Get Into Bellydance! by emay of Inoor
erikamay.net . mail4inoor@gmail.com . 412 400 8263

Bellydancing is an ancient art form that is continuously evolving itself and reintegrating itself into societies all over the world. Roots of bellydance come from Fertile Crescent (Northeast Africa & the Middle-East), and began spreading through the Silk Road, which ran from the Middle-East to India and China. It originated through birthing and fertility rites, and is still taught by Doulas today! Contemporarily, bellydance performance has been embraced by American culture, and one can find American-Style bellydancers all over the world.

For resources and further reading:
-Shira.Net -An excellent website with articles and descriptions of anything to do with bellydance, from histories and styles, to costuming and how to accept tips. Has a good resource for teachers around the world.
-Tribe.Net -A discussion forum which has many active bellydancers. This is great to find any contemporary issues surrounding the dance
-YouTube.com -Find TONS of dance videos, ranging from amateurs to full orchestrated productions.

Bellydance Events
Jalsah A bellydance party that focuses on Middle-Eastern music. Usually accompanied by workshops, these parties are for everyone: dancers, musicians and appreciators! visit www.Jalsah.org for upcoming events. Pittsburgh-born events!
Haflas Haflas are performance parties, and usually feature several dance troupes doing a choreography or directed improvisation. The dance floor will open up to musicians and dancers either throughout the evening or at the end.
Workshops Check your local areas for touring or local bellydancers who are teaching specialized workshops.

Local Teachers - Pittsburgh
Emay www.erikamay.net I teach in Regent Square, Downtown (YMCA), East Liberty (Dance Alloy - starts in September) and Lawrenceville (Your Inner Vagabond)
Zafira www.ZafiraDance.com Tamara, Maria and Olivia were my primary teachers, and they are excellent! Teach in South Side, Squirrel Hill and Bellvue.
Khafif www.khafif.com Music and dance company, teaches in Squirrel Hill
Amythest www.healingartsbyamythest.com Downtown, Castle Shannon
Joanna no website Carnegie

Finding Musicians and Canned Music