Please take a moment to read our Terms and Conditions.

Why choose Amera's Palace?
Our centre is the leader in Dance and Movement because we:

• Teach all styles of Middle Eastern Dance and Beyond
  
• Have been the Belly Dance Business since 1987 and were the first outlet for Belly Dance in the Southern Hemisphere!
  
• Have some of the most experienced teachers in Sydney
  
• Cater for all levels of experience
  
• Offer day and evening classes
  

How do I join the classes at Amera's Palace?
Classes are run in terms and pre-paid bookings are essential. There may be some casual spots available, however, you do have to call or email each week to secure a place in a class; if there are spots available. To reserve your place in any of our classes, you can buy your class pass online. Casual bookings are best made via the contact page. If you have an enquiry regarding our classes, please contact us via email or by phone 9519 4793. Contact Amera's Palace and we will assist you in choosing a class suitable for you.

What is the class pass structure?
Gold Class Pass - 40 class pass $620
Silver Class Pass - 20 class pass $320
Pink Class Pass - 10 class pass $165 (OUR MOST POPULAR PASS!)
White Class Pass - 5 Class pass $85
Casual - $19.50 per class

Why Oriental Dance?
Oriental Dance, or Belly dance as most of you will know it as, is an ancient dance form that today is taught and practiced for many different reasons:

• Bellydance is a great way to get fit. Suitable for any age, shape and fitness level, it is a great activity to assist in toning and strengthening the entire body. You will gradually see your body change shape and if you practice regularly and eat the correct foods, you can even lose weight. Belly dance is the fun way to get fit!
  
• Bellydance is a great way for you to meet new people. In the relaxed atmosphere of our classes you can escape the daily grind and laugh, exercise and socialise all in one go!
  
• Bellydance will make you realise that your body is beautiful no matter what shape or size you are. It is a women's dance created by women for women.
  
• Bellydance has its roots in the Middle East and surrounding areas. Today it is still traditional to have a dancer perform at weddings, christenings and birthdays. (Note that it's a long road to becoming a professional!)
  
  

What will I learn in class?
Classes are designed to be technically, physically, mentally and creatively challenging but fun of course! By the end of a 10 week term you will have been taught various Belly dance techniques and how to listen and move to the music. In the more advanced classes, you will learn how to use props such as zills (finger cymbals), veil and stick.

• Beginners classes you will be taught basic technique, basic travelling steps, how to turn, basic interpretation of the music and some basic choreographies.
  
• Beyond Beginners classes you will be taught how to layer and refine your movements, more travelling steps, how to use certain props, music interpretation, improvisation and more challenging choreographies.
  
• Intermediate classes you are expected to have almost perfect technique. You will learn harder choreographies, use props, music interpretation and improvisation.
  
• Advanced class - it is designed for students that have experienced all the above and would like to be challenged. If you are uncertain whether you should move up to Advanced, please check with your teacher.
  
• Egyptian Folkoric Class you will learn to add texture and richness to your bellydancing! Introduction to Egyptian Folkloric Dance will familiarise you with 2-3 styles of dance each term. You will learn how to vary familiar bellydance moves stylistically from earthy and grounded to elegant and balletic. The focus is on understanding the fundamental moves and appropriate nuances of each style, making use of footwork, combinations and short choreographies. You will also learn about the style’s cultural background and history, music and costuming, adding to your understanding of the origins.
  
• Tribal Style Bellydance Technique class you will learn the basis of tribal styled bellydance based on The Fat Chance Bellydance technique, including posture, arms, hip dexterity and basic combos, transitions and improvisation.
  
• ZUMBA®! is a new wave of fitness! The Zumba® program fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will blow you away. Our goal is simple: We want you to want to work out, to love working out, to get hooked. Zumba® Fanatics achieve long-term benefits while experiencing an absolute blast in one exciting 45 minutes of calorie-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage and captivate for life!
  
  

What should I wear to class?
Students should wear leggings and a close fitting or sleeveless top so that the arms can be seen. Hip shawls/scarves are useful but not necessary. Please have hair tidy. Please bring zills and water. Comfortable clothing; dance pants, fitted track pants, leggings, shorts, fitted t-shirts, tank tops, leotards, flat ballet shoes, jazz shoes, jiffies, socks. If you are partaking in Zumba or Bellyrobics, please were shoes with a light tread ( no socks or bare feet). If you have something to tie around your hips, bring that along too. (Please don't wear jeans) dresses or skirts. Our teachers need to be able to see what you are doing to ensure correct technique Classes are open to women, men and children over the age 12. Age is no limit.

Can I join a class if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant or have any physical challenges, please ask for your doctor or obstetrician's advice before enrolling in this course or any other courses in our timetable.

What will happen if I miss a class?
Class passes are valid only for the term you have enrolled in. They cannot be used for any other term unless you have medical documents stating why you have not been able to attend class during the term. If you miss a class during the term you may participate in a make up class during that term however, you must ring ahead to check if there are any places available in your chosen class. Class Passes can only be used for the dates mentioned on the pass. They can only be used at the venue of purchase.

Remember, just because you have a dance background or have been brought up with the music, doesn't mean you will find the technique any easier than anyone else. Oriental Dance is a dance form in its own right and is challenging.

Final note
Please be on time to class. Not only is it a courtesy for your fellow classmates and your teacher, it also means that you can warm up. Preparing the body (warming up) is crucial to resist the risk of injury, so please do your best to be on time. Ring ahead if you think you may be late. Some classes run back to back, we will endeavour however, to give you your full hour or class time as advertised.