Bellydancers Of Color Collective

For women in Maryland seeking a unique blend of fitness, cultural enrichment, and empowering community, the Bellydancers Of Color Collective (BOCC) in Lanham offers a truly distinctive experience. This collective is dedicated to celebrating and restoring the rich dance lineage of bellydancers throughout the African diaspora, connecting and honoring the artistic human experience, strength, and beauty of people of color through the expressive art of belly dance, drum, and other traditional dance forms. More than just a dance studio, BOCC is a sanctuary where movement serves as a "moving meditation, a healing salve to the soul," inviting women to embrace and love all of who they are—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Whether you're an experienced dancer or taking your very first shimmy, BOCC provides an inclusive and uplifting environment to discover the joy and transformative power of this ancient art form.

Bellydancers Of Color Collective (BOCC) was founded in 2017 with a profound mission: to shift the narrative of belly dance and reconnect it to its African roots. Historically, belly dance is considered one of the oldest forms of dance, with its origins traced back to Africa. Traditionally, it was performed by women, for women, during ceremonies of fertility, pre-marriage rituals, and as a way for women to gather, celebrate each other's beauty, femininity, and life stages. BOCC proudly continues this legacy, specializing in Afro-Caribbean Fusion Bellydance classes, events, and performances. They actively aim to collaborate and connect dancers of color globally, moving the conversation of the dance back to its source. Their approach is not just about mastering techniques but about fostering a soulful connection to the dance, embodying its healing aspects, and celebrating the divine feminine energy that has been passed down through generations. The collective believes that dance opens energy channels, promotes vitality, and when revered as sacred, becomes a manifestation of the Divine in action.

The Bellydancers Of Color Collective is conveniently located at 8907 Annapolis Rd, Lanham, MD 20706, USA. This central location in Lanham, Maryland, makes it highly accessible for residents across Prince George's County and the wider D.C. metropolitan area. Situated on Annapolis Road, a major thoroughfare, the studio is easy to find and navigate to, whether you are driving or utilizing public transportation. For those arriving by car, there are typically parking options available, ensuring a hassle-free arrival. The strategic placement of BOCC allows a broad spectrum of local users to easily participate in their unique and culturally rich dance classes and workshops, fostering a vibrant and diverse community right in the heart of Maryland. The accessibility of the location is key to making this empowering space available to as many women as possible.

Bellydancers Of Color Collective provides a diverse range of classes and workshops designed to cater to various skill levels and interests, all with a foundational emphasis on belly dance and holistic wellness.

• "Got Moor Hips" Afro-Caribbean Fusion Bellydance Classes: These classes, held online and in-studio (at Dragon Academy Martial Arts), interpret belly dance through an African American lens, incorporating "bootylicious" movements and musical genres like R&B, House, Reggae, African drum, and traditional belly dance. They are described as a "no judgment zone" and a "sacred circle of souls."
• "Soulful Hips" Afro-Caribbean Styled Bellydance Classes: Offered both online and in-person, these classes focus on fundamental belly dance movements with a multicultural flair, led by different instructors who bring their unique interpretations to the dance.
• "Fabulicious Bellydance Friday Class": A vibrant sisterhood belly dance "total groove" focusing on self-love, typically held on the 2nd and 4th Fridays.
• Shakti Yoga: In-person and livestream classes exploring Chakra energy Yoga through the lens of the Divine Feminine, designed to awaken inner Goddess energy and connect breath, movement, sound, and meditation.
• Kemetic Yoga: In-person and livestream invigorating sessions rooted in ancient Egyptian practices, blending physical postures, breathwork, and meditation for holistic wellness and connection to self and the universe.
• Specialized Workshops & Masterclasses: These include topics such as "Womb Wisdom," "Sword Workshop," "Wine & Waistbeads," and "Burlesque 101: Chic Geek Sexy Fun," offering deeper dives into specific aspects of movement, healing, and cultural expression.
• Performance Opportunities: While not explicitly detailed for students, the collective likely offers opportunities for students to participate in showcases or events, contributing to the "Glow Hafla" (Holiday Show and Party) mentioned.
• Online & In-Studio Options: Many classes are available both in-person and via livestream, providing flexibility and accessibility for students regardless of their physical location or scheduling constraints.

The Bellydancers Of Color Collective stands out in the Maryland dance scene due to its unique focus and empowering approach:

• Cultural Preservation and Restoration: BOCC is dedicated to celebrating and restoring the African lineage of belly dance, shifting the narrative and connecting the art form back to its historical roots.
• Afro-Caribbean Fusion Style: Their specialization in Afro-Caribbean Fusion Bellydance offers a distinct and vibrant style that incorporates diverse musical genres and movement aesthetics.
• Holistic Wellness Approach: Beyond physical movement, the collective emphasizes dance as a "moving meditation," a "healing salve to the soul," and a means to embrace self-love, vitality, and spiritual well-being.
• Empowering Women: The mission centers on helping women embrace and love all of who they are—physically, mentally, and spiritually—through dance.
• Inclusive Community: BOCC provides a "no judgment zone" and a "sacred circle of souls," fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for women of all ages, shapes, and sizes, from beginners to advanced dancers.
• Diverse Curriculum: Offers not only various belly dance styles but also complementary practices like Shakti Yoga and Kemetic Yoga, promoting comprehensive mind-body connection.
• Experienced Instructors: While specific instructor bios are available on their website, the collective is led by individuals passionate about the dance and its cultural significance.
• Flexible Learning Options: The availability of both in-person and online (livestream) classes makes participation convenient for a wider audience in Maryland.
• Focus on the Divine Feminine: Classes are often themed around awakening inner Goddess energy and celebrating womanhood, offering a profound and empowering experience.

For those in Maryland interested in joining the Bellydancers Of Color Collective or learning more about their classes and events, please use the following contact information:

Address: 8907 Annapolis Rd, Lanham, MD 20706, USA

Phone: (240) 600-1720

For locals in Maryland, especially those in Lanham and surrounding areas, the Bellydancers Of Color Collective is an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, its convenient location on Annapolis Road ensures easy access for community members, making it simple to integrate dance classes into busy schedules. However, what truly distinguishes BOCC is its unique and profound approach to dance education. It’s not merely a studio for learning steps; it’s a vibrant community dedicated to cultural restoration, healing, and empowering women through movement.

For women seeking a fitness activity that goes beyond the physical, BOCC offers a "moving meditation" and a "healing salve to the soul." This holistic approach, which emphasizes embracing oneself physically, mentally, and spiritually, resonates deeply with those looking for more than just a workout. The collective’s commitment to celebrating and restoring the African lineage of belly dance provides a rich cultural context often missing in other dance programs, making it particularly appealing for individuals interested in heritage and cultural expression.

The inclusive environment, described as a "no judgment zone," ensures that women of all ages, body types, and experience levels feel welcome and supported. This sense of sisterhood and community is invaluable, fostering connections and a shared journey of self-discovery. With a diverse array of classes, including Afro-Caribbean Fusion Bellydance and various forms of Yoga, coupled with the flexibility of both in-person and online options, BOCC is designed to accommodate the diverse needs of Maryland residents. For anyone in Maryland seeking a space to embrace their inner goddess, connect with a vibrant community, and experience the healing power of dance, the Bellydancers Of Color Collective is an undeniable gem.

Bellydancers Of Color Collective

8907 Annapolis Rd, Lanham, MD 20706, USA