Riskallah Riyad

Hello, Connecticut locals! Are you looking to explore a unique and expressive art form that connects deeply with ancient traditions and personal well-being? Step into the captivating world of Middle Eastern dance with Riskallah Riyad, right here in Danbury, CT. Riskallah Riyad, a celebrated performer and master teacher, brings decades of experience and a profound love for Oriental dance to her studio, offering classes that are both enriching and accessible to individuals of all skill levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned professionals.

For over fifty years, Riskallah Riyad has dedicated her life to the art of Middle Eastern dance, sharing her passion and extensive knowledge with countless students. Her classes are more than just lessons in movement; they are an immersion into a vibrant cultural heritage that emphasizes connection between the heart, body, and music. As one long-time student, Alaia Lin, beautifully expressed, "it's going on TEN years that I've been dancing with you! Wow, I never imagined I would have the good fortune to find a teacher as inspired, vital, and talented as you are! Year after year, I just keep learning." This sentiment is echoed by many, who highlight Riskallah's ability to constantly challenge and inspire her students while maintaining a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.

Riskallah's commitment to preserving the integrity of this beautiful dance form, combined with her innovative spirit (she originated the double veil technique in the 1970s!), makes her a truly exceptional instructor. Students consistently praise her expert knowledge, passionate enthusiasm, and her unique ability to guide each dancer to reach greater performance plateaus with respect for their individual capabilities. If you're in Connecticut and seeking a transformative dance experience that nurtures both the soul and the body, Riskallah Riyad offers a truly unparalleled opportunity.

Riskallah Riyad's dance classes are currently held at Vitti's Dance Studio, conveniently located at 10 Precision Rd, Danbury, CT 06810, USA. This address places the studio in a highly accessible part of Danbury, making it a central and easy-to-reach destination for residents throughout Fairfield County and wider Connecticut. Precision Road is a well-known area within Danbury, ensuring straightforward navigation for both local attendees and those traveling from surrounding towns such as Brookfield, Ridgefield, Bethel, or Newtown.

The choice of Vitti's Dance Studio for Riskallah Riyad's classes suggests a professional and well-equipped environment conducive to dance instruction. Ample parking is typically available at such venues, making the process of attending classes convenient for students. This accessible location underscores Riskallah Riyad's commitment to making the art of Middle Eastern dance available to a broad community within Connecticut, fostering a welcoming space for artistic exploration and personal growth.

• Group Belly Dance Classes: Structured classes for various levels, including Beginner Level 1 & 2, Intermediate, Advanced, and Advanced / Professional, ensuring appropriate instruction for all skill sets.
• Ongoing Sessions: Classes run in sessions, allowing for progressive learning, with the flexibility to "BEGIN ANYTIME" at a prorated rate.
• Make-Up Policy: Students can take make-up classes in any other class within the same session, offering flexibility for busy schedules.
• Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction tailored to individual needs and goals, providing personalized attention and accelerated progress.
• Workshops: Offers specialized workshops that provide a deeper level of instruction and exploration of specific techniques or styles within Middle Eastern dance. Riskallah also hosts workshops with high-caliber guest teachers from around the world.
• Teacher Training Course: Offers a specialized "Footprints a Journey Toward Teaching Excellence" course for aspiring and current instructors.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have opportunities to perform in showcases and events produced by Riskallah Riyad, such as the "Celebrate! A Lifetime of Middle Eastern Dance" event.
• Artistic Direction and Choreography: Riskallah Riyad provides expert direction and choreography for solo and ensemble performances in folk and classical Oriental styles.
• Expert Instruction: All classes are taught by Riskallah Riyad herself (except as noted with permission only), ensuring consistent, high-quality instruction rooted in her extensive experience and deep understanding of the dance form.
• Cultural Immersion: Provides an authentic connection to the Middle Eastern roots of the dance, drawing on Riskallah's heritage and passion.
• Double Veil Technique: Specialized instruction in the double veil technique, which Riskallah Riyad originated and perfected.

• Master Teacher with Decades of Experience: Riskallah Riyad has performed and taught nationally for over fifty years, bringing unparalleled experience and insight to her classes. Her passion, vitality, and talent are consistently praised by students.
• Authentic Middle Eastern Heritage: Drawing from her Middle Eastern roots and extensive training with legendary mentors like Ibrahim Farrah and Serena Wilson, Riskallah ensures the integrity and authenticity of the dance form are preserved and passed on.
• Innovator of Double Veil Technique: Riskallah is credited with originating and perfecting the double veil technique in the 1970s, a method now widely imitated, showcasing her pioneering contribution to the art form.
• Holistic Approach to Dance: Riskallah's teaching goes beyond physical steps, focusing on the connection between "one's heart, body, and music," and paying attention to the "soul of the dancer," ensuring a deeply expressive and fulfilling experience.
• Inclusive Learning Environment: Welcomes students from beginner to seasoned professional, with testimonials indicating that she effectively challenges advanced students while providing fundamental guidance for newcomers.
• High-Caliber Workshops: Riskallah not only teaches workshops nationally but also hosts renowned international teachers, providing students with access to diverse expertise and enriching learning opportunities.
• Positive Student Transformations: Students consistently report profound personal growth, increased confidence, and a deeper appreciation for movement and music, describing their experience as "life-changing."
• Professional Performance Opportunities: Students have the chance to perform in well-produced shows, showcasing their progress in a professional setting, often alongside guest artists.
• Strong Community and Mentorship: Riskallah is described as a "wonderful human being" who "truly brings out the best in each and every one of her students," fostering a supportive and inspiring learning community.

Address: 10 Precision Rd, Danbury, CT 06810, USA

Phone: (203) 267-1677

Mobile Phone: +1 203-267-1677

For Connecticut residents, particularly those in the Danbury area and surrounding communities, studying with Riskallah Riyad offers a truly unique and enriching opportunity to engage with the art of Middle Eastern dance. Her profound experience, spanning over five decades, and her direct lineage to legendary figures in the field, mean that locals have access to world-class instruction right in their backyard. This isn't just a dance class; it's a chance to learn from a living master who has shaped the art form itself.

The suitability for locals is amplified by the glowing testimonials from her students, who speak of a learning environment that is both challenging and deeply nurturing. Riskallah's ability to cater to all levels, from beginners curious about belly dance to advanced dancers seeking to refine their technique, ensures that everyone feels welcome and supported. The flexibility of ongoing sessions and make-up classes also caters to the busy schedules of Connecticut residents.

Beyond the technical skills, students consistently emphasize the personal growth and joyful connection they experience. Learning with Riskallah is described as a "life-changing" journey that fosters self-expression, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for culture and movement. The opportunity to participate in professional performances and workshops with international guest artists further enriches the experience, providing invaluable exposure. For anyone in Connecticut seeking to explore Middle Eastern dance in an authentic, inspiring, and community-focused setting, Riskallah Riyad's studio in Danbury is undoubtedly the ideal destination. It's a true cultural asset that enriches the artistic landscape of the region.

Riskallah Riyad

10 Precision Rd, Danbury, CT 06810, USA