All about class

Being ready for class is the best way to enjoy it!  We hope this will answer your questions before the start of class.  If you would like to know about anything not mentioned here, please email Kristine at kristine@beautifulunusual.com .

Current class offerings are listed on the Classes page.  For information on payment and other policies, please see Class Policies.

What to Wear

  • Please wear clothes you can comfortably move in.  Yoga attire (stretchy pants and a tank top or t-shirt) is most common.  There is no requirement to bare your belly, but if it helps you see your movements you are welcome to wear a crop-top or sports bra.
  • Belly dance is generally performed in bare feet, and Kristine will usually teach in bare feet.  Ballet slippers, lyrical shoes, or other light shoes that allow your foot to flex are also acceptable.  However, if you have any issues with your feet that require specific support please wear your appropriate shoes.
  • Belly dancers often wear coin belts or scarves tied around the hips.  They help to highlight your movements and are fun to wear!  Feel free to bring yours, but if you don’t use them that’s a-ok too.

What to Bring

  • A bottle of water will keep you hydrated and happy in class, especially on days when we work on those sweaty shimmies!  Most studios have water available should you need to re-fill.
  • If you plan to practice at home, it’s helpful to bring a notebook and a pen to jot down what you do in class.  Kristine will never mind if you step to the side for a few minutes to write your notes.
  • Always remember your open mind and adventurous spirit!  Dance works best when you approach it with a positive attitude. The learning process is supposed to be fun – laughter in class is always encouraged.

What to Expect

  • Class will start on time. Please arrive 10-15 minutes before the start time to change and get yourself situated.  This is also a great opportunity to meet your classmates.
  • Kristine will start each class with a warm-up to get you moving and to ensure you are ready to dance safely. If you happen to arrive after the warm-up please take a few minutes to warm yourself up before joining in with the class. Warming up is imperative for safe participation.  Kristine will review movements from the previous week and introduce new material each class.  Each lesson will end with a cool-down to calm and relax you after the workout.
  • You may receive individual feedback during class. This is always done in an encouraging way and with your best interests in mind.  If you are having trouble with a move or are confused by something, please do not hesitate to ask.  Kristine is experienced at providing alternate explanations and adjusting movements for your body.  Her goal is to help you be the best dancer you can be.
  • Class is a non-competitive, positive, and welcoming environment.  Though rarely an issue, Kristine will address negative disruptions and disrespect toward other students to ensure a good experience for everyone.

Good Class Etiquette

  • Unless absolutely necessary, please silence or turn off your cell phone.  You will be having too much fun in class to talk or text anyway!
  • If you are taking notes or need to sit out for a few minutes, please move to the side or the back of the room.  This helps your classmates to see instruction.
  • Please put all of your belongings (water, purse, extra clothing, etc.) away if a closet or shelf is available, or to the edges of the room. Likewise, if you lose beads or coins from your hip scarf or a piece of jewelry while dancing, please remove these right away. Items on the dance floor are a hazard to you and your classmates.
  • Questions and laughter are always encouraged, but please limit personal conversations during class. Please respect yourself and your classmates by giving your full attention to your lesson.

If you have questions or comments about your class experience, please feel free to discuss them with Kristine.