We've made it easier than ever to tailor your class experience for your budget, schedule, and needs.
Single Classes:A one-time purchase of a class is perfect for you if you're just dipping your toes into the belly dance waters but aren't quite ready to commit to several classes. Learn more about single class passes here |
Punch Cards:Save a little by purchasing 6 or 12 classes at a time. You then can choose your classes as your schedule allows. 6-punch cards are good for three months and 12 punch cards are good for six months. Learn more about punch cards here |
Class Series:Since our choreography classes are not designed for the drop-in student, purchasing the class series automatically enrolls you in the full session of classes when you book your first class of the series. Series classes have access to video support as well. Learn more about class series passes here |
Memberships:The best deal around! Memberships give you access to multiple classes plus video content for your practice at a deeply discounted monthly rate. We offer a few different membership levels for your needs and budget. Learn more about memberships here |
Below you will find general class descriptions to help you find the perfect class for you.
For beginners:
Belly Dance Fundamentals
This is where it all begins! In each upbeat hour of this class you will learn the fundamental movements of belly dance using the Datura Style™ technique and vocabulary. No prior dance experience required. Wear comfortable workout clothes that fit close to your body and a quiet scarf around your hips if you like! Bare feet, socks, or soft dance shoes are recommended.
Mondays 6:15-7:15pm in person
Wednesdays 10:00-11:00am CST via Zoom
This is where it all begins! In each upbeat hour of this class you will learn the fundamental movements of belly dance using the Datura Style™ technique and vocabulary. No prior dance experience required. Wear comfortable workout clothes that fit close to your body and a quiet scarf around your hips if you like! Bare feet, socks, or soft dance shoes are recommended.
Mondays 6:15-7:15pm in person
Wednesdays 10:00-11:00am CST via Zoom
For all levels:
Belly Dance Buffet
A little of this.... a little of that. This all-levels skill building drop-in style class will work on specific movements, phrases, and concepts that change from week to week. Grounded in Datura Style technique, it's a great way to work technique and improve your overall dance form.
Tuesdays 10:00-11:00am in person
Tuesdays 7:00-8:00pm CST via Zoom
A little of this.... a little of that. This all-levels skill building drop-in style class will work on specific movements, phrases, and concepts that change from week to week. Grounded in Datura Style technique, it's a great way to work technique and improve your overall dance form.
Tuesdays 10:00-11:00am in person
Tuesdays 7:00-8:00pm CST via Zoom
Beyond fundamentals:
Datura Style Combinations
This is a multi-level class focused on Datura Style™ belly dance training. Here we dive into combinations and finger cymbal patterns as well as how to flow from movement to movement using our accumulated vocabulary.
Prerequisite: At least one prior course of Belly Dance Fundamentals or instructor approval.
Thursdays 6:15-7:30pm in person
Datura Group Improvisation
This class is for anyone who wants to explore the act of creative community in Datura Style belly dance. We will learn the ins and outs of Datura Style Group Improvisation, learning how to lead, follow, cue, and transition in the dance. This class welcomes all dancers who have taken Belly Dance Fundamentals or who have experience with Datura Style, Fat Chance, or other similar vocabularies for group improvisation.
Thursdays 7:45-9:00pm in person
Fusion Choreography
This class is for the advancing dancer to work on concepts in contemporary belly dance such as layering movements, theatricality, performance skills, and more advanced prop work including playing finger cymbals and sword balancing. Each course sees the completion of a full choreography. Prerequisite: Completion of Belly Dance Fundamentals and/or instructor approval. This is a dedicated session course with no drop-in options.
Tuesdays 8:15-9:30pm CST via Zoom
Wednesdays 6:00-7:15pm in person
This is a multi-level class focused on Datura Style™ belly dance training. Here we dive into combinations and finger cymbal patterns as well as how to flow from movement to movement using our accumulated vocabulary.
Prerequisite: At least one prior course of Belly Dance Fundamentals or instructor approval.
Thursdays 6:15-7:30pm in person
Datura Group Improvisation
This class is for anyone who wants to explore the act of creative community in Datura Style belly dance. We will learn the ins and outs of Datura Style Group Improvisation, learning how to lead, follow, cue, and transition in the dance. This class welcomes all dancers who have taken Belly Dance Fundamentals or who have experience with Datura Style, Fat Chance, or other similar vocabularies for group improvisation.
Thursdays 7:45-9:00pm in person
Fusion Choreography
This class is for the advancing dancer to work on concepts in contemporary belly dance such as layering movements, theatricality, performance skills, and more advanced prop work including playing finger cymbals and sword balancing. Each course sees the completion of a full choreography. Prerequisite: Completion of Belly Dance Fundamentals and/or instructor approval. This is a dedicated session course with no drop-in options.
Tuesdays 8:15-9:30pm CST via Zoom
Wednesdays 6:00-7:15pm in person
Selective Enrollment:
La Groove Fatale Troupe Class
La Groove Fatale is a dedicated group of dancers who have achieved an advanced level of skill and artistry. Troupe members are required to perform at studio and local community shows including the annual Elgin Fringe Festival and will be given other exclusive performance opportunities. Prerequisite: Min 2 years of study with Christina and instructor invitation.
Mondays 7:30-9:00 in person
La Groove Fatale is a dedicated group of dancers who have achieved an advanced level of skill and artistry. Troupe members are required to perform at studio and local community shows including the annual Elgin Fringe Festival and will be given other exclusive performance opportunities. Prerequisite: Min 2 years of study with Christina and instructor invitation.
Mondays 7:30-9:00 in person
Frequently Asked Questions:
About our class content:
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Q: What is Datura Style Belly Dance?
A: Datura Style™ is both a vocabulary and an approach to technique developed by Rachel Brice through the inspiration of her own teachers, collaborators, and influences. Below are my Datura Style™ classes:
A: Fusion Belly Dance is a style that has flourished in the 21st century. It is rooted in traditional dance movement from the Arab world and North Africa but also respectfully borrows from other dance forms to create a blend or fusion of movement. At Eastern Groove we strive for cultural appreciation and artistic evolution rather than cultural appropriation and erasure as we learn and perform fusion dance. My choreography classes are based in the broader idea that is Fusion Belly Dance. |
Christina King is an officially certified Datura Style instructor.
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About Class Structure:
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Q: Where are in-person classes held?
A: The Light Lounge at Vern's | 77 S. Riverside Drive, Elgin IL, 60120. There is ample free parking next to our building. Q: What do I need for class? A: Here's what I recommend:
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