Learn to Bellydance in Toronto
Ya Amar Dance offers instruction of Raqs Sharqi (commonly referred to as Bellydance) and various social/folkloric dance styles of the MENA region (Middle Eastern, North African).
Lead by instructor Melissa, our classes are known not only for providing exceptional movement technique , but also in-depth knowledge of the cultural context and history related to Raqs Sharqi. Classes are offered for all levels of students, whether you are stepping into your first class or a seasoned dancer. We offer a warm and welcoming experience to all our students, with classes that are fun, dynamic, and great challenge for both your body and mind.
Try one of our classes and fall in love with the beauty of Raqs Sharqi!

Your Instructor

Melissa Gamal
Melissa is an award-winning dancer based in Toronto, Canada. Her fluid movement style and refined musical interpretation have made her an internationally admired Raqs Sharqi (bellydance) artist.
As an experienced instructor, her classes and workshops are sought after for her attention to technique as well as her knowledge of historical and cultural contexts. Melissa has been invited to teach and perform across Canada, the USA, and in Egypt. As a guest in this cultural art form, she travels regularly to Egypt for her own personal studies, in order to bring the most informed and up-to-date instruction to her classes.
Melissa is the Director of the Ya Amar School of Dance, with the goal of providing comprehensive training in various Egyptian dance styles. Melissa has also gained a reputation as a top-notch event producer for bringing rising stars, scholars and master instructors to the Canadian dance scene. In recent years she's become known for her Golden Era dance styling, and her mastery of Sagat (finger cymbals), and was invited to play at the Cairo Opera House in December 2021.
Follow me on Instagram for recent performances, news and classes
Contact Us
LOCATIONS
Saturday class Location:
Steps Dance Studio
819 Yonge St. 3rd Floor
Toronto, ON. M4W 2G9
Tuesday class Location:
Location: The Railpath Arts Centre
35 Golden Ave. Suite 108
Toronto, ON. M6R 2J5