Aren fell in love with belly dancing when she took her first class in
1992. She began performing in 1994, teaching in 1996, and co-founded
the troupe Belly Dance Mirage in 1998. She has studied Middle Eastern
dance with a variety of world renowned artists including Sahra, Cashti,
Morocco, Suhaili, and Nourhan. Aren holds two advanced degrees
including a Masters in Teaching from Washington University.
Comments from Past Students
"Aren is absolutely wonderful!
She does a great job of explaining things (this was my first time) and
makes everything fun. She makes everyone feel so comfortable and does a
good job of making suggestions without putting anyone down. I can't
imagine anyone walking away from the class not feeling wonderful!"
"Aren you really are a fabulous teacher and I really have enjoyed coming."
"Aren
is an awesome teacher, especially for a beginner. She is patient and
very approachable. I attend other classes and she is the best to learn
from."
"Aren is a wonderful teacher and a really nice person to know."
Classes She Instructs
Beginning Belly Dancing
Middle Eastern Dance is an exciting low
impact workout perfect for women of all ages, all sizes, and all
abilities. You'll tone your abdominal muscles with belly rolls. You'll
strengthen your leg muscles and gluts with shimmies. Your teacher will
patiently describe and demonstrate the basic moves of the dance for
beginners. She will provide additional challenges for returning
students. Our classroom is a supportive environment in which
embarrassment and competition have no place. Please wear stretchy or
loose clothing. You do not have to show your belly (unless you want
to). Many students find that wearing a scarf around their hips helps
define their movements.
