Testimonials

"I’d like to say thank you SO much for a wonderful “Wings of Isis & Veil” workshop! I had a SUPERB time! I liked how you first split the workshop up into the section of solely mastering specific veil and wings techniques, and only afterwards we got to put the techniques together with the choreography. By the way, I have to say that the choreography was absolutely AMAZING!!! Overall the workshop was very informative, interactive, fun and inspiring! Keep it up!"

- Aida Mustacich

"You are so wonderful, and I truly want to have the opportunity to have a class with you again - sooner than later. I have been drawn to "wings" for quite some time, and my first time ever wearing a pair was at your workshop! I hope you have another workshop or class that I can attend!"

- Sara Sorensen

"I want to tell you how much I enjoyed the workshop and the dance choreography was so beautiful....we have to practice it soon before so we don't forget it. Cris, you danced so beautifully at Soho. I always love watching you!"

- Denise Berdan

"Thank YOU for teaching our class! You're an excellent teacher and you provided such great support and inspiration!"

- Coni Edick

The BellyDance Land of Cris! Basimah on Facebook

New Classes starting October 6!

Cris Basimah! Belly Dance Teacher Come explore the beautiful world of middle eastern dance in a fun, supportive, and relaxed environment!

Upcoming Classes:
Wednesdays, October 6 - December 1, 2010

Beginner class: 5:45 - 6:45 pm

Intermediate Level: 7 - 8 pm

This class requires previous experience in veil, finger cymbals, drum solo and taqsim. More information will be posted soon.

Class Location

Gustafson Dance Studio (Gail Towbes Center for Dance building. Free parking) - see map
2285 Las Positas Road
Santa Barbara, California 93105

Fee and Registration

Take advantage of the early-bird enrollment and register by September 24 to get a free class!

To register in advance, mail your check to:
Cris Dixon
PO Box 14344
Santa Barbara, CA 93107
and inform which class you will take.

8-week session - $96 (when you register by September 24)
8-week session - $110 (when you register after September 24)
4-class session - $65
Drop-in - $20/class
Payment by cash or check.

All fees are non-refundable. Exceptions may be made by instructor under extraordinary circumstances at instructor discretion.

What to wear

First, a smile! You're supposed to have fun in class. Wear comfortable clothes that are not too loose so you can see the moves on your body: workout or yoga pants, a tank top, tee-shirt or a leotard, and a hip scarf for your hips. Coin hip scarves will be available for purchase in class.

Most dancers enjoy dancing barefoot. But for those who wish to wear foot covering, I suggest soft-soled dance shoes like ballet slippers and jazz shoes (Hermes sandals is also an option).

Liability Release

New students are required to fill out and sign an agreement and release from liability before they start taking classes (minors must have form signed by parent/guardian). If you'd like to fill out this form before coming to class (saves time!), just click on the following links to download the form: Microsoft Word or PDF.

For more information, e-mail Cris! Basimah at cris @ bellydanceland.com (just remove the spaces around @ ) or call (805) 685-0058.

Workshops and Classes with Cris!

Upcoming Workshops

Saidi - Raks Assaya (cane) workshop (#5)

We will explore the contagious and fun rhythm Saidi while learning a modern and sassy Raks Assaya choreography. We will also learn folkloric moves and steps which are characteristic of this Upper Egypt dance style. This class will teach you how to work with the assa (cane), including balancing it on your head. Bring a headband and a cane or purchase one at the workshop.

When: Friday August 27, 2010 :: 3:15 - 5:15 PM

Where:Goleta Valley Community Center, Room # 8
5679 Hollister Ave. Goleta, CA 93117 (see map)

Fee and How to Register
$50/each - discount offered for 4+ people. Please register by Wednesday, August 25^th. Visit Alexandra King's Moon over Morocco Festival to register and select workshop #5.

Cris! is booking for 2010. Other workshop styles (Wings of Isis, Veil, Drum Solo, Taksim, etc.) also available. Please contact her at cris @ bellydanceland.com (just remove the spaces around @ ) or 805-685-0058 to present this workshop at your event.