Upcoming events.
Migrations 2026
John Compton: History, Choreography, and Culture
SATURDAY Jan. 31, 9-11a
This hybrid class will start with an overview of the work of John Compton, a legendary figure in the history of belly dance. After our discussion, we will spend the rest of class learning combos with John’s signature stylization and exploring what made him unique.
Art of The Belly 2026
Sagatcha! Multi-Tonal Finger Cymbal Method
FRIDAY March 27, 10:45a-12:45p
“Multi-tonal technique” is a finger cymbal method that accompanies Middle Eastern music in a euphonious way that feels as good as it sounds. Explore a variety of common rhythms found in belly dance music and learn some clever combos to bring out their true spirit. It is recommended that dancers bring finger cymbals that are at least 2” in diameter.
Old School, New School
FRIDAY March 27, 2:45-4:45p
It’s a throwback! Delve into the world of old school West Coast fusion with influences from Jamila Salimpour, Bal Anat, John Compton, Hahbi’Ru, and more. This workshop is perfectly suited for anyone wanting to reconnect with their fusion heritage, or for those seeking out some vintage nostalgia.
Fragile Like a Bomb
SUNDAY March 29, 9:30-11:30a
Dynamism and contrast are essential to creating visual texture in a performance. Using a variety of combinations, this workshop explores the juxtaposition of sinuous, grounded belly dance technique with explosive, high-impact movement qualities.
Shimmy on the Colorado
Shimmy on the Colorado: October 10 – 12
Cave Goblin Fusion
Friday October 10, 10a - 2p
Known for his propensity for moving like a cave goblin who learned to belly dance, Drake teaches the fundamentals of his unique “cave goblin” grunge style of fusion. This class will explore counterintuitive movement pathways, creative floorwork, and body conditioning to unlock the goblin within. Knee pads optional.
Old School Flavor, New School Seasoning
Saturday October 11, 12:30p - 2:30p
It’s a throwback! Delve into the world of old school West Coast fusion with influences from Jamila Salimpour, Bal Anat, John Compton, Hahbi’Ru, and more. This workshop is perfectly suited for anyone wanting to reconnect with their fusion heritage, or for those seeking out some vintage nostalgia.
Bayou Belly Festivale
Bayou Belly Festival: July 18 – 20
Old School Flavor, New School Seasoning
Friday July 18, 1:00p - 2:45p
It’s a throwback! Delve into the world of old school West Coast fusion with influences from Jamila Salimpour, Bal Anat, John Compton, Hahbi’Ru, and more. This workshop is perfectly suited for anyone wanting to reconnect with their fusion heritage, or for those seeking out some vintage nostalgia.
Sagat-cha! Multi-Tonal Finger Cymbal Technique & Combos
Saturday July 20, 3p - 4:45p
“Multi-tonal technique” is a finger cymbal technique that accompanies Middle Eastern music in a euphonious way that feels as good as it sounds. It is recommended that dancers bring LARGE finger cymbals that are at least 2.5–3” in diameter.
Cave Goblin Fusion
Sunday July 20, 11a - 12:45p
Known for his propensity for moving like a cave goblin who learned to belly dance, Drake teaches the fundamentals of his unique “cave goblin” grunge style of fusion. This class will explore counterintuitive movement pathways, creative floorwork, and body conditioning to unlock the goblin within. Knee pads optional.
Be Tribal 2024
Take my workshops:
Friday 11/22
2p – 4p: “Cave Goblin Fusion”: Known for his propensity for moving like a cave goblin who learned to belly dance, Drake teaches the fundamentals of his unique “cave goblin” grunge style of fusion. This class will explore counterintuitive movement pathways, creative floorwork, and body conditioning to unlock the goblin within.
4p – 6p: “Sagat-cha! Multi-Tonal Finger Cymbal Technique and Fusion Combos”: “Multi-tonal technique” is a finger cymbal technique that accompanies Middle Eastern music in a euphonious way that feels as good as it sounds. It is recommended that dancers bring LARGE finger cymbals that are at least 2.5–3” in diameter.
Saturday 11/23
3 – 5p: “Muscle Micromanagement: Layering Praxis”: This class will help students refine their mind-body awareness to create complex, complimentary layered movements. We will explore muscle cueing and resistance-assisted techniques, so resistance bands or something comparable are recommended.
5 – 7p: “Stage Presence Clinic”: In this workshop, we explore how to reconcile with inner conflicts to be our most authentic and vulnerable onstage. Movement and intellectual exercises will be led to help identify sources of presence, develop a relationship with the audience, and practice self-forgiveness.
World of Orient: Hannover, Germany
World of Orient
May 3–5, Hanover, Germany
May 3, 11hr – 15hr: John Compton: History, Combos, and Culture
This hybrid class will start with an overview of the work of John Compton, a legendary figure in the history of belly dance. After our discussion, we will spend the rest of class learning combos with John’s signature stylization and exploring what made him unique.
May 4, 10hr – 12hr: Serpentine Fury
Dynamism and contrast are essential to creating visual texture in a performance. Using a variety of combinations, this workshop explores the juxtaposition of sinuous, grounded belly dance technique with explosive, high-impact movement qualities.
May 5, 10hr – 12hr: Muscle Micromanagement - Layering & Isolation
This class will help students refine their mind-body awareness to create complex, complimentary layered movements. We will explore muscle cueing and resistance-assisted techniques, so resistance bands or something comparable are recommended.