Belly Dance & Arabic Dance Classes in Columbia, SC
Discover the vibrant dance scene in Columbia. With 5 studios offering classes for all skill levels, compare local instructors, Raqs Sharqi styles, and tribal fusion programs to find your perfect fit.
🗺️ Studio Map View
💃 All Belly Dance & Arabic Dance Classes in Columbia
Zazzua Belly Dance Instruction - Northeast Columbia
Belly dance instruction with Wendellyn Ladapo, certified ATS® (FCBD®) instructor. Offering Oriental bellydance, ATS tribal style, and theatrical fusion classes.
Class Types
- ✓ Tribal Bellydance ATS® (FCBD®) Level 1
- ✓ Tribal Bellydance ATS® (FCBD®) Level 2/3
- ✓ Oriental Bellydance Level 1/2
- ✓ Live Drum African/Afro Caribbean Dance
- ✓ Theatrical Fusion Bellydance
- +1 more styles
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Certified ATS instruction
- • FatChanceBellydance Sister Studio
- • Low-cost classes starting at $5
Instructor:
Wendellyn Ladapo(Professional experience)
Certified ATS® (American Tribal Style belly dance®) (FCBD®) instructor and FatChanceBellydance Sister Studio® director.
Pricing & Options:
Starts at $5 per class
Contact Information
6729 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29223, United States
Columbia, SC 29223
Hours:
Tuesday 6:45-7:45 PM, Thursday 6:45-8:45 PM, Saturday 12:00-1:15 PM
Parking & Transportation
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The Circuit Fitness for Women
Fitness center offering belly dance classes since 1991. Providing individual and group instruction in a supportive environment.
Class Types
- ✓ Belly Dance Classes
- ✓ Individual Private Lessons
- ✓ Private Group Lessons
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Established since 1991
- • Individual instruction available
- • Private group lessons
Instructor:
Babs 'Noora' Flowers(30+ experience)
Experienced belly dance instructor teaching since 1991, offering individual and group instruction.
Pricing & Options:
$25-$30
Contact Information
Two Notch Rd., Columbia, SC, United States
Columbia, SC
Hours:
Contact for schedule
Parking & Transportation
Blue Oasis Yoga & Holistics Center
Wellness center offering belly dance classes alongside yoga, meditation, and holistic practices. Features certified ATS instructors.
Class Types
- ✓ Belly Dance
- ✓ African Dance
- ✓ Kemetic Yoga
- ✓ Meditation
- ✓ Private Consultation
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Holistic wellness approach
- • Multiple class offerings
- • Certified instructors
Instructor:
Various certified instructors(Professional experience)
Certified instructors specializing in various dance and wellness modalities.
Pricing & Options:
Contact for pricing
Contact Information
6729 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29223, United States
Columbia, SC 29223
Hours:
Contact for schedule
Parking & Transportation
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Tarifa Salem Eastern Dance Arts
Traditional Middle Eastern Dance instruction offering private sessions, group classes, and workshops. Specializing in Raqs Sharqi, Raqs Baladi, and TarifaFit cardio classes.
Class Types
- ✓ Private Raqs Sharqi/Raqs Baladi Sessions
- ✓ TarifaFit (Cardio)
- ✓ Adult Basic Ballet
- ✓ Mind/Body Movement Lab
- ✓ Online Private Study
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- 👤Private Lessons
- • Private studio space
- • Online instruction available
- • Traditional Middle Eastern dance focus
Instructor:
Tarifa Salem(Professional experience)
Professional Middle Eastern Dance instructor specializing in traditional Raqs Sharqi and Raqs Baladi styles.
Pricing & Options:
Contact for pricing
Contact Information
Columbia, SC, United States
Columbia, SC
Hours:
By appointment
Parking & Transportation
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University of South Carolina - Physical Activities Program
University course offering beginning belly dance instruction covering techniques, history, terminology, and dance combinations/choreography.
Class Types
- ✓ Beginning Belly Dance (PEDU 179)
Amenities & Features
- 🅿️Parking Available
- • Academic course credit
- • Beginning level focus
- • Historical and cultural education
Instructor:
University Instructors(Professional experience)
University instructors with expertise in dance education and Middle Eastern dance.
Pricing & Options:
University tuition
Contact Information
Columbia, SC, United States
Columbia, SC
Hours:
Contact University for schedule
Parking & Transportation
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How to Hire a Belly Dancer →💰 Estimated Costs in Columbia
| 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 Columbia 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 Lessons in Columbia, SC
With 5 verified studios, Columbia boasts an active and welcoming belly dance community. If you are looking to learn Tribal Bellydance ATS® (FCBD®) Level 1, Tribal Bellydance ATS® (FCBD®) Level 2/3 and Oriental Bellydance Level 1/2, local instructors at studios like Zazzua Belly Dance Instruction - Northeast Columbia and The Circuit Fitness for Women are currently accepting new students.
Classes are located conveniently in the 29223 area, making it easy to find a schedule that fits your life. From fun fitness routines to advanced choreography, the Columbia dance scene provides a supportive, body-positive environment for every skill level.
Serving Dancers in Columbia & Surrounding Areas
Our directory lists studios accessible to residents of Columbia 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.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Belly dance class prices in Columbia currently range from $5 to $25 per drop-in class across 5 local studios. Many offer package deals or monthly memberships that lower the per-class cost.
Columbia studios are concentrated around Downtown Columbia, Five Points, The Vista, making it easy to find a class close to home no matter where in SC you're commuting from.
Yes — 5 local studios in Columbia offer beginner-level classes designed for people with no prior dance experience.
Comfortable, form-fitting clothing you can move freely in — yoga pants or leggings with a fitted top work well. A hip scarf helps but isn't required for a first class.
Some studios in Columbia offer hybrid or online options alongside in-person classes — check individual studio listings above for details.
Keep Exploring
Check out our guides to help you go deeper.
🏙️ Find Belly Dance Classes Near Columbia
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Gear & Props
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Explore Guide →At-Home Practice
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Explore Guide →Articles & History
Learn about different styles, the history of the dance, and health benefits..
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