In this class, you’ll explore earthy Egyptian, Turkish, and American style movements, dynamic combinations, and expressive choreography blending tradition and innovation. Experience the power of fiery hip-locks and shimmies, and the fluid beauty of serpentine undulations. Drawing from decades of study with master teachers and over thirty years of performance experience, Johara offers expert guidance in a supportive, inspiring environment—honoring the depth of this ancient art while inviting each student to discover their own unique style within it.
Instructions: Wear comfortable dance or workout clothing that allows you to move freely. Classes are danced barefoot or in dance shoes. Students will be encouraged to acquire a veil and finger cymbals (zsagaat/ills).
Cost: 7 weeks: $115 | Single Class: $20 (cash) or $23 (Venmo)
*NEW* The Dance Complex requires ALL visitors to have a Membership, Guest Pass, or $5 Day Pass to access the building.
If you are new and want to try out the class, contact Johara for a free 1-time pass
Fall Session 1: 7 Weeks – September 10 – October 22
Fall Session 2: 7 Weeks – October 29 – December 17 (no class November 26)
Payment: Pay in class. Cash preferred, or Venmo
Drop-ins always welcome!
What is the legacy of the genre/form/style you are teaching?
The more authentic name for this dance form is raqs sharqi (“dance of the East”), and its roots lie in the Middle and Near East, primarily in Egypt and Turkey. This dance form was introduced to the United States and Europe at the turn of the 20th century, but it was not widely performed or taught until the 1950s and 1960s, when the belly dance craze swept across the U.S. The American cabaret style of belly dance is rooted in the legacy passed down by notable American teachers and performers, who blended Middle Eastern influences with their own innovations and movement styles drawn from diverse dance backgrounds.
What background, training, and or relationship do you have with this style/technique/class subject?
Johara was drawn to Middle Eastern belly dance for its graceful movements and improvisational style, where dancers express beautiful Middle Eastern music with its haunting melodies and vibrate rhythms through their own personalities. She has trained with renowned Egyptian, Turkish, and American dancers in raqs, sharqi, cabaret, fusion, and folk styles. In addition, her training includes West African, Afro-Latin, yoga, and other movement disciplines. She has dedicated much of her life to this art form and wants to pass on her knowledge and experience. She is passionate about this dance form because she loves the music, the movements, and the magic it evokes.
Finish this statement: I am passionate about teaching this style because…
…the music, the movements, and the magic they evoke inspire me deeply, and I am excited to share the dance with you.
How can students learn more about this offering?
Website: Joharaboston.com
Facebook: Johara Boston and Snake Dance Theater Company
Instagram: @joharaboston and @snakedancetheater
Youtube: @joharaboston and @snakedancetheater
Contact Information
Contact:
Johara Boston: 617 922 3676 | johara@joharaboston.com
