By Thomas Smith

Victoria Kramkowski’s favourite way to meet people in the community is through belly dancing.

A Toronto native, Kramkowski and her family purchased a cottage in the Carnarvon area two years ago.

After visiting Haliburton Highlands Brewing, Kramkowski was struck by how lively of an arts scene the brewery hosted with live music nights, a ukelele shop, and other programming happening all the time.

While growing up, Kramkoski danced ballet like many young girls. The first time she ever saw belly dancing was when she was brought to her mother’s work party.

‘“I thought it was so beautiful, so amazing,” said Kramkowski.

Without a belly dancing studio nearby, Kramkowski was in her 20s when she revisited her dream of belly dancing.

Living her dream, she has been belly dancing for the past 20 years.

While there are many types of belly dancing, Kramkowski specializes in Egyptian style belly dance, or raqs sharki. While this style has roots in Egyptian social and folkloric dancing, raqs sharki was heavily influenced by the vaudeville style performers of the 1900s and continues to be influenced by western dancers today.

Kramkowski typically teaches people cabaret style dance moves. The movements are simple, yet elegant. All ages are invited to participate in the class, says Kramkowski. In the past, she has taught both children and at retirement centres.

“Belly dancing looks beautiful on every type of body,” said Kramkowski. “I love dancing with, and for women.”

Kramkowski says that unlike ballet, people can belly dance their entire lives, regardless of your age. It is a great workout too, getting you up and moving, while using your core and other muscles that may not be getting much attention. Belly dancing gives you a cardio workout through moving and Kramkowski says it is great for strength training, especially your arms, shoulders, and legs.

One unexpected benefit with belly dancing is increasing your body’s awareness. Through isolating movements and coordination, you can learn about your own body better and better use your muscles.

Throughout the workshop, Kramkowski works towards teaching choreography that students can take home and dance at home.

“I love when I have brand new students belly dancing,” said Kramkowski. “I get to watch them grow and progress.”

Balancing her time between living and working in Mississauga and visiting the cottage, Kramkowski hopes to build an interest in belly dancing in Carnarvon and one day, start their own belly dancing troupe.

While women are Kramkowski’s primary demographic, everyone is welcome to participate in the workshop, with the stipulation that they are participating with an open mind and are coming to dance.

Participation in the belly dancing workshop costs $20 per person. All participants are encouraged to wear what is comfortable. It is highly recommended to wear pants, leggings, or shorts in order to see your leg movements. Belly dancers typically dance barefoot, but you can dance in your socks or dancing slippers, if you have them.

The next belly dancing workshop will be taking place on Wednesday, Aug. 27 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Haliburton Highlands Brewing. Refreshments will be available, including non-alcoholic options.

“It’s a great time,” said Kramkowski.