidly gaining its due recognition as a traditional collection of dance forms that is appropriate for all participants and audiences. You will barely raise an eyebrow and most women recieve hearty congratulations when they share that they have begun belly dance lessons.

I don't want to expose my belly!

There is no need to wear anything you are not comfortable in. Do not worry. Belly Dance is all about each woman celebrating the woman she is today. There are many gorgeous professional costumes that strategically cover anything a dancer chooses. Class attire should be comfortable. I recommend exercise pants for the warm up. Some dancers choose to change into a pretty skirt or to add a hip scarf after the warm up. Classes are for you to learn new dance skills, improve your health (body, mind, and spirit), and to have fun!