Dancing Around the World in Asheville: A Journey with World Dance Asheville

When people think of Asheville, North Carolina, they often think of art, music, mountains, and craft beer. But tucked into this vibrant city is something just as powerful, just as soulful—World Dance Asheville, a place where cultures connect and communities grow through the joy of movement.

My own dance journey began with a moment I didn’t fully understand at the time. At 17, I signed up for a class at the American Dance Festival, led by none other than Chuck Davis—the world-renowned African dancer, choreographer, and founder of DanceAfrica. He wasn’t just a teacher. He was an edu-tainer, as he liked to call himself. Under the hot summer sun, in a field filled with rhythm and dust, he taught us more than steps. He taught us unity, respect, and the power of tradition in movement. Every drumbeat was a story. Every step a history. And unknowingly, he planted seeds in me that would one day grow into what is now World Dance Asheville.

What Is World Dance Asheville?

World Dance Asheville is more than just a dance studio. It’s a cultural hub. It’s a space where stories are shared through steps, and people from all walks of life come together to explore dances from around the world. Whether you're just discovering dance or you’ve been moving your whole life, you’ll find a welcoming space here.

Rooted in the values of respect, education, and community that Dr. Davis instilled in me all those years ago, World Dance Asheville offers a place where you don’t just learn a dance—you learn its meaning, its history, and the culture it comes from.

Beginner Bellydance Asheville: Where It All Begins

Let’s talk about one of our most popular offerings: Beginner bellydance Asheville.

Bellydance is one of the most ancient and empowering forms of movement. At World Dance Asheville, we offer beginner bellydance classes designed for every body, every age, and every background. No, you don’t need to be “a dancer.” You just need the willingness to show up and move.

These classes focus on foundational moves—hip circles, shimmies, figure-eights—and how to connect to your core strength and rhythm. But we go deeper than that. We explore the cultural origins of bellydance, from Egypt to Turkey to Lebanon. You’ll gain not only skill but understanding, too. We dance with intention and with respect for the traditions we’re learning.

And trust us—there’s nothing quite like the feeling of finding your rhythm in a room full of laughter, music, and new friends.

Traditional Hula Asheville: Grace, History, and Heart

Another vibrant offering at World Dance Asheville is our Traditional hula Asheville. Hula isn’t just a dance; it’s a language. It tells stories of ancestors, gods, love, nature, and struggle. Each motion of the hand or sway of the hips has meaning, deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture.

Our hula classes focus on the traditional style, hula kahiko, which is danced to chanting and percussion rather than modern instruments. This form is slower, deeper, and full of expression. You’ll learn chants, footwork, and the sacred stories behind each movement.

In Asheville, many are surprised to find such authentic cultural experiences. But that’s what makes World Dance Asheville unique—we bring global traditions home, and we honor them as they deserve to be honored.

Through traditional hula, we’re not just dancing. We’re connecting to generations of storytellers who came before us.

Dance Workshops Asheville NC: Expand, Explore, Experience

Sometimes, a weekly class just isn’t enough. That’s why we host regular Dance workshops Asheville NC, featuring guest teachers from around the globe and deep dives into specific styles.

These workshops are for everyone—whether you're a beginner or an experienced dancer. Think of them as weekend adventures: three-hour intensives where you can immerse yourself in something new. Past workshops have included West African drumming and dance, flamenco footwork, Bollywood, Bhangra, Haitian folkloric dance, and even fusion styles.

Workshops offer the chance to learn in a different way—more concentrated, more intensive, and often more transformative. They’re also great ways to meet new people in the community who share your love for movement and culture.

And, in the spirit of Dr. Chuck Davis, every workshop begins with a cultural context. We always ask: where does this dance come from? Who dances it? What does it mean?

We believe dance should always be taught with heart and respect—not just copied from the internet, but passed on with intention.

A Home for Everyone: The World Dance Studio Asheville

At the heart of it all is our physical space, the World dance studio Asheville. It’s not a flashy place, but it’s filled with spirit. We’ve created a studio where you can walk in as a stranger and leave feeling like part of something bigger.

The studio is warm and welcoming, with colorful textiles and mirrors that reflect more than just movement—they reflect growth, joy, and connection. It’s a safe space to try something new, to mess up, to laugh, to get stronger, to cry, and to celebrate.

We offer classes for all levels, all ages, and all bodies. Nobody is too old, too out of shape, or too inexperienced to join us. That’s the beauty of world dance—it meets you where you are and takes you somewhere new.

We even have family-friendly events and community nights where dancers of all generations can share in the rhythm and fun.