Middle Eastern Dance Academy of CT

For residents across Connecticut seeking to explore unique dance forms, embrace new cultures, or simply find a dynamic way to stay active, the Middle Eastern Dance Academy of CT (MDA) in West Haven offers an exceptional and authentic experience. Led by the multi-award-winning professional Oriental dance artist and choreographer, Kelvia Mitri-Meda, MDA is much more than just a dance studio; it's a vibrant hub for cultural immersion and artistic expression.

Since its founding, MDA has become a cornerstone of the dance community in Connecticut, providing high-quality instruction in Middle Eastern dance forms, as well as other global rhythms like Puerto Rican Bomba. Kelvia's deep connection to the Middle East, stemming from her frequent travels and experiences living there, allows her to bring an unparalleled level of authenticity and cultural richness to her classes and performances. This commitment to genuine artistry and engaging instruction makes MDA a truly unique point of interest for anyone in Connecticut eager to delve into the captivating world of Middle Eastern dance and beyond. Many students praise Kelvia's friendly and engaging teaching style, highlighting her ability to help dancers build a strong foundation and refine their skills, regardless of their prior experience.

The Middle Eastern Dance Academy of CT is conveniently located at 243 Captain Thomas Boulevard, West Haven, CT 06516, USA. This West Haven address makes it highly accessible for residents throughout Southern Connecticut, including those from New Haven, Milford, Orange, and other surrounding towns. Situated in a well-known area, navigating to the studio is typically straightforward. Captain Thomas Boulevard offers convenient access from major local roadways, easing the commute for students traveling from various parts of the region. Ample parking is generally available in the vicinity, which adds to the convenience for both students attending classes and clients booking performances. The strategic location of MDA in West Haven ensures that a diverse range of dance and cultural experiences is within easy reach for a broad spectrum of Connecticut locals, making it a true asset to the regional arts scene.

Services Offered:

• Belly Dance Combos (Oriental Dance): Core classes focusing on combinations and techniques in various styles of belly dance, suitable for different levels.
• Belly Dance Drills & Technique Classes: Dedicated sessions to strengthen foundational belly dance movements, muscle memory, and understanding of rhythms.
• Introduction to Dabke & MENA Folklore: Classes introducing the energetic Dabke dance and other folk traditions from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA region).
• Puerto Rican Bomba: Instruction in the traditional Afro-Puerto Rican dance form, offered in collaboration with Movimiento Cultural.
• Modern Oriental Dance Choreography: Classes focusing on learning and mastering specific choreographies, often incorporating Lebanese stylization and Egyptian techniques.
• Private Dance Lessons: Personalized one-on-one instruction for individuals seeking focused attention and accelerated progress in specific dance styles.
• Professional Dance Performances: The "MDA Girls," CT's official professional Oriental Dance Team, are available for hire for various events, including weddings, bridal showers, birthday parties, corporate events, and cultural festivals. Performances can include props like Wings of Isis, sword, veil, and more.
• Performance Coaching: Kelvia Mitri-Meda provides coaching for aspiring professional Oriental dance artists.
• Workshops & Events: Regular workshops, "Sip & Shimmy" events, and participation in larger dance conventions like "CONN RAQS" (Connecticut's premiere Middle Eastern Dance Festival) that offer intensive learning and performance opportunities.
• Online Class Options: Live online classes available for various dance forms, offering flexibility for students who cannot attend in person.
• Fitness Classes: Beyond dance, the center also offers fitness-oriented sessions, combining dance with physical conditioning.

Features / Highlights:

• Expert Instruction by Kelvia Mitri-Meda: The studio is founded and led by Kelvia Mitri-Meda, a multi-award-winning professional Oriental dance artist and choreographer. Her extensive experience (over 20 years in professional entertainment), deep cultural knowledge, and passion for teaching are consistently highlighted.
• Authentic Cultural Experience: Kelvia's frequent travels and experience living in the Middle East allow her to bring an authentic and rich cultural understanding to her instruction, enriching the learning experience.
• Diverse Dance Offerings: Beyond traditional belly dance, MDA offers classes in other global dance forms like Puerto Rican Bomba and Dabke, providing a broader cultural dance education.
• Focus on Foundations: Even for experienced dancers, classes emphasize foundational techniques, which students find highly beneficial for strengthening their basics.
• Engaging and Friendly Teaching Style: Kelvia is praised for being a "friendly and engaging teacher" who makes classes fun, motivational, and uplifting, fostering a positive learning environment.
• Professional Performance Team: The "MDA Girls" are CT's only official professional Oriental Dance Team, offering high-energy and interactive performances for various events.
• Empowering and Confidence-Building: Students frequently note that Kelvia's instruction helps them build confidence and pushes them to explore their artistic voice, sometimes even inspiring them to pursue professional dance.
• Accessible for All Levels: Whether you're an absolute beginner or an experienced dancer, the classes are structured to accommodate and challenge individuals appropriately.
• Community and Support: MDA fosters a supportive environment where students feel encouraged and connected, forming a "sisterhood" among dancers.
• Woman-Owned, Latinx-Owned, Veteran-Owned: These attributes reflect the diverse leadership and inclusive values of the academy.

Contact Information:

Address: 243 Captain Thomas Blvd, West Haven, CT 06516, USA

Phone: (203) 691-8121

Mobile Phone: +1 203-691-8121

For residents across Connecticut, the Middle Eastern Dance Academy of CT (MDA) in West Haven is an exceptional destination for anyone looking to explore the captivating world of dance, particularly Middle Eastern and global rhythms. Its accessible location in West Haven makes it a convenient choice for individuals and families not only in New Haven County but also from surrounding areas who are seeking high-quality and culturally rich dance instruction without having to travel extensively. This local accessibility is a significant advantage for those looking to integrate dance into their lives.

What truly sets MDA apart for Connecticut locals is the unparalleled expertise and passion of its founder, Kelvia Mitri-Meda. Her deep authentic connection to the cultural roots of Middle Eastern dance, combined with her engaging and supportive teaching style, creates an environment where every student, regardless of their starting point, feels empowered and motivated. Reviews consistently highlight how Kelvia helps students build a strong foundation and gain confidence, making the learning process enjoyable and deeply rewarding. This emphasis on foundational knowledge ensures that students develop a comprehensive understanding of the dance forms, fostering both technical skill and artistic expression.

Furthermore, the diverse offerings at MDA, including not just belly dance but also Dabke and Puerto Rican Bomba, cater to a wide array of cultural interests, providing local residents with unique opportunities for cultural enrichment right here in Connecticut. The option for online classes also adds flexibility, allowing even more locals to participate regardless of their schedule or proximity. For those planning special events, the availability of the "MDA Girls" as a professional performance troupe offers a unique and authentic entertainment option within the state. In essence, for any Connecticut resident seeking a dance experience that is authentic, empowering, and led by a truly passionate expert, the Middle Eastern Dance Academy of CT is a premier local resource that brings the world of dance to our doorstep.

Middle Eastern Dance Academy of CT

243 Captain Thomas Blvd, West Haven, CT 06516, USA