Belly Dance Classes in New Orleans, LA
Discover the vibrant belly dance scene in New Orleans. With 6 studios offering classes for all skill levels, you'll find traditional Middle Eastern styles, modern fusion, and tribal belly dance. Compare studios, explore different teaching styles, and find the perfect class to begin or continue your belly dance journey.
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💃 All Belly Dance Classes in New Orleans, LA & Surrounding Areas
All belly dance classes in your city (that we know about!)
Studio Shakti New Orleans
Dance studio and event rental venue located in the New Orleans Healing Center, specializing in belly dance with Karla Marie Shimmy Soul. Offers beginner through advanced belly dance training, yoga classes, sound healing, and private events. Performance-focused with regular showcases and troupe opportunities.
Class Types
- ✓ Pure Beginner Belly Dance
- ✓ Basic Technique & Conditioning
- ✓ Belly Dance Intensive (5-Week)
- ✓ Belly Dance Bootcamp
- ✓ Technique & Combos
- +5 more styles
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Located in New Orleans Healing Center
- • Performance Opportunities (August, November, April, June-July)
- • Shimmy Shakti Troupe Training
Instructor:
Karla Marie(Professional since 2005 experience)
Classically trained in ballet and jazz. Began belly dance studies in 2005 at MidEastern Dance Exchange in South Beach under Belly Dance Superstars Tamalyn Dallal and Bozenka. Studied with master instructors from Egypt, Lebanon, Spain, Russia, France, and worldwide.
Pricing & Options:
Drop-in $20, 3-week special $50, 5-week intensive $75-$90
Contact Information
2372 St. Claude Ave. Ste. 200, New Orleans, LA 70117, United States
New Orleans, LA 70117
Hours:
Classes Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat; Times vary by session (typically 6:00-8:30 PM weekdays, 11:00 AM-12:30 PM Saturdays)
Parking & Transportation
Rhythmic Arts Center
Creative hub offering variety of classes and workshops focused on music, dance, and visual arts. Hosts eclectic group of dancers and rhythm-related art forms including belly dance, swing, blues, and tango social dances. Welcoming space for all ages and skill levels.
Class Types
- ✓ Belly Dance
- ✓ Swing Dance
- ✓ Blues Dance
- ✓ Tango
- ✓ African Dance
- +4 more styles
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Hardwood Floors
- • Large Mirrors
- • Social Dance Events
Instructor:
Multiple Instructors(Professional experience)
Professional dance and arts instructors hosting diverse classes in a creative community space.
Pricing & Options:
Contact for pricing
Contact Information
2358 St. Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117, United States
New Orleans, LA 70117
Hours:
Tue: Blues 8pm, Thu: Tango 8pm, Fri: Swing 9pm; Class times vary - check schedule
Parking & Transportation
Crescent Lotus Dance Studio
Premier belly dance and adult dance studio offering daily classes in MENAHT/Middle Eastern Dance, burlesque, pole, salsa, bounce, hula hoop, and Dance Fusion. Serving New Orleans since 2007 with professional instruction in a body-positive environment. Available for private parties, bachelorette events, and studio rentals.
Class Types
- ✓ Belly Dance (MENAHT/Middle Eastern Dance)
- ✓ Burlesque
- ✓ Bounce Fitness
- ✓ Dance Fusion
- ✓ Hula Hoop Dance
- +5 more styles
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Bachelorette Party Packages
- • Private Event Space
- • Studio Rentals
Instructor:
Kryss, Pinky, Ariel, Multiple Professional Instructors(Professional since 2007 experience)
Professional dance instructors with expertise in belly dance, burlesque, and multiple dance forms. Staff provides body-positive, inclusive instruction for all skill levels.
Pricing & Options:
Drop-ins $20, 6-class card $72, Private parties $120+
Contact Information
3143 Calhoun St, New Orleans, LA 70125, United States
New Orleans, LA 70125
Hours:
Mon 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Tue-Thu 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Fri 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Sat-Sun 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Parking & Transportation
Dancing Grounds
Community dance studio building community through dance, developing young leaders, promoting health and wellness, and advocating for social justice. Offers adult dance classes, youth programs, and performance opportunities in a welcoming community environment.
Class Types
- ✓ Belly Dance (when scheduled)
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Hip Hop
- ✓ Line Dance
- ✓ Yoga
- +5 more styles
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Community-Focused Mission
- • Youth Leadership Programs
- • Social Justice Advocacy
Instructor:
Multiple Instructors(Professional experience)
Diverse team of professional dance instructors specializing in various dance forms and community-based dance education.
Pricing & Options:
Membership-based with discounts, contact for pricing
Contact Information
3705 St. Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117, United States
New Orleans, LA 70117
Hours:
Mon-Fri: Classes throughout day; Sat: Youth programs; Check schedule for specific class times
Parking & Transportation
New Orleans Athletic Club
Historic athletic club in the heart of New Orleans offering comprehensive fitness facilities and group classes. Features beginner belly dance classes focused on arm & hand formations, hip & chest circles, shimmies and turns. Full gym amenities with racquetball, boxing, swimming, yoga, and Pilates.
Class Types
- ✓ Belly Dance (Beginner)
- ✓ Iyengar Yoga
- ✓ Classic Yoga
- ✓ Zumba
- ✓ Argentine Tango
- +5 more styles
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Full Gym Facilities
- • Historic Club (Est. 1872)
- • Swimming Pool
Instructor:
Jen Ramos(Professional experience)
Professional fitness and dance instructor specializing in beginner belly dance, yoga, and group fitness classes.
Pricing & Options:
Membership-based (~$75/month single, ~$100/month couple + initiation fee)
Contact Information
222 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
New Orleans, LA 70112
Hours:
Mon-Fri: 5:30 AM - 9:00 PM, Sat-Sun: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Parking & Transportation
Shimmer Bellydance by Tamalyn Dallal
Professional belly dance instruction by Tamalyn Dallal, 'World Citizen' dancer with career beginning in 1976. Offers in-person classes at the New Orleans studio and online choreographies. Tamalyn studied with legends and teaches internationally, bringing authentic Middle Eastern dance to New Orleans.
Class Types
- ✓ Belly Dance (Classic Oriental)
- ✓ Middle Eastern Dance
- ✓ Online Choreographies
- ✓ Workshops
- ✓ Master Classes
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • International Experience
- • Online and In-Person Classes
- • Professional Training
Instructor:
Tamalyn Dallal(Professional since 1976 experience)
Began bellydance career in 1976, toured South America extensively. Studied with legendary dancers and taught worldwide. Directed MidEastern Dance Exchange in South Beach, founding member of Belly Dance Superstars. Known as a 'World Citizen' dancer representing authentic Middle Eastern dance.
Pricing & Options:
Contact for in-person pricing; Online choreographies $50-$250
Contact Information
3800 General Taylor St, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
New Orleans, LA 70112
Hours:
Contact for current class schedule
Parking & Transportation
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💰 Estimated Costs in New Orleans
| Drop-in Class | $15 - $25 |
| 5-Class Card | $65 - $100 |
| Monthly Unlimited | $120 - $180 |
| Private Lesson | $60 - $120/hr |
*Prices vary by studio prestige and location. Check individual listings for exact rates.
🔍 What to Expect in Your First Class
- 1
No experience needed.Most studios in New Orleans define "Beginner" as zero prior dance experience. You will learn posture and isolation from scratch.
- 2
Wear comfy clothes.You don't need a costume! Yoga pants, a fitted tank top, and bare feet (or socks) are the standard attire.
- 3
The "Shimmy" comes later.Your first class will focus on grounding your hips and isolating your chest. Don't worry if you can't shake perfectly on day one.
- 4
Bring water and an open mind.Belly dance is a workout! Stay hydrated and remember that everyone starts somewhere. The community is welcoming and supportive.
Common Belly Dance Styles
Not sure which class to pick? Here is a quick guide to the styles you might find in local studios.
Egyptian / Raqs Sharqi
The most classical form. Focuses on controlled muscle isolations, emotional expression, and intricate musicality. Elegant and grounded.
American Cabaret
A showy, glamorous style often performed with veils, zills (finger cymbals), or swords. High energy and uses more stage space.
Tribal Fusion
A modern western interpretation mixing hip-hop, flamenco, and popping/locking. Often danced to electronic music with darker costuming.
Fitness Belly Dance
Combines traditional belly dance movements with cardio and strength training. Great for beginners looking for a fun workout.
Turkish Oriental
Known for energetic floor work, dramatic drops, and playful audience interaction. More theatrical than Egyptian style.
Folkloric Styles
Regional dances from across the Middle East and North Africa, including Saidi, Khaliji, and Moroccan styles. Each has unique props and rhythms.
📌 Belly Dance in New Orleans, LA
New Orleans offers a diverse selection of belly dance studios catering to dancers of all levels. Whether you're interested in traditional Middle Eastern styles, modern fusion, or fitness-focused belly dance, you'll find experienced instructors and welcoming communities.
The belly dance scene in New Orleans is vibrant and inclusive, with regular performances, workshops, and community events. Many studios offer flexible class schedules, including evening and weekend options to accommodate busy lifestyles.
From your first shimmy to advanced choreography, New Orleans's belly dance studios provide supportive environments where you can learn, grow, and connect with fellow dance enthusiasts.
Serving Dancers in New Orleans & Surrounding Areas
Our directory lists studios accessible to residents of New Orleans as well as nearby areas. Many students travel from surrounding neighborhoods and ZIP codes.
📍 Neighborhoods
📮 ZIP Codes
Studios may serve multiple neighborhoods and ZIP codes. Check individual listings for exact locations and accessibility.