Beginning January 14, College of the Siskiyous will offer students the opportunity to learn the ancient and enduring art of the Belly Dance. Creative Expression (PEAC 341 / #7043) will meet on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 pm in the Theater Building, room 4. The class will continue to meet weekly until March 4, 2010. A second session (PEAC 346 / #7042) will begin March 25 and will continue until May 13.

Denise Mannion will instruct the class. The cost to register is $30 per 8-week session. The class will cover traditional as well as interpretive American styles of Belly Dance. Originating in the Middle East as a social dance for everyone, it is excellent exercise for developing core strength and cardiovascular health. Rhythm, musical awareness and flexibility, improved grace, posture and balance are among some of the many benefits of this class. Students who register should wear comfortable clothing and bring a scarf to tie around the hips. All genders, ages, body types, fitness levels, and levels of experience are welcome.

Class sessions will include warm ups and drills to develop controlled isolations. Technique, layering and combinations will be followed by choreography. Registration for this class is now open and students are urged to register early as class size is limited.

For more information contact Denise Mannion at (530) 938-5804 or send an email to mannion@siskiyous.edu. Students interested in registering for classes may do so at the Weed or Yreka Campuses or online by visiting www.siskiyous.edu and clicking “COS Online Services.” The Weed Campus may also be reached by calling (530) 938-5555 or toll-free, (888) 397-4339.