Can I join if I’ve never danced before?

Absolutely! Both our belly dance technique and beginner choreography classes welcome complete beginners. Movements are broken down into manageable steps, with guidance to help you understand how to create them. You don’t need to arrive with coordination or confidence, those are skills we develop through practice. 💜

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What style of belly dance do you teach?

Our teaching combines Egyptian and fusion belly dance. We explore posture, isolations, shimmies, undulations, arm movements, rhythms and musicality, alongside opportunities to develop your own expression.

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What will I learn in Belly Dance Technique?

You’ll explore posture and alignment, hip and chest isolations, undulations, shimmies, arms, coordination, layering, rhythms and musicality. Through drills and short combinations, you’ll practise how movements work individually and how to connect them with greater control.

 

What will I learn in Belly Dance Choreography?

You’ll learn a routine step by step, practising technique within the choreography. We develop transitions, timing, musical interpretation, expression and stage presence, helping you bring the movements to life.

 

Should I take technique and choreography together?

They’re designed to complement each other. Taking both gives you dedicated time to refine your foundations and apply them within a routine. You can also attend either independently, depending on your interests and availability.

 

Are the classes suitable for returning or more experienced dancers?

Yes. Returning dancers can revisit foundations, refine details and explore additional layers and variations. Nat offers individual feedback and adjusts the challenge to your experience, so you can keep developing alongside beginners.

 

How do you support different experience levels in the same class?

Nat checks in with students individually, offering corrections and explanations. Beginners concentrate on foundational movements, while more experienced dancers receive additional layers and variations. You’re encouraged to build understanding before adding complexity and take breaks when needed.

 

What happens in a technique class?

Each one-hour session includes a warm-up, a recap of previous learning, new technique, focused drills, a short combination and a cool-down. We revisit skills regularly, giving you time to practise before building on them.

 

How will I progress across a technique course?

You’ll work towards greater body awareness, coordination, movement control and musical understanding through regular practice. Each term introduces a different focus alongside foundational work. In the final class, we bring the term’s learning together in a combination practised in class.

 

Who teaches the belly dance classes?

Our belly dance classes are taught by BAW Dance founder Nat, also known on stage as Fyra Velvette. She has five years of teaching experience, a ballet background and belly dance training since 2020.

Her qualifications include Level 2 Group Exercise Instructor, Level 3 Personal Trainer, Beginner Belly Dance Level 1 CPD and Intermediate Belly Dance Level 2 CPD.

 

Where are the belly dance classes in London?

Technique classes take place at BGM Studios, 73 St John St, London EC1M 4NJ, in Farringdon.

Choreography classes take place at Islington Studios, Floor 3, Unit 3.4, 161 Marlborough Road, London N19 4NF.

Always check the address on your chosen booking page and confirmation.

 

What’s the difference between a drop-in and a course?

For Belly Dance Technique, they are two ways to book the same weekly session. A drop-in gives you flexibility to book individual classes. A course provides regular practice across a set number of weeks, helping you build on previous learning.

 

Can I try a class before booking a course?

Yes. New BAW students can book an eligible first class for £14. Select the First Class Offer when booking.

If you decide to join the eligible course afterwards, we’ll deduct your first-class payment from the course price so you won’t pay twice for that session. Contact us for the code and applicable terms.

 

Can I join the technique course after it has started?

Yes! You can join through a flexible Standard or Gold Bundle Membership. Message us before booking so we can discuss the remaining sessions and arrange a suitable option.

 

What should I wear and bring?

Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in and bring water. Bare feet, socks or soft dance shoes are suitable for belly dance. A hip scarf is optional, you don’t need a costume to get started. You can find all of our recommendations in our shop.

 

Do I need to be fit or flexible already?

You don’t need to arrive with a particular fitness or flexibility level. Start with movements suited to your current ability and build gradually. Let your instructor know about any injuries, access needs or concerns before class so you can discuss suitable adaptations.

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Will I have to perform?

Performing is completely optional. The Belly Dance Technique course does not include a showcase. The choreography course offers an optional end-of-term showcase, so you can learn the routine for your own enjoyment or choose to take it onto the stage. ✨

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Can I practise between classes?

Students who join our classes / courses relevant WhatsApp group can access supporting practice videos shared for many sessions. The group also connects you with our supportive women’s community.

 

How much do classes and courses cost?

Standard drop-ins are £18, with a £14 first-class offer for new BAW students. Courses and membership bundles are also available. Check the relevant booking page for current course prices, dates and plan details.

 

Can I pay for a course in instalments?

Course payments can be split through Clearpay, Klarna or PayPal, subject to the provider’s eligibility and terms. Available options are shown at checkout.

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How do I choose the right class?

Start with technique if you’d like more time to understand individual movements. Choose choreography if you enjoy learning a routine and exploring performance. Combine both for complementary practice, or message us and we’ll help you find your starting point. 💜