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This one's for the ladies

posted by Kristen Fusco on 07.04.08
Michelle Charles, one of the owners of Goddess Hour, teaches a belly dance class.
Oscar Durand
Michelle Charles, one of the owners of Goddess Hour, teaches a belly dance class.

MCC student Sheila Frank, 22, (center) takes belly dancing classes at Goddess Hour in Rochester, NY
Oscar Durand
MCC student Sheila Frank, 22, (center) takes belly dancing classes at Goddess Hour in Rochester, NY

We have all seen the seductive women in the movies performing belly dances. We have seen the women on television with major confidence practicing cardio-strip moves. But have you ever thought about trying it yourself? When you see these women so graceful, sexy and radiant, you can’t help but wonder if you too could be just like them.

The owners of Goddess Hour on Monroe Avenue, had these same thoughts, and five years ago put their thoughts into action by opening up their own studio focusing on international dance.

“It’s an interesting story how it happened,” said Michelle Charles, one of the owners of Goddess Hour.

Charles just had her daughter, and Connie Thornton, the second owner, just recently was layed off from Xerox. They both taught belly-dancing classes and decided to create their own studio.

“We wanted to create a studio where it didn’t matter about your shape or size,” said Charles. “Where you could come and forget that you are exercising. Most women come in for fun and the camaraderie.”

Because the classes are upbeat and full of energy, you don’t have an atmosphere like the gym. This type of exercise is actually fun. And you also get the experience of different types of dance from other countries including Bollywood, the art of exotic dancing and salsa.

“With international dancing, there is more freedom of movement,” said Charles. ” [these dances are also for] Women that are looking to add a spark to their personal lives.”

Among the many types of dances, belly-dancing is by far the most popular.

“Women just love how feminine it is,” said Charles. “It’s just a celebratory dance.”

The classes at Goddess Hour work to improve the confidence of women and give them motivation to continue being active. By feeling beautiful through movement and dance, women begin to accept their flaws and embrace their strengths, Charles said.

“In one of my classes, one of my students came up to me and said ‘I love coming to the class because for one hour I feel like a goddess’,” said Charles.

For prices, times, and more information, visit www.goddesshour.com.

Kristen Fusco is a Communications/Journalism major at SUNY Geneseo in the class of 2008

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