A Saginaw native of Greek descent, Mrs. Rodriguez had been dancing from early childhood, performed statewide for many years with a local Greek dance troupe, and has been around belly dancers since a young age. She began belly dancing in 1985 and danced with the Habibi Dancers of Lansing, MI.  After moving back to Saginaw in 1996, and the birth of her son, she explored the possibility of taking classes from experienced local instructors or joining a troupe . The lack of opportunities prompted her to create Hip Hop Belly Dance in 2002.

What Is Hip Hop Belly Dance?

Hip Hop Belly Dance incorporates traditional belly dance moves with more non-traditional and modern American, Arabic and Greek music. The music is all up-beat and hip.  It is an excellent form of low-impact exercise.  All that is required is a positive attitude and the desire to learn.  This dance form increases your heart rate (for a great cardio work-out), strengthens and tones your whole body and makes you work muscles you never thought you had.   There are also more personal  benefits.  The DIVAS promote belly dance as an art form which showcases the beauty of being a woman.    Friendships are made, bonds are created, and a sister-hood is formed.  Most of all - it empowers a woman!  It builds an even greater self confidence!  It makes them aware that their body is beautiful no matter what age, shape, or size they are!   Plus, it's just a whole lot of fun!