Sohaila's Academy of Artistic Dance and Wellness Center in Escondido, CA, is led by the highly experienced Sohaila, a professional belly dancer with over 40 years in the field. Offering classes every Wednesday evening from 7 to 9 PM, the center is renowned for its nurturing approach, catering to dancers of all levels. Sohaila's instruction style is patient and tailored to individual progress, making it an ideal place for both beginners and seasoned performers. The studio's private location and its in-house market for costumes and props create a comprehensive and supportive dance environment.
Sohaila's reputation as a respected dancer and teacher is highlighted by glowing reviews that praise her dedication and ability to foster a positive learning experience. However, potential students should be aware of some negative feedback regarding the handling of student departures, which could be a concern for those sensitive to public critique. Despite this, the academy stands out as a premier destination for anyone passionate about belly dance.
Pros:
- Highly experienced instructor
- Supportive and patient teaching approach
- Private, beautiful studio location
- Classes suitable for all levels
- Available props and costumes
- Comfortable learning environment
- Encouraging feedback for students
- Strong sense of community
- Positive atmosphere according to most reviews
- Great opportunities for performances
Cons:
- Limited class availability (Wednesdays only)
- Negative experiences with handling student departures
- Potential for public critique
Location / Contact
- Address: Kashmere Ln, Escondido, CA 92029, United States
- Phone:+1 760-519-9615
- Email:sohailainternational@gmail.com
- Website:sohailainternational.com
Rating Stats
Reviews (10)
Frequently Asked Questions
Except the peak hours, this place remains quite free or moderately crowded.
This business has a rating of 4.8-star.
This business has 10 reviews.
The address is: Kashmere Ln, Escondido, CA 92029, United States .
The contact number is +1 760-519-9615
This service is listed under Wellness Center .
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Cherry Peterson
1 year ago
I have been dancing with Sohaila for 12 years. I come from a hip hop and modern background and Sohaila is able to break down the moves so that I was able to make the transition to bellydance. Sohaila embodies the authentic, exotic experience of learning bellydance and most near and middle eastern dance forms. For those who would like to perform or deepen their understanding, she also can provide props and costumes. Her studio has also been a stage for many of our performances.I have been around long enough to see many students come and go, many who have gone on to be professionals, some who have come back to take class again, and others who have become life-long bellydance enthusiasts. Please take extra caution in trusting negative reviews of a teacher who has been dancing for over 40 years, danced professionally in Egypt, brought bellydance to Mexico, and has been teaching for approximately 30 years. We recently had a couple of very toxic students leave and they have not left peacefully. They have resorted to lying and harassing, desperately trying to destroy Sohaila’s hard-earned reputation. From my perspective, the atmosphere is so much more positive since they have left. Finally, there is no one trying to undermine Sohaila or the quality of her class.If you want to learn from the Queen of bellydance here in San Diego, Sohaila is it.
Stephanie Lee
2 years ago
Sohaila's space is so beautiful. It is perfect for dance, any type of teaching, or a gathering. I was fortunate to use the space while teaching Pilates classes. It was super convenient and spacious. Check it out for your next event.
Kristine Meyers
2 years ago
Sohaila is an amazing teacher, her choreographys are fun, upbeat, and always a crowd pleaser. I have been dancing with her for 9 years, and cant wait for class every Wednesday
Veronica S
2 years ago
I have been to Sohaila's studio for workshops and events. Her space is spectacular and what she offers is off the charts amazing! I highly recommend her as a teacher and as a performer!
Brigitte Caric
2 years ago
Sohaila publicly and privately humiliates students who leave her class. Sohaila, in her trusted position as a dance teacher, will solicit from others hateful remarks about her former students. If you make her angry in any way, she will threaten "legal action" for almost anything at all. Please do not allow your friends, daughters or anyone you know join Sohaila's class - it could quite possibly lead to great heartache. Public humiliation causes pain. The abuse of power over students by a teacher is not acceptable.The most respected teachers are ones who make students passionate participants, not fearful followers.
Thomas Peterson
2 years ago
The best Bellydance troup in San Diego. Sohaila is a true professional and has been Bellydancing most of her life. She’s learned from the best and has been to Egypt to perfect her skills. She was also the first to introduce bellydancing in Mexico. She’s an excellent choreographer and knows how to pass on her knowledge to her students. If you’re looking to become a bellydancer then join up with Sohaila !!
Maria Courser
2 years ago
I love Sohaila's class!!! It is fun and challenging, every class gives you the opportunity to learn dancing techniques that you can use to perform. Sohaila has a boutique that has beautiful costumes, jewelry and everything you need to belly dance.
Janie Maguire
2 years ago
Sohaila is a fantastic belly dance instructor. She works at each individuals speed, is patient, praises accomplishments, and encourages better performance. Her studio is really nice. Full wall mirrors to help with refining steps and with training. She has a full market behind the mirrors where she has the costumes, accessories etc. For purchase. I love that her studio is on her private property. At the beginning I was really self conscious about my lack of grace. The privacy it afforded really helped me get over my perceived shortcomings (she always told me it was all in my head and I had nothing to be embarrassed about). I loved taking classes there and recommend her classes to anyone especially beginners.
Tarciana Belly Dance
2 years ago
Sohaila was my first belly dance teacher in CA. She is very dedicate to every student to make sure we all learn properly. Her studio is gorgeous and we really feel very comfortable with her technique. Many years passed and we are still friends and she always tells me how proud she is of my belly dance career. Thank you Sohaila for being part of my life as student/dancer and as a friend. xoxo
jessica nguyen
2 years ago
Sohaila is a very special honest, professional as many years experience Egyptian belly dancing, since her first perform was 16 years old. More than that she is always work hard on all students to make sure everyone enjoy the beautiful dance. I really admired her because she such as a star. But she is very humble and have a kind heart. Always helping people and give advises to everyone. Everything positive, possible, and full of happiness here at “Sohaila Shining Star”Thank you very much for an opportunity to know you Sohaila. You are very talented. ❤️