Classes
Weekly Class Dates
Monday Nights at Hokulea Academy in Chicago
NEW 2026 FORMAT:
3 levels - Beginner, Mixed Level, and Intermediate/Advanced
CLASS 1: MAR 30
CLASS 2: APR 6
CLASS 3: APR 13
CLASS 4: APR 27
CLASS 5: MAY 4
CLASS 6: MAY 11
CLASS 7: MAY 18
CLASS 8: JUN 1
(Class dates subject to change with advance notice)
Offerings, Rates, and Times:
1) Beginning Level: Raqs Sharqi from the Ground Up
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6:30 to 7:30 PM CST, Mondays
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$30 Drop-In Rate
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$200 advance payment for the 8-week session (a $40 savings!)
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This course will teach raqs sharqi foundational techniques from the ground up.
No experience is necessary! Drop-ins are always welcome. All classes are taught with a comprehensive approach in mind, emphasizing cultural awareness and context.
2) Mixed Level: Technique & Combos
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7:30 to 8:30 PM CST, Mondays
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$30 Drop Ins with advance notice/consultation ~ send a message!
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$200 advance payment for the 8-week session
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This course will teach raqs sharqi technique and movement combinations.
This is great for those who have taken dance with Phaedra for 3 consecutive
sessions on their journey and up! If you are coming in from another studio,
send a message, and we'll find the class that is best for you!
All classes are taught with a comprehensive approach in mind,
emphasizing cultural awareness and context.
3) Intermediate/Advanced Level: Technique & Choreo
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8:30 to 9:30 PM CST, Mondays
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$200 advance payment for the 8-week session
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This class is progressive and attendance is by instructor invitation/consultation ONLY.
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Intermediate/Advanced concepts will be explored and full choreographies
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will be taught. This is not a drop-in eligible class. All classes are taught with a
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comprehensive approach in mind, emphasizing cultural awareness and context.
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4) Private Classes: ALL Levels
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In person and via Zoom. Different options and pricing available. Inquire for rates.
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How to Register
1) Send your payment: Venmo or Paypal.
2) Sign the WAIVER.
You will then receive confirmation email with class details.
Rules and Regs
Access: All Classes will be in person. Private Lessons are also available via Zoom.
Duration: Weekly classes are 1 hr in length.s.
Location: In-person classes are held at a beautiful studio on Chicago's northwest side.
Absence Policy: There are no per-class refunds.
Students who have prepaid for class and have to miss are welcome to send in a video for feedback.
Session Duration: A full session is 8 weeks of class, not necessarily consecutive.
Any changes in schedule due to holidays, travel, etc., will be announced in advance.
Special Classes/Workshops
(click on photos to register/more info)
The Bellydancer’s Music Toolbox:
How to Discover, Select & Edit Music for any Stage or Occasion
ONLINE
Sunday, March 29th 1:00 PM PDT/ 3:00 PM CDT
Hosted by Mahin Sciacca
Click on PHOTO to register
Let’s fill your Music Toolkit.
This lecture gives you the practical tools to do all of that with confidence. You’ll learn how to feed your musical inspiration, how to choose music that fits your specific performance context, and how to edit respectfully so your music always sounds intentional, complete, and ready for the stage. You don’t need a music theory degree- just an effective set of listening skills and guidelines – skills that will be useful through every stage of your dance career.
In this talk you will:
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Discover sources to stay current with new MENAT music releases and trends
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Rediscover beyond the “must know” standards and mine for the hidden gems of classical Arabic music
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Learn expert tips on music selection for different performance contexts and audiences
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Upgrade your editing skills – how to make your music impactful and complete sounding while still respecting the music
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Get an overview of the newest, most approachable tools for music editing.
Get your spot and step up your music game!
Click on PHOTO for registration
Your $35 Registration includes Live lecture and 30 days streaming access to the recording
30-day replay rental after the live event is $45
