Frequently Asked Questions

Bellydance classes happen at Dreamlight Studio, 230 Anchor Rd, Hamilton. Location on Google Maps.

If you are facing the plaza, we are on the right side, on the end of the building.

There is parking directly in front of the studio.

We dance barefoot. If you are not comfortable or are unable to dance barefoot, please wear appropriate footwear such as ballet shoes. Running shoes aren’t ideal, as they make many movements more difficult.

Please wear comfortable clothing you can move in, such as yoga pants and a t-shirt/tank top or similar workout wear. There’s absolutely no requirement to show your stomach during class, or even performances. Wear what makes you comfortable and feel good.

If you have a hip scarf, great! Please bring it. We also have loaners in the studio for you to borrow. 

Of course! Yalla Baladi is an inclusive environment where all are welcome. There’s no age, fitness or experience requirement to join our Beginner Basics class. In this class, we start with the basics and ease into the movements; everyone progresses at their own pace.

Class size may vary by session, but we generally cap our intake to 12-14 students. This is done to make sure each student benefits from the instructor’s attention to help them learn and progress.

Like any art form, learning bellydance is an ongoing pursuit. Julie Aime has been dancing since her youth and practicing bellydance for over two decades, and she still endeavours to learn new techniques, combinations and movements!

The Beginner Basics class is intended to help you understand the basics over 3 or 4 months. Some students may feel ready to move on to the next level after this; however, most choose to continue with another Basics class. There’s no wrong way to learn, and since each session is tailored to the students present, you’ll never find an identical experience.

If you miss a class, you can take another class during the same session as a make-up. Please talk to the instructor prior to the make-up class to ensure that the class you want to take is appropriate. You can read more about our class policies here.

I’ve danced all my life, and bring that passion to every live performance. With a Julie Aime bellydance show, you can expect a high level of technique, captivating stage presence, and eye-catching high-end costuming. 

Each show is custom-designed to your event, taking into account the occasion, the venue, and the audience. Because of this, you can count on an engaging performance that will help make your special night memorable for everyone there.

Off the dance floor, I bring a client-focused approach to planning. You can count on timely replies, professionalism, reliability and punctuality.

The Classic Show is my most popular option, and it runs up to 20 minutes. This length is a great option to keep your guests engaged in the evening, without overshadowing the reason for the event. 

Of course, if you’re looking for the bellydancing to be the star of the evening, we can also discuss a longer set or multiple appearances. Regardless of what you pick, my aim for every show is to give guests a great experience and help elevate the excitement of the event.

The Shimmy Party is a 45-60 minute lesson, tailored to be both easy and fun for all your guests, regardless of experience level. 

If you want something extra special, ask about adding a mini performance in full costume!

Yes! Bellydance (Raqs Sharqi) has its roots in the informal dancing (Raqs Baladi) that people young and old throughout the Middle East participate in during celebrations and weddings. 

Kids especially love to get up and dance with the 'princess' or the 'mermaid', as they often call me. The upbeat music, interesting moves and shiny costumes always draw them in.

Participation is always encouraged but never mandatory! I love audience participation, seeing guests smiling and dancing together. This is a great reflection of how bellydance fits into Middle Eastern culture.

Whether your guests want to come hip shimmy with me on the dance floor, or do a little shoulder shimmy in their seats, I always try to keep them having fun. 

I most commonly use Egyptian music; from traditional to modern, based on the needs of the event. However, each show can be adapted to the culture of the audience you are hosting. 

Specific song requests will be accommodated whenever possible. Please share these requests at the time of booking so that I can plan the show around your preferred song. If you don’t know the song at the time of booking, but know that you will want to select it, just let me know. I’ll ask you to share the final song choice at least 2 weeks ahead of the event.

Tipping is encouraged and always warmly appreciated, but is not a required part of performances. 

If guests would like to offer a tip, the best way to do so is to either throw the money over the dancer’s head (a money shower - it’s fun and showy!); or to hand her the bills while she is dancing, and she will tuck them away into her costume. Please do not try to tuck money into her costume yourself. Clients are also welcome to tip in an envelope before or after the show.

In addition to tipping, leaving a good review is another great way to support your bellydance performer. If you enjoyed the performance, please feel free to leave your comment on Google. 

Yes. If you’ve booked a solo performance, Julie Aime will be the performer.

Performances are available for mixed or women-only groups. We don’t accept performances at bachelor parties or any event where there will only be men in attendance.

The more lead time I have, the more I can tailor the show to your event. I recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks in advance, which allows for greater availability, proper preparation, and accommodation of special requests. 

During spring, summer and holiday months, booking 2-4 months in advance helps you avoid missing out on great entertainment during busy seasons.

You can visit this pageto send me a message with the event details. Please share as many details as possible, even if everything isn’t completely confirmed, so I can get back to you quickly with the best option. 

Once we agree on the type of show you’d like, I will: 

• Send a performance contract to sign 

• Request a non-refundable deposit

• Provide confirmation of any special requests