A Middle Eastern Dance topics series, these mixed-level classes are designed to explore a different area of dance each week. You'll learn about the sources and contexts, steps and movement techniques, and variations to incorporate into your own belly dancing or inspire further exploration. All levels welcome. Mirah works to create a fun, supportive, equitable and creative environment.
Great value. This series is offered through Burnsville Community Education programming, which ensures a cost for the full three-week session that is significantly less than most comparable workshops are able to offer.
This course is offered in-person at a Burnsville location; any handouts and supplemental materials will be made available through an online portal--you can connect with Mirah for access.
This course is designed to be inclusive and accessible for dancers of all levels, backgrounds, ages, sizes, genders and physical capabilities who are interested in learning new facets aspects of SWANA dance, increasing/practicing their knowledge, and having the opportunity to ask questions or guidance.
Course Content:
Tuesday May 6 - Persian Technique for Belly Dance
Graceful arms, hands, and movements are essential in belly dance, and Persian dance is an excellent source! In this class you will learn key steps, techniques, and postures found in classical Persian dance (and reflective of Iranian folk dances). You'll explore facets of this form, enhancing your knowledge of the culture's art while also adapting graceful, effortless-looking flow for your Middle Eastern belly dancing.
Tuesday May 13 - Elegant Veil Dancing
Learn essential techniques, beautiful combinations, and musical interpretation skills for veilwork, including a short choreography. Some veils will be provided or bring your own 3-yard silk or chiffon fabric veil.
Tuesday May 20 - Lebanese Dance
Lebanese social dances and belly dance have unique rhythms, qualities, and significance. You’ll learn key elements of Lebanese dance--steps, techniques, and ideas that drive social dance in Lebanon and influence movement and stylization in Lebanese context.
Dates: May 6-20, 2026
Tuesdays 6:30-8:30 pm CDT
Diamondhead Education Center
Lower Level Dance Studio A
200 W Burnsville Parkway
Burnsville, MN 55337
(Park in the north/lower level lot off
Course Price: $40
Mirah Ammal has been dancing professionally for nearly 25 years, and continues to perform regularly as a soloist and as an artistic director. Her work has included being a regular featured dancer at restaurants in 3 different metro areas; conducting dancer auditions and talent scouting; producing full-feature shows and workshop events, as well as community showcases (haflas); arranging cultural presentations; directing dance troupes; and performing for scores of private events. Mirah brings a wealth of experience cultivating her own artistic work and vision, as well as navigating the pragmatic side of the dance: working with clients, navigating performance scenarios ranging from community events to private weddings and events, restaurants (including set up and scheduling with owners), and more. She understands the challenges that come with navigating the professional dance world, and complexities and decisions dancers may face when trying to decide if or how to build their dance businesses. Her goal with this course is to help give other dancers a boost as they navigate their own unique dance journeys.
Reach out to Mirah via email (mirah AT mirahammal DOT com) or through Facebook Messenger.
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