Much of what we think of as belly dancing has been shaped by its portrayal in scores of classic movies about the Middle East, like “Sinbad” and “Aladdin,” or perhaps by the opening credits of television’s “I Dream of Jeanie.” Some of those are accurate depictions of the folk dance, but many are just a bunch of tinseltown hokum.
At the American BellyDance Studio in Lutz you can learn numerous authentic styles, from traditional to fusion. ABS owner, Kandy Sinquefield, whose stage name is ‘Kadayif,’ has taught it for more than 20 years. “An ankle injury forced me to give up ballet because I could no longer do the pointe work, and that’s how I got into belly dance,” she said.
Belly dance is an aerobic form of exercise that limits the impact on joints, so everyone can participate. Moreover, it promotes grace, confidence, self-expression, and enhances mobility and offers a great cardio workout to boot.
Sinquefield is a registered nurse by trade, but has studied belly dance all over the world. She gives students safe, attainable goals for dance technique and exercise. Most of her ABS students are professional women like herself, who use classes as unwind time. Classes range from beginner to professional levels, and include basic instruction and specialization in styles such as Turkish Rom, Classic Egyptian, American Tribal, Tribal Fusion, and Gypsy. They even offer a few classes for children.
ABS dancers are featured performers throughout the year at events like the Florida State Fair, renaissance festivals, local parades, various charitable events and several showcases held on site, in their 60-seat, theater space. Performers dance to traditional and nontraditional music as well.
Kadayif works hard to promote a family atmosphere at American BellyDance Studio. “Many of our dancers’ spouses help out during the shows with staging, lighting and concessions. The children’s classes kind of grew out their desire to participate after seeing their mommies practice and perform. It was really kind of a natural progression,” she added.
It’s not all about belly either. ABS also features ballet, hip-hop and jazz classes, which are fused into the performances. For those who aren’t sure if this is the right fit for them, the studio offers free, no obligation, introductory classes, and a very flexible price structure to fit any schedule or budget.
If you’re looking for a fun and exotic way to get a fantastic cardio workout, then follow your gut instincts to American BellyDance Studio, 1.5 miles north of Bearss Ave., in the Sydney Center on the corner of U.S. 41 and Whitaker Road in Lutz.
American Bellydance Studio (logo)
813-416-8333 • AmericanBellyDance.com.com
102 Whitaker Rd. • Lutz, FL 33549 • (in the Sydney Center)
