Flamenco Artist and Dancer Javier Heredia coming to Pera Dance August 2011

Flamenco Dance originated in India believe it or not. What we see today is a mix of a long trail of history as the warriors of Rajasthan fought off their would be permanent invaders into modern day Iran. As they began to roam and encounter trouble they found themselves in Egypt. While there life was not easy. Why they did not go back to Rajasthan is unknown. But some say this was the turning point in early Rroma history. These great warriors and now roaming global citizens split into two paths. Some going north toward modern day Romania, Hungary, Croatia and others heading west through North Africa (Libya, Sudan, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco...and eventually to Spain). What they developped along the way was a strong, vibrant history that gave us Flamenco as we know it today.

Looking at Kathak dance in its original form you will find the ground work for Flamenco. The touching of the skirts, flowers in one's hair and more are not all documented on the early path of the Rroma but their culture and customs have been preserved within their own societies. Great dancers such as Carmen Amaya and her family have kept this going. Movies like Latcho Drum show the blessings that Rroma (Gypsy) culture has given us...and inspire us as dancers to drop that harmful term "Gypsy" which was used in a derogatory way toward this strong group to call them as they want to be...Man, Rrom, The Rroma.

This summer Pera Dance is proud to have the wonderful and talented Javier Heredia in a Flamenco dance workshop. He accompanies Atlanta Flamenco dancer Rebecca Lutz (seen often with the renowned Aire Flamenco at Fanoos Persian Restaurant) for a spectacular afternoon of learning the essence and artistry of Flamenco. Its a cultural dance that has been passed down from generation to generation. Learn from this 3rd generation Rroma artist and dancer direct from Spain.
*picture from Javier featured with Aire Flamenco at Fanoos -spectacular show, see review on Raqs Atlanta Website

Flamenco Puro and Flamenco Roots
with Javier Heredia
August 2011, contact Rebecca Lutz to get specific date
2pm-4pm
Location: Pera Dance Studio Atlanta
1015 Collier Rd Atlanta GA 30318
send $60 paypal to amorylutz@gmail.com
For more information: 404.514.8401

Bellydance Summer Session begins 5 July!

Come workout, dance and get in shape with us every week at Pera Dance! Our next Beginner and Intermediate Bellydance Class Summer Session featuring choreography, performance opportunities and more will be 5-29 July 2011. You must pre-register in advance for this class to participate. Class Cards for this 8 week course are only $25. You get two classes a week! Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm at our home studio.

Buy your class card today! Use the paypal button below!:)

Bellydance Summer Session (2 classes a week) $15 ($25 after the 26th)
Pera Dance Studio Atlanta
1015 B Collier Rd Atlanta 30318
404.355.0807

Bellydance Prop Focus Series: Candle Dance/Fire Tray Dance/Tea Candles

This Saturday!! Enjoy Bellydance Workshop for Fire Dance using Candles! This is an excellent class for those who want to work in restaurants, learn the tips and tricks used by bellydancers worldwide and add extra pizazz to their shows.

This is a prop focus workshop for Fire Dance using Candles. Learn how to dance with two candles, three candles, tray balancing, fire safety, and MORE! We will also spend some time discussing safety and use of other fire toys such as Fire Fans and Fire Scimitar.

Pre-Registration is now available online: http://www.zainaraqs.com/Home_Page.html#Isis_Workshop

Please bring your own candles and trays! If you need information on where to purchase your supplies email zainaraqs@yahoo.com 

*Candles will remain unlit in studio but will be lit outside for final demonstration.

Enjoy this video of candle dancing! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLO1H_SVWw8

The Dance Market at Pera Dance Studio Atlanta 11 June 3pm-6pm

Enjoy an afternoon of dancing and shopping at the Dance Market. Buy, swap, sell dance items and fun international goods all while learning a few moves from Pera Dance instructors and others in the Atlanta Dance area. Sign up to reserve your space today. All participants are required to bring their own table. Space is limited and only one table per person. Performers will be allowed to do 1-2 sets each. Troupes are allowed one dance number. The studio has a great sound system so bring your music (or bring a musician) and show us what you've got. We welcome all styles and genre of Raqs and other dances.

Dance Market at Pera Dance
1015 Collier Rd Atlanta GA 30318
3pm-6pm
$10 to sell items
$5 for guests and visitors
(big zumba party to follow immediately after)

*Love our studio and want to teach your students there? Let us know by emailing PeraDanceStudio@gmail.com

Pera Dance Studio is great because...

Our studio's instructors are some of the best! Well trained and stars of their craft! The studio doesn't pick just anyone to be lead a team of eager dancers and fitness fans. We keep an eye out for the creme de la creme and those who truly enjoy being active, positive and healthy...in mind, body and spirit.

We also welcome teachers who like to hold events. Working closely with show sponsors, entertainers and others; we are able to provide cultural entertainment to Atlanta. For those who wish to rent the space just send inquiries to peradancestudio@gmail.com to reserve your weekend evening. Friday-Sunday are the more popular days so feel free to stop by for a tour and book your weekend event.

Because dancers and fitness fanatics like to look good the studio keeps  a fashionable stash of costumes and fitness wear on hand. You can buy it on site and those attending the weekend sponsored events get  a discount of 10% on every purchase.

Pera Dance Studio is the home of world dance and global movement in Atlanta. We welcome everyone to partake. We want you to feel welcome and right at home. Our volunteers are multi-cultured, multilingual and have served the international community for over 15 years. There are language lessons for those interested in cultured communication and we also have private dance lessons in folk dance for those who enjoy going further in their global studies. For more information contact us! or call 404.355.0807 We look forward to dancing with you!!

KICK IT UP A NOTCH! w/Turbo Kick at Pera Dance Studio

Turbo Kick is ready for you! This energetic class is perfect for those who wish to really burn calories and shed extra or unwanted weight. As our pal MaShelle says: "You can have RESULTS or EXCUSES but not BOTH!" I went from a Size 12 to a 4 in five months working out at home with Beachbody fitness programs & Shakeology. I can help you get fit too!" www.CoachMaShelleEpps.com






And oohhh what a gorgeous young woman she is...FIT, FINE AND FANTASTIC!!

Stop by Pera Dance every Wednesday for this action packed, supercharged calorie burner that actually works! Couple this class along with Zumba and you've already met half the recommended workout routine all on the same day!

Pera Dance encourages you to get into the Jiggle Free Zone! Join us!

Turbo Kick
6:30pm-7:30pm
Pera Dance Studio
1015 Collier Rd Atlanta 30318

Hoop is so Happening!!! & One of the top fitness trends! Join in!

Our awesome, multitalented and ohhhh so fine Rebecca DeShon teaches Hoopdance every Saturday here at Pera Dance. We're delighted to share with you her thoughts on this fun, effective and fantastic dance art.

Through hoop dance I have found a calming centering meditation which helps me release the negative energy and make space for prosperity and bliss. Hoop dance builds core strength, tones your entire body, provides an intense cardio workout, increases energy, develops balance and coordination, increases flexibility, clears and quiets the mind, reduces stress, improves self confidence, generates joy and laughter, improves one’s mood, and opens up creative self expression.  After spending time in your hoop will find yourself more joyful with a lot less stress! Hooping is beautiful, transforming and mesmerizing ...you just may find yourself hooked!!! Your hoop is a useful tool for fun, fitness, meditation or playful sensuality! The possibilities are endless for body, mind and spirit to reconnect in the infinite circle.

Hula hooping has changed my life in so many ways. I never thought it could ever have such a profound impact on my life! It went from something I once perceived as a gimmick to a true healthy obsession in my life! It has lifted me out of the depths of self loathing depression by opening up my heart and mind to creative self expression! The hoop is such a soothing rhythm, it quickly turned into my ‘moving meditation’. it helps to center my energy and gives me time to clear my head and focus my energy.

I began hooping in the summer of 2008 and through constant practice and effort, acquired my Hoopnotica Certified Teacher certificate in the late fall of that year. I had been teaching and performing in NY until home called me back to Atlanta in the winter of 2009. My life hasn’t been the same since; I want to share the beauty I have found in hoop dance with everyone I meet.

Join this fun fitness movement every Saturday 11am

HoopDance with Rebecca DeShon
1015 Collier Rd Atlanta GA 30318
Atlanta GA 30318
404.355.0807