Serpentine Dance Studio

- 4930 St Elmo Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814

Nestled in the bustling and vibrant neighborhood of Bethesda, Maryland, Serpentine Dance Studio is a truly unique destination that transcends the traditional idea of a dance school. It’s a place where authentic Egyptian-style belly dance is taught with unparalleled expertise, and where students can also find rare, hand-crafted goods from Cairo and Morocco. As a proud women-owned business, Serpentine Dance Studio creates a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for a diverse community of dancers. At its heart is owner and world-renowned instructor Yasmin Henkesh, whose passion and extensive knowledge of belly dance technique and history are evident in every class.

The studio's reputation is built on the foundation of its professional instruction and the rich, cultural experience it provides. As one satisfied student noted, "Yasmin is very knowledgeable about technique and the history of belly dance. Her individualized feedback has continued to stick with me as I practice." This level of personalized attention, even in a group setting, is a testament to the studio's commitment to excellence. While some may seek a more casual atmosphere, others appreciate the focused, no-nonsense approach that helps them improve their skills dramatically. Serpentine Dance Studio is more than just a place to take classes; it’s a beautifully decorated space where dancers can not only perfect their craft but also be mentored by a true expert in the field.

Serpentine Dance Studio is conveniently located at 4930 St Elmo Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814. This prime location is situated in a lively area of downtown Bethesda, making it easily accessible for residents of Montgomery County and the broader Maryland region.

The studio is committed to accessibility for all patrons. It provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, wheelchair-accessible seating, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet, ensuring that everyone can comfortably enjoy the facility. For those arriving by car, there is a paid multi-storey car park and paid street parking available nearby. The studio's location is also within a short walking distance of the Bethesda Metro Station, making it a convenient option for those using public transportation.

Serpentine Dance Studio offers a specialized but comprehensive range of services that cater to both dancers and those looking for unique cultural goods.

• Dance Classes: The studio specializes in Belly Dance, offering classes for all skill levels, from Beginner's Classes and Beginner Belly Dance to Advanced Classes. They also provide classes for other dance styles like Beginning Samba. A popular offering is Cardio Belly Dance and Zumba, which are fun, high-energy workouts.

• Private Lessons: For a more personalized experience, students can book Private Lessons. As one reviewer noted, even a drop-in class can feel like an intensive private lesson due to the small class sizes and personalized feedback.

• Workshops and Training: The studio offers specialized classes on topics like the History of Egyptian Belly Dance and has programs for Competition Coaching and Finger Cymbal Lessons, providing in-depth training for serious students.

• Studio Rentals: The beautiful and spacious studio is available for Studio Rentals, making it a great option for other instructors or for special events.

• Unique Retail Offerings: Beyond dance, Serpentine is also a Jewellery Store and a Lighting Shop. They sell custom, hand-made silver jewelry direct from Cairo's Khan Khalil market, specializing in ancient Egyptian pharaonic pieces. They also offer hand-made Moroccan lighting fixtures, from small lanterns to multi-story chandeliers, with the option for special orders.

• Wellness Services: The studio also incorporates a focus on wellness with classes like Sound Healing, offering a holistic approach to mind and body health.

What makes Serpentine Dance Studio a truly exceptional place are its unique features and highlights, which create a standout experience for all who visit.

• Expert and Knowledgeable Instruction: Yasmin Henkesh is a true authority in her field. Her extensive knowledge of belly dance technique, history, and culture is a significant highlight, providing a level of education that is hard to find elsewhere.

• Authentic Egyptian Style: The studio focuses on authentic Egyptian-style belly dance, which is a key differentiator for serious dancers looking for a traditional and culturally rich experience.

• Welcoming and Inclusive Community: Serpentine Dance Studio is identified as a transgender safe space and is LGBTQ+ friendly. This dedication to creating a truly inclusive environment makes it a welcoming home for a diverse range of people.

• Women-Owned Business: As a women-owned business, the studio embodies a spirit of empowerment and community, which is highly valued by its patrons.

• Unique Retail Boutique: The combination of a dance studio with a curated boutique featuring authentic goods from Cairo and Morocco is incredibly rare and adds to the studio’s unique appeal and cultural immersion.

• Beautiful and Clean Facility: The studio is described as "BEAUTIFUL!" with a lovely design, spacious layout, and even a top-of-the-line water dispenser, showing the attention to detail that enhances the overall experience.

For inquiries about classes, studio rentals, or to learn more about the unique retail offerings, you can contact Serpentine Dance Studio using the information below.

Address: 4930 St Elmo Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA

Phone: (301) 654-2224

Why is Serpentine Dance Studio worth choosing? It is a truly unparalleled institution for anyone in Maryland interested in the art and culture of belly dance. The studio’s commitment to providing authentic, high-quality instruction from a world-renowned expert sets it apart from more casual dance studios. The small class sizes and personalized feedback ensure that every student, regardless of their level, receives the attention they need to improve their technique and artistry.

Beyond the dance floor, the studio is a community-focused space that is explicitly inclusive and welcoming to all. The addition of the unique retail offerings of authentic Egyptian jewelry and Moroccan lighting fixtures makes it a one-of-a-kind destination. Whether you're a serious dancer looking for a mentor, a beginner wanting to try a new fitness class, or a local looking for a beautiful space and unique cultural goods, Serpentine Dance Studio offers a rich, rewarding, and truly special experience. It is a gem in the heart of Bethesda that adds immeasurable value to the local arts scene.

Serpentine Dance Studio

4930 St Elmo Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA