I Learned How To Belly Dance At The Anteater Recreation Center

Before the pandemic, I took a belly dancing class at the Anteater Recreation Center (or the ARC). I’ve never taken a dance class besides a beginner’s ballet class when I was in elementary school, so I was extremely nervous about signing up for a class. I always wanted to learn how to belly dance, or simply learn more about it, because of my Arab background. There are so many different types of regional styles of belly dancing so I’d thought taking an introductory class would be a great first decision for me to see what type of dance I would like. I’m so happy that I committed to the class for the entire quarter because it is one of my favorite memories of my time at UCI.

The ARC offers a variety of dance classes from contemporary, hip hop, ball dancing, to burlesque. Class times run during the evenings Monday through Friday, depending on the teacher. My belly dancing class ran for about an hour and half with my amazing instructor Lauren Manzano. In the class, students learned different Lebanese-style and other West Asian and Egyptian choreographies while listening to music from the region. We practiced how to move our hips without moving our entire body, pose with hand gestures for visual aesthetics, as well as be in rhythm to the fast-paced songs and instrumentals. 

Lauren is probably the most enthusiastic and kindest dance teacher I have ever had. She encouraged the students to feel confident in our bodies, and express ourselves however we feel most comfortable. She created such a fun and safe space for anyone who was nervous, like myself, and I am really grateful for her efforts in doing so. While there were a few students who were a bit shy, every student was really supportive and inclusive throughout this unique experience that was new for almost everyone. The space was so light hearted and I looked forward to going to class every week because I knew I would be able to laugh (while being slightly embarrassed) and to relieve some stress during a tough week.

All of the dance classes are open to all UCI students and ARC Members. The prices of the classes vary, but UCI students get a discount. You can register online with Visa and MasterCard via the UCI Campus Rec app, or at the Campus Recreation Services desk (2nd Floor) with Visa, MasterCard, check or cash. Early registration is highly recommended because all classes are processed on a first-come, first-served basis so they fill up super fast. All class fees must be paid prior to the first class meeting. If you feel like the class is not for you, you can request a refund after the first class. 

If you’re not interested in taking a dance class, the ARC offers recreational classes or workshops in sports, group fitness like yoga, martial arts, swimming, rock climbing, cooking, and CPR/AED & First Aid. Lauren also teaches the self defense classes that I hope to enroll in in the upcoming quarters. You can also register in discounted kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding sessions at Newport Beach, or other really cool local, outdoor adventures. I’m hoping to reserve a time to get a massage at the center too!

There is a class for everyone and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in learning a new skill, trying out new ways to be active, or hoping to meet students with similar interests. Make sure to actively check the ARC’s website for any announcements or updates regarding class times and rates as they might change without advance notice. 

I hope you have a memorable and fun time!