(DVD/NTSC) Welcome to Zahra's Middle Eastern Dance Basics. "Bellydance" is formally known in the Middle East as Raqs Sharki, loosely meaning Dance of the East or "Oriental Dance". In this video, Zahra will break down over 30 steps and movements widely used in Raqs Sharki.

Basics are the foundation of your dance. Proper basic technique is important in order to move on to more advanced movements.

This video is for the beginning student eager to learn oriental dance, as well as the more experienced dancer who would like to "polish" their technique. Zahra has devised a unique teaching method, beginning with a warm-up series of exercises. When teamed together, these exercises create the basic fundamentals in movement and weight change needed, for a better understanding of how the dance moves are executed. Running time 1 hour, 22 minutes.

Master teacher, performer, and choreographer Zahra is world renowned for her knowledge, authenticity, and dedication to the art of Middle Eastern dance. Raised in Oriental dance since a young girl, Zahra is known for her musicality, flawless technique, and elegant style. She has trained and influenced many of today's Oriental dance stars. Read Zahra Zuhair's Star Interview with OrientalDancer.net.

Watch a video clip of Zahra Zuhair perform



Chapters

1. Posture

2. Warm up

3. Isolations

4. Undulations

5. Hands and arms

6. Spot turning

7. Hips

8. Shimmies

9. Travel steps