Summer course
Baladi
Calling all budding baladi ladies! Join us over 4 weeks as we delve into this earthy, feminine style of dance straight from Egypt.
Whether you're new to this style or you've studied it before, you're sure to get a lot out of the course.
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Juicy, voluminous yet intricate hip work is the hallmark of this dance style which is (mostly) improvised. In this course you'll learn the technique and musicality to unlock your inner baladi woman. You'll also learn how to (or refine your) dance to a traditional baladi progression.
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You'll also learn baladi tableaux style, which is a show style of baladi created by famous dancers on the stages of Cairo.
Practical info
Dates: 23rd July, 30th July, 6th August, 13th August
Time: 7.15pm-8.30pm
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Location: The bridge (Nearest tube: London Bridge/Borough/Southwark)
Ask for the studio on arrival. There are showers and changing facilities, and the studio is mirrored, bright and air conditioned .
Address: 73 – 81 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 0NQ
Price: £58 (early bird price until July 12th or 5 spots sold)
£65 (regular price)
In this course we will cover:
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Baladi technique: including jewel steps, hagalla, 'fifi' step, twist steps, intricate hipwork and circle and eight variations.
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Learning how to dance (and improvise) to baladi progressions ("ashra baladi"), including baladi taqsims (instrumental solos).
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Baladi gestures, expressions and stage personalities, to give your dance authentic Egyptian flavour. Awaken your inner ma'alima (boss woman) or sweet and playful bint el balad (daughter of the homeland)!
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Cultural context and understanding of typical instruments, rhythms and musical structure.
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Combos in vibrant baladi tableaux style.
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The classes will include drills, improvisation exercises and combinations to embed and perfect the technique and musicality learnt in the course.
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What's included:​
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4 x 75 minute small group classes in Central London.
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Weekly homework, with feedback on WhatsApp or Telegram (optional, but encouraged!).
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WhatsApp group chat for course participants.
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Access to class recording (only viewable by course participants).​
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Bonus: Baladi improvisation typical structure crib sheet
Technique focused lessons with clear explanations
Small group, capped class size and supportive atmosphere
Reasons to join us
Exciting, inspiring and challenging choreographic combinations
Clear corrections and support, in and out of class
Expert, award winning teacher with 15 years of experience
About your teacher
Jessica is an International teacher and performer with over 15 years experience in bellydance. Her style is best described as elegant oriental true to the Egyptian musicality and roots of the dance, with the latest up-to-date, modern and exciting technique. She is known for her clear explanations of technique and extensive knowledge and is an in-demand teacher as a result.
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Jessica has studied baladi extensively with many Egyptian teachers including Kareem Gad, Tito Seif, Khaled Mahmoud, Hossam Ramzy, Nada el masriya and Randa Kamel. Jessica has studied with, and been mentored by, master teachers to develop her own unique style and travels regularly to festivals and to Cairo to enhance her knowledge and learning.
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Jessica has won various International Competitions, including first place in Rising Star category at Leylet Hob festival (Switzerland, 2024), first place in semi-professional Oriental and Baladi/Shaabi categories at Safar Festival (Italy, 2024), and 2nd place in professional category in the Bellydance Now International Competition.
Jessica is a highly sought after performer and has danced in restaurants, parties and weddings for many years across the UK.
FAQ
Q. Will this course be too difficult for me?
A. There will be options offered within classes to adapt to different experience levels. Technique is taught from first principles so students of different experience levels will be able to take part. Do get in touch to discuss if you have any doubts.​
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Q. What if I can't make a class due to holiday or illness?
A. The class will be recorded for you to catch up in your own time.
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Q. Can I just book individual classes?
A. Given the nature of the course, students will get the most out of attending the full course as we will build upon the technique each week.
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Q. Will this course be challenging enough for me? I've studied baladi before
A. Yes! This course will be great for you to learn new technique and receive corrections, expand your knowledge of the style and learn new combinations.
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Q. Why have you limited participant numbers?
A. Participants are limited so that I can give each student time and attention, rather than for reasons of studio space. Once the course is full, it's full.
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