Gabriela Figueroa
Gabriela Figueroa’s passionate journey with Middle Eastern dance first began in 2011. She studied with Natalie El-Ghoul, a Middle Eastern and contemporary choreographer at La Fábrica in Guayaquil, Ecuador and also with certified somatic teacher Carolina Cruz, from Quito, Ecuador at Frente de Danza Independiente.
In 2015 Gabriela became a member of Natalia Nazario's multiple award-winning troupe Raks Al Zahra troupe and in 2018, she completed the Bellyqueen Teacher Training Course led by Kaeshi Chai.
Gabriela continues to grow each day by studying different styles such as Middle Eastern folklore, Romani, Flamenco and other modalities contributing to her versatility as both a performer and choreographer. As a proud member of the Bellyqueen school faculty, Gabriela's teaching focuses on history and culture, creating community and integration of mind and body through dance.
In-Person 2025 Schedule
Mondays 6.30-7.30pm: Basic Belly Dance (Studio 4A)
Mondays 7.30-8.30pm: Beginner / Intermediate Technique + Combos (Studio 4A)
Wednesdays 6.30-7.30pm: Intermediate Raqs Sharqi (Studio 4C)
Wednesdays 7.30-8.30pm: The Hadarians Troupe Rehearsals (Invite Only. Studio 4C)
Fridays 6.30-7.30pm: Winter Showcase Performance Projecct (10/3-12/12. Studio 4C)
Fridays 7.30-8.30pm: Khaleegy Performance Project (9/26-11/14. Studio 4C)
Descriptions
Basic Belly Dance
Embark on an exciting journey of belly dance discovery, guided step-by-step by our experienced instructors, alongside a supportive group of fellow absolute beginners. Embrace a nurturing environment that fosters growth and progress. Every month, we will focus on a different curriculum, building seamlessly upon the previous week's lessons. Unlock the captivating world of belly dance and master its foundational vocabulary and moves with ease. No prior dance experience required; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!
Monday Basic Belly Dance Curriculum Schedule
January: Hathor
February: Universal
March: Ma'at
April: Bastet
May: Hathor
June: Universal
July: Ma'at
August: Bastet
September: Hathor
October: Universal
November: Ma'at
December: Bastet
Beginner / Intermediate Technique and Combos
Join Gabriela Figueroa for a beginner-to-intermediate belly dance class that builds a strong technical foundation while keeping things fun and danceable. Each session focuses on clean technique, targeted drills, and short combinations to help you link movements together with confidence and flow. Perfect for dancers looking to solidify the basics and start exploring more intricate patterns.
Intermediate Raqs Sharqi
In this intermediate level class, you will drill technique, combos and choreography in the Raqs Sharqi style. What is Raqs Sharqi? It is rooted in Egyptian social and folkloric dances with influences from western dance genres such as ballet and musical theatre.
Hadarians Troupe
The Hadarians troupe is comprised of Gabriela’s intermediate to advanced students who perform at showcases, festivals and more. Invite only.
Khaleegy Performance Project
Join Gabriela Figueroa for a special Khaleegy Performance Project! In this series, you’ll learn the beautiful hair, hand, and dress movements of the Khaleegy dance style and prepare a group choreography to perform at Djam NYC Arabic Night on Sunday, November 16. Open to all levels—come immerse yourself in Gulf culture and shine on stage!
When: 6 weeks - Fridays 7:30 to 8:30 pm
9/26, 10/3, 10/17, 10/24, 11/7, 11/14 (No class 10/10 and 10/31)
INVESTMENT: $145, $130 unlimited pass members
- Includes tech rehearsal, ticket to the show, video and photos
- Costume is extra
- Invite at least 2 friends to see you perform