By Kristi Cummins / Staff Writer

Students interested in learning the ancient Egyptian art of belly dancing should stop by Village Hall tonight (April 10) at 9 p.m. for some lessons from one of Pitt-Greensburg’s own students.

Nancy Estrada, advisor of the International Academic Villages, knew that Monica Abdelshahid had Egyptian roots and asked her if she could belly dance. Abdelshahid has in fact been belly dancing since she was 4 years old, and even has roots in ballet, which she studied for 11 years. She participated in — as well as led — belly dances at her high school.

“I haven't taken any belly dancing lessons. I taught myself by practicing in front of a tape while listening to the music,” Abdelshahid said.

This event will be the third and final session of the belly dancing lessons. Abdelshahid has been teaching the participants some basic moves at first, and moves into harder ones. After a while, they put a dance together.

“It went really well. They were amazed by the Egyptian belly dancing songs,” Abdelshahid said.

Anyone is welcome to come to the event, whether or not they have any experience with dancing. Beginners are encouraged to come and learn.

“Belly dancing is actually something I like to do for fun when I'm bored or something. It’s kind of an exercise for me. When I went to Egypt, I found out that it's the most popular type of dance there, which made me practice it more,” Abdelshahid said.

Aside from her own interest in the art, Abdelshahid’s parents pushed her so she would really get into the dancing. She was able to take a part of her heritage and turn it into a talent and a hobby.

The event will go from 9 to 11 p.m. in Village Hall 118. IAV and HAV credit will be given to participants.