Expert: Gia al Qamar - 8/13/2007

Question
I have a question...what is your opinion in knowledge of where to find decent dancing classes at a very cheap price?
And in order to go big time (become famous), I have to become experienced, is that correct? And I want to know how to find an agent as good as the cast of High School Musical at a cheap price as well.

Answer
Hi Samantha!
You asked about finding cheaply priced classes so that you can make a career and be a big star as a belly dancer.
I admire your desire and drive!
In my opinion, if you are serious about any artistic endeavor in the performing arts, be it dancing, acting or singing, you should look for the BEST and MOST QUALIFIED teacher...not the cheapest.
To do this, I would email teachers in your area and ask about their level of expertise, see how long they've studied, if they continue to study and ask about their style (there are many different style of Middle Eastern dance).
It takes years and years of dedicated study and practice, often 7 days a week to attain the kind of skill you need, not only as a dancer with great technical skills, but also as a performer who can full interpret the music.
Part of the art of "Belly Dance" is making it LOOK easy...it is not.
And...there are no short cuts.
Dedicating yourself to studying dance will help you acheive the goals that you have set for yourself.
After many years of study, if and when your teacher thinks that yo are ready, you'll be asked to dance at a recital or hafla.  Once you've started performing, you may look into doing semi-professional shows with your teacher, or as a featured performer at a showcase.
As far as the price of classes, generally speaking, you get what you pay for!  ;)
Gia
www.IDreamOfGia.com