Belly Dance from LSC

Belly dance, or Middle Eastern dance, can be freeing says Elizabeth Bergman, who is a lover and teacher of this type of dance.

Bergman, who graduated last May, learned this genre of dance at LSC about two and a half years ago. Middle Eastern dance was once offered as a mini-course which she took.

"I always looked forward to it and always felt great after -- physically and emotionally, I couldn't stop smiling." Bergman said. "I was hooked right then. I felt free, sensual and empowered with Middle Eastern dance."

Belly Dance and Middle Eastern dance are identical as far as the techniques are concerned, but Bergman calls what she does Middle Eastern dance. The only difference is the intent. Belly dance is considered to be more for performing and aimed towards an audience, while Middle Eastern dance is traditional and done more for the dancer's own pleasure. It is a very sensual type of dance with lots of shimmying and shaking that can be done equally well solo or in groups.

"I just enjoy the dancing and it still makes me feel wonderful," Bergman said. She has performed on multiple occasions, one of those times being for the LSC talent show. The other three performances were at various festivals.

Right now she is mostly just trying to learn more about this type of dance, and she encourages others to do the same. She is teaching beginner classes where she teaches the basic movements and techniques of Middle Eastern dance. "I hope to be able to show the students the joys of dance, hope that they discover the confidence that can come with it." The classes tend to run on the small side (from two to eight people) and there is no age requirement to attend.

It is a drop-in class, so it is not necessary to sign up beforehand, though by signing up for four classes, there is a discounted price, along with a registration fee for the first time this is done. A single class costs $10. Classes are held from 6:00-7:00 Friday nights at Dance Images by Heidi, on 173 York Street in Lyndonville. For any more information, Bergman can be contacted at e.bergman83@gmail.com.