Elegance in Motion bellydance workshop - Saturday, December 5th, 10am-12pm. Doors open at 9:30am at the LaVita Community Center. Only $50 before November 1st - $65 afterwards. 
 
Explore the grounded elegance and expressive movement principles associated with Mahmoud Reda’s enduring legacy. This all-level workshop will focus on posture, weight placement, graceful arm pathways, flowing transitions, and a selection of traveling patterns that continue to influence modern Egyptian dance.

Through guided exercises and short combinations, dancers will discover how subtle changes in alignment, intention, and musical phrasing can create greater ease, elegance, and confidence. No choreography to memorize - just practical tools you can bring into your own dancing, regardless of style or experience.
 
Shari McDowell is an Iowa-based performer, instructor, and devoted student of Egyptian Raqs Sharqi dedicated to honoring the artistry, history, and cultural traditions of Egyptian dance. Her teaching emphasizes strong technique, musicality, authenitc movement, and expressive artistry while creating an inclusive environment where dancers of every age, size and experience can thrive.
 
Shari has studied directly with Mahmoud Reda, the founder of Egypt's first professional folkloric dance company, traveled throughout Egypt in pursuit of her studies, and continues to deepen her understanding through ongoing training with respected artists and master instructors. She is committed to helping dancers cultivate both technical skill and a deeper connection to the music, the movement, and the cultural traditions that make Egyptian dance such a rich and enduring art form.