Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Classes with Kristi
What is the difference between cabaret and tribal?
Cabaret and Tribal are the two styles that I teach, although there are many more. Cabaret is a
more individual style of dance - I'll encourage you to express yourself and get creative with some of
the movements after you've mastered them. I love this style for it's freedom! The format of Tribal
that I teach is meant for groups - it's more structured and has a predetermined way to perform the
movements. I love this style for it's organization and ability to connect complete strangers in a
common goal. There are a lot of different styles of belly dance. I encourage you to seek out several
instructors to find the style that YOU will love!
What should I wear to class?
Dress comfortably in workout clothes that are not too tight or too loose. I will need to see your body
alignment so I can monitor your posture and see how you move. Wearing a scarf or hip belt around
your hips may also help you learn to feel the movements. If you wear a skirt, please wear fitted
pants or shorts underneath so I can see your knees and legs as well. I encourage all of my
students to dress up for class if you'd like to - so wear those skirts, choli's, and all your fun jewelry!
Note: Other instructors may ask you to wear or not wear specific items. If you take another
instructor's class, check with them on what's appropriate or required.
Do I have to show my belly?
Absolutely not! You will never be required to show your belly in my class! I may ask you to show me
your belly when we're working on specific techniques like belly rolls or flutters, but you are always
welcome to decline that request. I strongly believe that your comfort level is a contributing factor to
how quickly you will learn.
What do I wear on my feet?
I encourage you to dance barefoot, being able to feel the floor beneath you will help you learn how
to place your feet properly. If you're not comfortable going barefoot, ask me for recommendations
on where to order inexpensive dance slippers.
What should I bring to class?
Always bring water, no matter what the temperature is outside we will get warm! Also bring along a
notebook and something to write with - I'll give you lots of little tips and instructions that you'll want
to take home and practice to remember what we've learned. Also bring along a veil and zills if you
have them. Although they're not required and we won't always use them, a true belly dancer
wouldn't want to be without them :)
I'm a complete beginner! Do I need to have previous experience with dance?
No, all classes unless otherwise noted are designed specifically for beginners. So no previous
experience with belly dance or any other format of dance is necessary. My approach to teaching is
very step-by-step, so anyone can follow along. Ask me about my own beginner story, or check out
the "About Kristi" page here on my website.
I've had a few children, gained some weight, lost my flexibility, etc. Will I be able to do it?
The beautiful thing about belly dance is that anyone can do it, regardless of any body issues,
injuries, illnesses, overweight, underweight, etc.! You do not need to have the "perfect dancer's
body". The movements are natural to a female form, and we're not going to push you beyond your
physical limits. It may not be easy at first, and what you do may not look exactly like me or anyone
else in class, but you can do this and it will get easier!
Will I need to learn a choreography?
Neither of the styles of belly dance that I teach require or promote learning a choreography and I
will not generally teach one as part of a class unless it's requested. While I love choreography and
recognize there are some great things it can accomplish, I want to teach you to dance without one
so you can dance wherever you go, to any music that is playing. However, all of the techniques that
I teach could be used in a choreography if that's what you're comfortable with, and I am happy to
help individuals or groups create one!
Do I have to perform in front of people?
This is a really common fear! No, you will never be required to perform. At some point, I may offer
classes specifically for a performance group, but participation will be voluntary and you'll never be
pressured to join.
I'm pregnant. Can I still belly dance?
Yes, belly dance is a great exercise for pregnancy! You'll strengthen all of the muscles you'll need
to support your growing baby, labor, and delivery. You MUST consult with your doctor first however
to ensure that there are no complications which would suggest avoiding physical activity. Also be
sure to let me know at the very beginning of class that you're expecting.
Are men allowed in class?
Please note I do not allow significant others or other males to observe a class. The safety and
comfort of my students is absolutely my first priority. If a man shows serious interest in learning belly
dance, I may allow him to attend a class after much discussion to prove sincerity. My female
students will always be notified in advance. I welcome and encourage male dancers!
Do you have another question about classes that you don't see answered here?
Please call me or email me! I'd love to hear from you and I may just give you a reward for helping
me improve my site :) Click here for contact information.
What is the difference between cabaret and tribal?
Cabaret and Tribal are the two styles that I teach, although there are many more. Cabaret is a
more individual style of dance - I'll encourage you to express yourself and get creative with some of
the movements after you've mastered them. I love this style for it's freedom! The format of Tribal
that I teach is meant for groups - it's more structured and has a predetermined way to perform the
movements. I love this style for it's organization and ability to connect complete strangers in a
common goal. There are a lot of different styles of belly dance. I encourage you to seek out several
instructors to find the style that YOU will love!
What should I wear to class?
Dress comfortably in workout clothes that are not too tight or too loose. I will need to see your body
alignment so I can monitor your posture and see how you move. Wearing a scarf or hip belt around
your hips may also help you learn to feel the movements. If you wear a skirt, please wear fitted
pants or shorts underneath so I can see your knees and legs as well. I encourage all of my
students to dress up for class if you'd like to - so wear those skirts, choli's, and all your fun jewelry!
Note: Other instructors may ask you to wear or not wear specific items. If you take another
instructor's class, check with them on what's appropriate or required.
Do I have to show my belly?
Absolutely not! You will never be required to show your belly in my class! I may ask you to show me
your belly when we're working on specific techniques like belly rolls or flutters, but you are always
welcome to decline that request. I strongly believe that your comfort level is a contributing factor to
how quickly you will learn.
What do I wear on my feet?
I encourage you to dance barefoot, being able to feel the floor beneath you will help you learn how
to place your feet properly. If you're not comfortable going barefoot, ask me for recommendations
on where to order inexpensive dance slippers.
What should I bring to class?
Always bring water, no matter what the temperature is outside we will get warm! Also bring along a
notebook and something to write with - I'll give you lots of little tips and instructions that you'll want
to take home and practice to remember what we've learned. Also bring along a veil and zills if you
have them. Although they're not required and we won't always use them, a true belly dancer
wouldn't want to be without them :)
I'm a complete beginner! Do I need to have previous experience with dance?
No, all classes unless otherwise noted are designed specifically for beginners. So no previous
experience with belly dance or any other format of dance is necessary. My approach to teaching is
very step-by-step, so anyone can follow along. Ask me about my own beginner story, or check out
the "About Kristi" page here on my website.
I've had a few children, gained some weight, lost my flexibility, etc. Will I be able to do it?
The beautiful thing about belly dance is that anyone can do it, regardless of any body issues,
injuries, illnesses, overweight, underweight, etc.! You do not need to have the "perfect dancer's
body". The movements are natural to a female form, and we're not going to push you beyond your
physical limits. It may not be easy at first, and what you do may not look exactly like me or anyone
else in class, but you can do this and it will get easier!
Will I need to learn a choreography?
Neither of the styles of belly dance that I teach require or promote learning a choreography and I
will not generally teach one as part of a class unless it's requested. While I love choreography and
recognize there are some great things it can accomplish, I want to teach you to dance without one
so you can dance wherever you go, to any music that is playing. However, all of the techniques that
I teach could be used in a choreography if that's what you're comfortable with, and I am happy to
help individuals or groups create one!
Do I have to perform in front of people?
This is a really common fear! No, you will never be required to perform. At some point, I may offer
classes specifically for a performance group, but participation will be voluntary and you'll never be
pressured to join.
I'm pregnant. Can I still belly dance?
Yes, belly dance is a great exercise for pregnancy! You'll strengthen all of the muscles you'll need
to support your growing baby, labor, and delivery. You MUST consult with your doctor first however
to ensure that there are no complications which would suggest avoiding physical activity. Also be
sure to let me know at the very beginning of class that you're expecting.
Are men allowed in class?
Please note I do not allow significant others or other males to observe a class. The safety and
comfort of my students is absolutely my first priority. If a man shows serious interest in learning belly
dance, I may allow him to attend a class after much discussion to prove sincerity. My female
students will always be notified in advance. I welcome and encourage male dancers!
Do you have another question about classes that you don't see answered here?
Please call me or email me! I'd love to hear from you and I may just give you a reward for helping
me improve my site :) Click here for contact information.
| Kristi Krueger kristi@kristikrueger.com (920) 946-5994 Belly dance (aka Middle Eastern dance) instructor / teacher and performer in the Sheboygan, WI and surrounding areas Home I About Kristi I Classes & Workshops I Book a Performance I Events I Student Resources I FAQ I Gallery I Troupe I Merchandise/Apparel I Contact Kristi Design and all contents of this website ©2011 Kristi Krueger. All Rights Reserved. Images and content of this site cannot be reproduced or copied without permission.II |