Q: Can any Belly Dancer dance with the fire battons and where can I buy them? Christine

A: Dancing with fire always please any audience that you may be performing for. However, fire is dangerous no matter how good anyone may be. Precautionary measures should always be understood and undertaken to ensure safety for the dancer and any audience member. Proper training with the use of fire battons is important to understand what fire is all about and build up a confidence in dancing. I do offer workshops to show you everything you need to know about fire dancing and also do sell the fire equipment made specifically for the professional touch and safety. If you would like to know more concerning these workshops and purchasing of fire battons please contact me for further information on workshop dates and more.

Q: I saw your performance with the Isis Wings and I think it is beautiful. Please let me know where I can buy a pair of Isis Wings and when will you be teaching the proper use of these wings? Margaret

A: Please contact me for the purchase of Isis Wings in different colours and fabric. Each come with there own bag to transport them in. I do offer workshops to show the use of these wings. Please contact me for further information regarding dates.

Q: Where does one buy belly dance clothing accessories etc?   Jenny

A: Adding accessories to your Belly Dance Costume always enlighten and enhance your appearance. This is where you can go and shop for the all the fancy jewellery that you thought you would never wear on a normal day in public. If you are looking for accessories to add to your costume, I do sell them. However you can shop around at flea markets for various jewellery and accessories. Don't go buy the first and best thing you see, shop around, you do find bargains

Q: Will I lose weight doing Belly Dancing? Dorothy

A: Movement in general is a great form of exercise. Belly Dancing is a great way of having fun while getting fit and losing weight. A lot of the movements that is used such as your chest slides and your lifted figure 8 define and work the muscles under your rib cage and muscles on the sides of your stomach. I find that belly dancing works the entire body in many ways as your movement ranges from the top of the head right down to the tips of your toes. I have had many students come to me and tell me how they have lost so many inches and now they can where a beautiful top with there stomach out or fit into jeans they haven’t fit into for so many years. Combined with a healthy eating plan, belly dancing is a sure way to lose weight.

Q: How long before I become a proficient dancer?  Melonie

A: Becoming a proficient dancer really does depend on the individual. I found that experience over years helps you to achieve this goal as well as a love and passion for the dance rather than it being a chore. I also find that in my spare time, I will listen to music and simply get up and dance, in this way practicing what you know by means of improvisation and attending class where you can learn new things and ask for tips and advice from your teacher. For each individual, it also depends on how far you would like to take it as well how quick you pick up.

Q: At one age can one start? Crystal-Lee

A: Belly Dancing originated as a folk dance enjoyed by everyone from a young age ranging right through to the elderly. I found that a lot of young girls enjoy dancing from a young age and like to try new things. They are also not so inhibited as older ladies and pick up the dance and moves rather quickly. Of course it also is a question of being old enough to understand what is being done and to be able to concentrate for a period of time. The youngest child that I have is 9 years old but the youngest that I suggest anyone to start would be around 6 years old.

Q: How many moves / shimmies can you do in a minute? Anne-Marie

A: The shimmy is the most electrifying move in Belly Dancing. It incorporates movement in the legs and hips which vibrate at very fast speeds. Because of this fact it is difficult to actually count how many shimmies can be done in one move but I will very soon take a video of a shimmy performance and slow it down to count for you and will post it here as soon as possible.

Q: Can I do Belly Dancing while I am pregnant? Pam

A: Firstly congratulations. Belly Dancing (especially the strengthening abdominal exercises such as stomach pushes and stomach rolls) is very good for preparing your body for child birth. Always pay attention to what your body is saying to you, as you should never over do it (especially if you are new to belly dancing and pregnant). However this does not stop you from doing belly dancing but you should always get the go ahead from your doctor before undertaking this dance form.