Class Schedule Information
Click on the class name below to register online or call Danna at 847.618.3513:
--Cancelled for the Current Session--
Study the art of belly dance with instructor, Cat Velasquez, on Monday nights from 7:30-8:30 PM. This class is appropriate for all levels--from beginners to intermediate dancers. Classes typically include stretching, warm-up, technique, drills and choreographies. Props including veils, canes, skirts and finger cymbals (zills) may be introduced. All students will need a 3-yard veil and coin hip scarf--both are available for purchase in class.
10-week session, class begins at 7:30 PM, cost: $72M/$108NM
Belly dancers rely on their strong torso, hips and legs to create lovely, controlled movements to the beat of a dumbek or drum. Learn exercises, stretching techniques, drills and short combos that will help improve your core strength and challenge you to expand your range of flexibility. Unlike most athletes who are taught to keep their weight centered between both legs, belly dancers frequently shift their weight from leg to leg while performing combos (short, choreographed movements) which helps improve their balance and grace. This class is appropriate for all levels--from people who have never danced before to experienced belly dancers who wish to improve their skills. All students will need a 3-yard veil and coin hip scarf--both are available for purchase in class.
10-week session, class begins at 7:30 PM, cost: $80M/$120NM
Continue your belly dance training with instructor, Kara Kowert, on Thursday nights from 7:15-8:15 PM. This class is appropriate for intermediate-level belly dancers--please call or email Kara to determine if this class if right for you. Classes typically include stretching, warm-up, technique, drills and choreographies. Props including veils, canes, skirts, candles, scarves, fans and finger cymbals (zills) may be introduced. All students will need a 3-yard veil and coin hip scarf--both are available for purchase in class.
10-week session, class begins at 7:15 PM, cost: $80M/$120NM
Focus on honing your performance skills in this add-on to the Belly Dancing for Women Level II class. This 30-minute class will give intermediate/advanced students an opportunity to receive detailed feedback and individualized instruction. Learn how to create your own choreography, improve your improvisational skills, develop a unique stage presence, learn and perform challenging choreography with The Desert Opal Dance Company. Student responsibilities will include frequent homework, consistent attendance, purchase of troupe costumes and participation in professional and student performances. Pre-requisites include an audition with instructor, Kara, and concurrent enrollment in the Belly Dancing for Women Level II class.
- Schedule your private audition with Kara at least one week prior to the new session.
- Perform a 3-5 minute original solo--improvised or choreographed--to modern or traditional Middle Eastern music. Identify the rhythm(s) used in your song.
- Demonstrate your ability to quickly learn intermediate/advanced combinations and then incorporate them into a short improvised solo.
10-week session, class begins at 8:30 PM, cost: $50M/$100NM
All weekly classes are offered at The Wellness Center on the campus of Northwest Community Hospital.
The Wellness Center
900 W. Central Rd.
Arlington Ht., IL 60005
Please note that you must be 17 or older to participate in classes at The Wellness Center.