“The biggest surprise for me is that I am actually able to shed my old ingrained dance reflexes and learn a new dance style. This may sound crazy but I’m impressed with the fact that I can actually do things I did not think I could ever do. Something as simple as my dancing in nearly bare feet amazes me. And I love new my tribe of wonderful, welcoming and talented humans. At the end of a challenging day truly I look forward to spending time immersed in dance and working with my friends through unity and cooperation to create dance.”

Jaki, Starbelly Student

“My wife Leslie started taking classes about a year before I did and she very much enjoyed the dance and camaraderie of the school and from time to time encouraged me to try it. I finally decided to start taking classes after seeing a student salon and realizing how amazing belly dance is for maintaining core strength, something that is key to long term health.
My biggest surprise was realizing I could dance. I grew up in an environment that discouraged dance and I always thought I was too awkward to actually move my body in a dance like fashion.
I have learned to laugh at myself, a lot. In learning to dance the realization that you cannot take yourself seriously and have fun and get better at dance was huge and liberating. I love the freedom to screw up and just go, “oh well, I’ll get it next time”, even if next time is 20 times away.”

Nathan, Starbelly Student

“The teachers at starbelly school of dance bring world class instruction to the art of belly dance right here in the treasure valley. The studio is a welcoming environment where students old and new come together to celebrate dance!”-

Alyssa, Starbelly Student

“As a general rule, I am not a patient woman, especially when it comes to myself. When I started belly dance, I knew it would not be easy for me – I have no dance background and no natural affinity for coordinated movement. I set out to just enjoy myself and the process and to be a patient student, trusting that progress will come naturally with time and practice. Surprisingly, I have succeeded at this, for the most part – I am not often frustrated when learning a new move, I trust that by the end of a session of classes I will know the choreography but may not execute it perfectly, and, most importantly, I am truly enjoying the experience rather than strictly focusing on the result. I still have my moments of doubt and insecurity, especially when it comes to performing, but I am happy with where I am. The support provided by everyone at Starbelly has been instrumental for me in this regard – thanks you guys!!”

Dena, Starbelly Student

“While I have often been the oldest student in class, it doesn’t matter your age when it comes to belly dancing. I realize I have some physical limitations, but I have also have discovered that my body can do amazing things that I wasn’t aware of. I love how much belly dancing isn’t limited by age and physical stature. I, like so many others have learned new acceptance of my body with it’s scars and curves…I have grown physically and spiritually as a result of the decision to try belly dancing and I haven’t regretted for a moment. My life is so much richer now with dance and the beautiful souls I get to share it with.”

Tina, Starbelly Student

“Wow. All I can say is I have gained a whole new family at StarBelly! I’ve been taking classes for a little over a year and I would recommend it for anyone. It is an amazing workout and you make a lot of friends. It’s a place to come and release all stress and dance it out. All of the instructors are professional and are very approachable and will go that extra mile to help you. I’m so grateful I took a chance and stepped out of my comfort zone and went to class no knowing anyone. I love it here!”

Cindy

“I started dancing this spring and was a little worried with my physical limitations that the intro class would be hard. I was also worried about how out of shape I felt. I was sore after my first class, but I had so much fun and all self-conscious thoughts went right out the door. Cecilia and Chad make everyone feel comfortable in their own skin and encourage everyone to love themselves as they are in the moment. This is by far the best studio I have ever danced with. As hard as I work the little muscles I had forgotten about, I always feel better after class than when I walk in.”

Tiffany

“It may sound cliché but I discovered that “beauty” is more diverse than what our society wants us to believe. Like most people, I have struggled to love and accept my body as it is… During my time at the school I have seen men and women of different ages, body shapes and sizes who are all there to simply enjoy dance and appreciate that their bodies allows them to express their joy. My body jiggles in many places… but this is my body and it brings me joy when I dance. There is no more hidden shame.”

Virgina, Starbelly Student