About Serpentine Studios
Since September 2011 we have been known for our approachable, fun, and fabulous movement classes. We offer top-quality instruction in various styles of bellydance taught by Atlantic Canada's most experienced artists, as well as circus arts, hula hoop, burlesque, flexibility, and fitness classes.
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Meet Our Founders
Laura Selenzi and Monique Ryan spent years dreaming Serpentine Studios into reality, envisioning a safe space where people come to explore movement, discover bellydance, and join a vibrant and supportive community. With over 20 years of training each, Monique’s fusion dance and circus arts background and Laura’s classic Egyptian bellydance and manual therapy background combine to create a unique and hypnotic style that has delighted students and audiences across Canada since 2003.
After years of “Cabaret Serpentine“ working together to produce popular annual shows, classes, workshops, and bringing international bellydance luminaries to the Maritimes, the duo realized their goal of opening Serpentine Studios as of 2011 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The studio is now celebrating its 8th year as a driving force in Halifax’s creative dance and movement scene.
Resident Dance Companies
Ranging from student dance troupes to professional dance companies, our passionate performers are available for a range of performances from community events, to festivals, to staged presentations. Contact us to find out more!
Serpentine Dance Company
A professional bellydance collective associated with Serpentine Studios, Laura Selenzi, Monique Ryan and Tina Afsana are Serpentine Dance Company, a dynamic trio exploring the traditional roots as well as the evolving modern potential of bellydance.
Laura’s years of experience in Egyptian and fusion bellydance, combined with Monique’s training in circus arts and world fusion dance; and Tina’s years of Egyptian and contemporary dance experience result in an elevated theatrical, skilled and compelling style.
Hire these dancers as soloists, a duet, or a trio for your finest events.
Serpentine Fusion Troupe
A world dance fusion troupe lead by Monique Ryan. This group performs many different styles of bellydance, Bollywood, Hula, Tahitian, and much more. Members include: Jennifer Prescott, Shannon Parker, Clare Critchley, Gaia Aish, Neely Colter, Carey Coffin, and Karyn McLellan.
Serpentine Egyptian Troupe
Formed in 2013, this group presents classic Egyptian and fusion style belly dance as taught by Laura Selenzi at Serpentine Studios in Halifax. Current members include Tina Afsana, LeeAnne Crouse, Maia Dauphinee, Krista Tilley, Rebecca Harrison, Kaitlyn Watson, Diane Nowell, and Bonny Lee.