If you're here, you're probably looking for more than just a Bellydance class.
Hi, I'm Joharah, BellyUp's Creator and Instructor.
Most people call me Jo.
Let's get you started!
There are a lot of ways people come into this dance form, commonly referred to as "Bellydance".
Some just want to move their body. Some want to feel more feminine. Some want to learn a choreography. Some aren't totally sure what they're looking for yet. And honestly, all of that is part of the journey.
But at a certain point, most dancers start to want more. More understanding. More connection. More clarity in what they're doing.
That's really where my work begins.
Winter Courses / December Pop-Up Classes / Private Lessons
Join me this Winter and discover the art and heart of Egyptian dance. I'll be offering Winter Courses (both Beginner and Multi-Level) starting January 17th, offering opportunities to develop your technique, musicality and understanding of Raqs Sharqi in a welcoming and inspiring environment. You can also join me for all levels December pop-up classes (December 22nd and 30th to keep you dancing through the holiday season. Or, explore private lessons for personalized instruction, technique refinement or customized choreography. Whether you're continuing your dance journey or looking for a new way to move, there's always an opportunity to learn, connect and enjoy the richness of Egyptian dance.
Click here for Winter Course information and registration. Click here for Private or Semi-Private Lesson information.
My approach
I don't just teach combinations. And this isn't about just learning choreography.
My passion has been teaching Raqs Sharqi aka Bellydance as an art form for over 20 years - shaped by Middle Eastern music, culture, nuance, interpretation
and self-expression.
In my classes, I break things down, refine details, go deeper into movements and the music to help you understand how you're moving, so you're not just following me, you're actually dancing with purpose. We come back to the foundations and actually build upon them properly.
You're not left to figure things out on your own - I'm right there with you the whole way.
What you'll learn
When you train with me, you'll be working on:
- Understanding the vocabulary and feeling of the dance
- Developing musicality in a way that makes sense to your body
- Refining your technique without feeling rushed or overlooked
- Eventually, moving in a way that feels like you
My goal isn't just for you to follow along. It's for you to understand what you're doing - so you can make choices, not just copy movement. And in Raqs Sharqi, that understanding is what allows the dance to feel expressive, musical and alive - not just executed.
I believe confidence comes from understanding,
not just keeping up.
How I teach
I'm very interested in my students. I care about how you're progressing, how things are landing in your body, and whether you actually feel what you're doing and are getting the movements inside your body. Not just getting through them.
I'll support you, but I'll also challenge you. You won't be invisible. And you won't be left behind either. I just ask you to be present and participate.
My classes are a great fit if you:
- Want to understand the dance form, not just follow along
- Are open to slowing down and building the skills
- Want to feel supported and challenged
If you're looking for something more casual, or dance fitness oriented, this might not be the right fit - and that's okay.
The more you study this dance form, you notice more, understand more, and feel more connected to the music and your body and how it's meant to move in the Raqs Sharqi way. The dance marinates within you as you grow and become more fluid and natural.
If that's what you're looking for, you've just found a place to feel at home. We hope you'll come train with us!
