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American Dance AcademySchool DanceFloridaSt. Johns CountySt. AugustineSchool Dance in Catherine Towers LaneBlue Lotus Bellydance

Blue Lotus Bellydance

116 Catherine Towers Ln, St. Augustine, FL 32092, USA

3.0
I had an awful experience in this class. I called ahead of time and spoke to the owner who seemed very nice and helpful. I asked about each class and where I would fit. The class that evening was described as basics and learning choreography. That sounded great to me...a little choreography with what I learned would be phenomenal for a first class. I asked again if I'd be OK as a complete beginner. Yes yes I was assured.When I arrived there was a teacher at the front of the class and no one else inthe room but me. I was ignored. A few minutes later a second teacher arrived and stood talking to the first for over 5 minutes still completely ignoring me standing there. Eventually she turned her attention to me and lo and behold she was to be my teacher AND knew to expect me....yet she had still let me stand there awkwardly before finally saying hello. The greeting was lukewarm but okay. So then class started and all was well for about 10 minutes. We went thru a warm up then she taught me two moves the first slowly and well , the second rather quickly. The second "move" was showing the students how to exit the stage after their recital. Then she started the dance. And it went all the way thru, start to finish, with directional changes and moves I didn't know. She said we're gonna keep repeating this....wow sounds fun. If i knew what i was doing. I literally stood there unable to follow and she went thru the dance twice before addressing my awkwardness... "poor cherie you really got thrown into a full dance" she laughed. I said " yes, and I specifically asked on the phone if I'd be OK starting this class" her response was to half laugh and start the dance with the class allover again. I stood there again unable to dance then finally left. I was so upset and demoralized. I had literally driven an entire hour to take this class and paid $30 to stand there while they practiced for a recital.If she had paid any attention to details she would have seen by my movement that I obviously have dance experience and was wearing good Bloch dancing shoes. I would have been a dedicated long term enthusiastic student and they would have likely made $1000's off me.I'm going through a divorce and this class was my way of getting out of my pain and trying to immerse myself into something positive for me..only to get treated that way. I waited an entire day and a half after the class before writing this review fulling expecting the owner to reach out and apologize or try to make it right. But no one did....either Rhonda the teacher hid her poor classroom management skills and didn't tell the owner or she didn't care. I had also stopped at the front desk upset and explained my experience and how far I'd driven to them as well.. I'd have been perfectly happy being put in a corner of the room and practice a few moves with her checking on me between their dance practice but no options were given to me except to literally stand there lost. - cherie
Blue Lotus Bellydance Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Blue Lotus Bellydance Introduce

For individuals in Florida seeking a unique and empowering way to express themselves, improve fitness, and connect with a vibrant community, Blue Lotus Bellydance in St. Augustine offers an exceptional opportunity. Since 2008, Blue Lotus World Dance Company has been a prominent beacon of inspiration and excellence in the local dance scene, focusing on a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern and World Dance styles. This studio is more than just a place to learn steps; it's a sanctuary where individuals can embark on a transformative journey, cultivating their unique dance style in a warm and supportive environment.

Led by the renowned Gina Marie, Blue Lotus Bellydance is dedicated to providing top-notch instruction that caters to both beginners and advanced dancers alike. Gina Marie's extensive experience and commitment to her students ensure a high-quality learning experience, allowing participants to feel confident and empowered as they explore various dance forms. While some new students might find initial classes challenging if not properly placed, the overall ethos of Blue Lotus emphasizes growth, creativity, and the joy of movement. Many locals discover that engaging in belly dance and other world dance styles is not only a fantastic physical workout but also a deeply enriching cultural and spiritual outlet.

In St. Augustine, a city known for its historic charm and appreciation for the arts, Blue Lotus Bellydance adds a distinct flavor, promoting diversity in dance and fostering a strong sense of community among its students. If you've been searching for a positive outlet, a way to build self-confidence, or simply a fun and engaging activity that goes beyond traditional fitness routines, Blue Lotus Bellydance invites you to unlock your true potential and become part of their vibrant dance family. Despite isolated negative experiences, the studio's long-standing presence and its commitment to diverse offerings highlight its dedication to the broader dance community.

Location and Accessibility

Blue Lotus Bellydance is conveniently situated at 116 Catherine Towers Ln, St. Augustine, FL 32092, USA. This location places the studio within the greater St. Augustine area, making it accessible for residents throughout the city and surrounding communities in Florida. St. Augustine, with its expanding residential areas, ensures that the studio is within reasonable driving distance for many keen dancers. While specific details on public transport directly to this address might vary, the area is generally navigable by personal vehicle, and ample parking should be available, which is a key consideration for students attending classes.

The studio's address in St. Augustine's 32092 zip code suggests it is located in a community that likely balances residential convenience with accessibility to local amenities. For individuals in Florida who are looking to consistently engage in dance classes, the relative ease of reaching Blue Lotus Bellydance ensures that participation can be a regular and stress-free part of their routine. The focus on personalized classes, as highlighted by the studio, often means that the environment is manageable even during peak times, contributing to a more relaxed and accessible experience for all students. This strategic placement allows for a broader reach within the Northeast Florida dance community, inviting enthusiasts from various localities to partake in their unique offerings.

Services Offered
  • FCBD Style (formerly American Tribal Style) Bellydance: Comprehensive instruction across levels one through three, focusing on this unique improvisational group dance format.
  • World Fusion Dance: Exploration of dance styles that blend diverse cultural influences, allowing for creative expression and unique movement combinations.
  • Zambra: Classes in the passionate and fiery energy of Zambra, a Spanish Romani style with Middle Eastern influences.
  • Classical Arabic Bellydance: Instruction in the timeless elegance and traditional techniques of classical Arabic belly dance.
  • Props Dialect Classes: Specialized training in dancing with various props, including Isis Wings, Veil, Candle, Skirt, Sword, Tray, and Double Sword techniques.
  • Folkloric Middle Eastern Dance: Lessons in traditional folkloric styles, such as Raks Assaya (Cane Dance).
  • Drum Solo Choreography: Classes dedicated to dancing to complex drum rhythms, developing musicality and isolation techniques.
  • Building Your Own Choreography: Guidance and instruction on the process of creating original dance routines.
  • Sagat/Zills Instruction: Training on how to play and dance with finger cymbals (Sagat/Zills), an essential accessory in many belly dance styles.
  • Beginner Belly Dance Basics & Combinations with Drills: Foundational classes designed for absolute newcomers to introduce basic movements and build technique.
  • Advanced Fire Technique with Props: Specialized classes for experienced students, requiring completion of a fire safety class.
  • Private Lessons: Available by appointment for personalized, one-on-one instruction.
  • Online Classes: Offering flexible learning options for students who cannot attend in person.
  • Performance Opportunities: Providing students with a platform to showcase their talents and collaborate with others in a performance setting.
Features / Highlights

Blue Lotus Bellydance distinguishes itself through several key features and highlights, despite individual customer experiences that may vary:

  • Diverse Range of World Dance Styles: The studio offers an impressive variety of dance forms, including FCBD Style (formerly American Tribal Style), World Fusion, Zambra, and classical Arabic Bellydance, providing a rich cultural and artistic experience. This diversity allows students to explore various facets of global dance traditions.
  • Expert Instruction by Gina Marie: The company is led by Gina Marie, who is highly regarded as a certified instructor in multiple styles, including FCBD Style and Sharqui. Her extensive experience, dating back to 2008, and her dedication to teaching are central to the studio's offerings.
  • Comprehensive Skill Development: Classes are designed to cater to a wide spectrum of skill levels, from beginners taking their first steps to advanced dancers seeking to refine complex techniques. The curriculum covers fundamental basics, combinations, drills, and intricate choreography.
  • Focus on Prop Work: Blue Lotus offers specialized training in dancing with a variety of props such as Isis Wings, Veil, Candle, Skirt, Sword, Tray, and even double sword techniques, adding depth and spectacle to the dance form.
  • Emphasis on Improvisational and Choreographed Dance: Students can learn both improvisational group dance formats like FCBD Style and structured choreography, allowing for versatile skill development and performance readiness.
  • Supportive and Nurturing Environment: The studio aims to provide a warm and supportive atmosphere that fosters growth and creativity, promoting a sense of community among students.
  • Performance and Event Opportunities: Blue Lotus World Dance Company actively participates in and hosts various events, offering students opportunities to perform and share their skills with a broader audience.
  • Online Class Availability: For increased flexibility and accessibility, the studio offers online classes, allowing students to learn from anywhere.
  • Cultural and Spiritual Enrichment: Beyond physical technique, the style of dance taught at Blue Lotus is presented as enriching culturally and spiritually, offering a healthy and creative outlet for individuals of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds.
Contact Information

Address: 116 Catherine Towers Ln, St. Augustine, FL 32092, USA

Phone: (904) 540-2313

Mobile Phone: +1 904-540-2313

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For residents across Florida, especially those in the St. Augustine area, Blue Lotus Bellydance offers a distinctive and enriching opportunity to engage with the art of World Dance. Its location in St. Augustine provides reasonable accessibility for local community members, making it a viable option for those looking to integrate dance classes into their regular routines. While individual experiences may vary, the studio’s long-standing presence since 2008 and its broad range of offerings speak to its established role within the local arts scene.

What makes Blue Lotus Bellydance particularly suitable for locals is its comprehensive curriculum, designed to accommodate a wide spectrum of skill levels, from absolute beginners to experienced dancers. Under the guidance of Gina Marie, a certified and experienced instructor, students have the opportunity to delve into diverse dance forms, including FCBD Style, World Fusion, Zambra, and classical Arabic Bellydance. This variety ensures that there is a style for every interest, fostering a rich and engaging learning experience. The availability of online classes also adds a layer of convenience, allowing more Floridians to access their unique instruction regardless of their physical proximity.

Beyond the technical instruction, Blue Lotus Bellydance aims to cultivate a supportive and creative environment, encouraging personal growth and self-expression. It offers a unique alternative to traditional fitness activities, providing a holistic approach to well-being that engages both mind and body. For individuals seeking to explore a culturally rich art form, develop new skills, or simply find a positive and empowering community outlet, Blue Lotus Bellydance represents a valuable local resource. It’s a place where Floridians can not only learn to dance but also discover a deeper connection to movement, music, and a vibrant artistic community right in their own backyard.

Blue Lotus Bellydance Photos

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Blue Lotus Bellydance Location

Blue Lotus Bellydance

116 Catherine Towers Ln, St. Augustine, FL 32092, USA

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