Ahlam Academy of Middle Eastern Dance @ Oriental Phoenix Arts

For those in Houston and the surrounding Texas communities looking for a unique and empowering way to move, connect, and learn, Ahlam Academy of Middle Eastern Dance, housed within Oriental Phoenix Arts, offers an extraordinary opportunity. This isn't just about learning dance steps; it's an immersive journey into the rich history, intricate techniques, and vibrant culture of Middle Eastern dance, commonly known as belly dance. Whether you're a complete beginner seeking a new hobby or an experienced dancer looking to refine your skills, Ahlam Academy provides a welcoming and inspiring environment where artistry, fitness, and community intertwine.

Ahlam Academy of Middle Eastern Dance, as the exclusive home of the Ahlam Academy program created by Oriental Phoenix Arts' owner, Anna Schkade-Siytangco, is dedicated to providing fun and empowering culturally-sourced dance classes for teen and adult women. The academy's philosophy goes beyond physical movement, aiming to energize the body, fascinate the mind, and uplift the soul. They focus on helping women build confidence, feel more beautiful, and enjoy their lives more through the art of belly dancing. This holistic approach ensures that students not only gain technical prowess but also experience personal growth and a deeper connection to themselves and a supportive community.

The enthusiasm from students truly speaks volumes about the experience at Ahlam Academy. One student shared, "I have been attending beginner classes here for almost 6 months and it has been an amazing and fun experience. Anna is an amazing instructor and motivates me to learn belly dance techniques, choreography, as well as its history, origins and costuming for various dance forms. All instructors here are super friendly and knowledgeable. They are always willing to answer my questions and truly guide me in my journey. I feel very blessed to be a part of this institution and it has helped me become a better dancer!" Another glowing review stated, "I have been attending classes for about 6 weeks. I am enjoying the heck out of it and learning so much fast but efficiently! Just wanted to venture into a hobby and instantly knew that this was going to be it! Ana breaks it down so I can understand what the I am trying to feel in each move. I recommend trying belly dancing with Ana at Ahlam Academy! The atmosphere is welcoming and the staff and other students are great! Yes! You want to do this! Stop considering it and just go for it!" These testimonials highlight the supportive environment, expert instruction, and transformative power of the classes.

Ahlam Academy of Middle Eastern Dance is conveniently located at 17440 FM 529 #107B, Houston, TX 77095, USA. This easily accessible address places it in the far Northwest Houston area, serving communities such as Copperfield, Cy-Fair, and Cypress. The studio's presence in this bustling part of Houston ensures that a broad range of local Texans can conveniently access their enriching classes. Being situated off FM 529, a major thoroughfare, makes it simple for students from various neighborhoods to reach the academy for their regular sessions. The accessibility of the location is crucial for fostering consistent participation and building a strong dance community, allowing more individuals to discover the joy and benefits of Middle Eastern dance without extensive travel across our expansive city.

Ahlam Academy of Middle Eastern Dance, as part of Oriental Phoenix Arts, offers a specialized curriculum focused on various aspects of belly dance, catering to different skill levels.

• Belly Dance Choreography (Beginner-Intermediate): These classes are designed to teach students specific dance routines, allowing them to apply learned techniques in a flowing, artistic sequence. This is ideal for those looking to perform or simply enjoy the art of a full dance piece. It includes learning essential movements and steps in a step-by-step program.
• Belly Dance Core Conditioning (Beginner – Advanced): This class focuses on building core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. It's a perfect blend of technique and fitness, suitable for all skill levels, from beginners looking to establish a strong foundation to advanced dancers aiming to refine their control and isolations. It delves into the underlying mechanics of belly dance movements.
• Master Class (Intermediate - Advanced – Invitation Only): For dedicated and experienced dancers, these exclusive classes provide advanced training and deeper exploration of complex techniques and artistry, often by invitation only.
• Exploration of History and Origins: Beyond physical movement, classes often incorporate the history, origins, and cultural significance of various Middle Eastern dance forms, including discussions on costuming.
• Technique, Strength, Flexibility, and Coordination: The curriculum consistently emphasizes these core elements, which are vital for effective and graceful belly dancing.
• Building Confidence and Body Awareness: A significant aspect of the academy's offering is helping students gain confidence, improve body image, and feel more connected to their bodies through movement.
• Use of Props: Students may learn to incorporate traditional belly dance props such as veils and zills (finger cymbals) into their routines.
• Trial Classes/Intro Offers: Often available to allow new students to experience the classes before committing to a full package.

Ahlam Academy of Middle Eastern Dance @ Oriental Phoenix Arts is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a truly special place for learning and growth.

• Expert and Nurturing Instructors: Led by Anna Schkade-Siytangco and other knowledgeable teachers like Kelli Nottingham, the instructors are consistently praised for their ability to break down complex movements, provide clear guidance, and create a supportive learning environment. As one review noted, Anna "motivates me to learn belly dance techniques, choreography, as well as its history, origins and costuming."
• Welcoming and Inclusive Atmosphere: The academy prides itself on being an "inclusive space" where "women of all ages, shapes, sizes, and ethnicities" are welcomed without judgment. This creates a comfortable setting where students can feel "right at home" from their very first class.
• Comprehensive Approach: Students learn not only the physical techniques of belly dance but also its rich history, cultural context, and the significance of various dance forms and costuming, providing a well-rounded education.
• Focus on Confidence and Empowerment: Numerous testimonials highlight how the classes help students "build confidence," "feel better about body," and "step out of shell," fostering personal transformation through dance.
• Progressive and Efficient Learning: Students report learning "so much fast but efficiently," with instructors adept at breaking down movements so they are easy to understand and integrate.
• Community and Support: The academy fosters a strong sense of community, with students describing it as "the most accepting and supportive group of people I have ever known," emphasizing true friendship and mutual encouragement.
• Holistic Benefits: Beyond being a fun workout, the classes offer benefits like stress relief, improved core strength, flexibility, coordination, and overall well-being, making it a great choice for both physical and mental health.

For Texans interested in embarking on their Middle Eastern dance journey with Ahlam Academy, here is the contact information:

Address: 17440 FM 529 #107B, Houston, TX 77095, USA

Phone: (281) 394-0476

Mobile Phone: +1 281-394-0476

You can also visit the Oriental Phoenix Arts website for more detailed class schedules, pricing information, and to book your first class or take advantage of introductory offers. Their friendly staff are ready to answer any questions and guide you in starting your belly dance experience.

For locals in Houston and surrounding Texas areas, Ahlam Academy of Middle Eastern Dance @ Oriental Phoenix Arts is truly a "hidden gem" that offers far more than just dance lessons. Its convenient location ensures accessibility, making it easy for Texans to integrate this enriching activity into their lives. What makes it particularly suitable for our community is its unique blend of expert-led instruction, comprehensive cultural education, and an incredibly supportive, welcoming environment. Whether you're seeking a fun new way to exercise, aiming to boost your confidence, or deeply interested in exploring the artistic and historical nuances of Middle Eastern dance, Ahlam Academy provides an inclusive space where you can learn, grow, and connect with a fantastic community. It’s a wonderful opportunity for Texans to embrace a vibrant cultural art form, build strength, and find joy right here in our own backyard.

Ahlam Academy of Middle Eastern Dance @ Oriental Phoenix Arts

17440 FM 529 #107B, Houston, TX 77095, USA