Holistic Belly-Dancing Studio Shakes into Downtown

With gypsy and tribal-style belly dancing and holistic approaches, a new dance studio in downtown New Baltimore is shaking away from the norm.

Czigany's Oasis Dance & Fitness opened Monday on Washington Street in the former Head 'N Hair salon building. Owner Krisztina Clark of Chesterfield Township said she was inspired to launch her own studio after years of studying belly dance and teaching classes throughout the area, including through L’Anse Creuse Community Education.

“I like the area. I like the feel of it," Clark said. "It’s got a small-town feel...but it’s very inviting and I really love the historical buildings.”

She said she had been looking for years for a perfect place to set up her business, which offers belly dance, yoga, zumba and other classes. The studio staff will focus on holistic approaches, such as teaching stress-reducing breathing techniques.

Belly-dancing skills, which Clark picked up from teachers in Maryland and California, are a main draw as well, she said.

"The style that we do is very friendly and welcoming, so it’s something that appeals to pretty much anyone."

Clark also serves as artistic director of a gypsy-tribal belly dance company, Czigany's World Fusion Dance, which performs throughout the area.

Classes at the studio are offered seven days a week at various times.

Prices are as follows:

• 10-week class card for zumba, $65 (attend any of the other classes for a couple of dollars to upgrade)
• 8 weeks of yoga, Pilates, shimmyfit (a mix of zumba and belly-dance moves), $64 
• 8 weeks of belly dance, $76
• Drop-in rates are $8 for zumba, $10 for yoga, Pilates or shimmyfit and $13 for belly dancing.

Class attire is casual; most students wear tank tops and exercise pants. They can opt not to expose their stomachs in class and performances.

The studio is at 51026 Washington. For more information, visit czigany-dance.com.