A RECENTLY opened yoga and fitness studio in Taunton is hosting professional Egyptian dancer and Arabic musician, Shema Raqs for a series of dance workshops.

Shema, who teaches Egyptian (belly dance) and Middle Eastern style dances to people of all ages and backgrounds, is taking sessions at Nourish Yoga and Fitness, in the Coal Orchard, facing St James Street.

During a 24-year career, Shema she has taught and performed across the USA, Europe, Morocco, Scandinavia, and Egypt.

She opened the UK's first dance school dedicated to Arabic Dance and Music in Bristol in 2010 and spent two years performing with local musicians in Sinai, Egypt, while living and learning with a Bedouin community.

Egyptian dance is a low-impact dance, suitable for everyone aged 14 years plus, including complete beginners, as no dance or movement experience is required.

The 1.5-hour workshops are a fun and safe way to learn the basics of this dynamic and elegant style of dance.

The first workshop is taking place on Saturday, April 6, from 10.30am to 12 noon, with further dates planned for May and June.

The workshop is £20 per person and can be booked by visiting www.nourishyoga.co.uk and selecting the event.