Let's start with one of my favourite Australian belly dancers, Aradia, from Canberra. She has invented a unique style - industrial bellydance! The combination of hip-hop style locks and pops with sinuous snake-like movements is mesmerising to watch.
Don't panic if you're a beginner - Aradia won't expect you to pop and lock in her Beginners and Beyond Beginners classes- they're designed to give you a solid foundation in general belly dance. I've seen some of her students perform Egyptian choreographies and been impressed with their technique and performance awareness.
For those who can't attend her Canberra classes, Aradia runs regular Industrial Belly Dance workshops across the country. If you can make it, go - they're well worth it, even if you favour a more conventional style. The techniques taught are highly relevant to all belly dancers, improving body awareness and muscle control. Can't get to a workshop? You can now buy her DVD - here's a clip:
The DVD is available to purchase from her website www.spellboundbellydance.com.au
