Saturday, July 18, 2026

【HAFLA in SINGAPORE – Performer Applications Open!】New term: Haifa Wehbe medley • "TABI YOGA for Noto" charity project • Upcoming events & more...


Hello everyone,


This is Nadia, a Japanese belly dancer based in Singapore.

As always, thank you so much for taking the time to read my rather long newsletter.
And just to clarify—despite the times—we're living in, I still write every word myself, not AI! 😄

First of all, some exciting news!

With the hope of igniting a blazing new spark in Singapore's entertainment scene, I've decided to launch a brand-new event this autumn.

The title is...




"BEYOND the SILKROAD – Where East Meets the Mystique of the Orient "

We have always been captivated by the mysterious allure of the lands beyond the Silk Road. The enchanting sounds of the maqam, the rhythms that seem to travel across endless deserts, and the magic of belly dance have cast a spell on us—one that, even after many years, has never faded. We continue to dance, still under that spell.

As we dream of the exotic world that lies beyond the Silk Road, I came to realize something after making countless journeys to "the other side." Seen from there, this side of the Silk Road—the Far East of Asia—is every bit as mysterious, exotic, and beautiful.

Singapore, where diverse cultures from around the world come together, is a vibrant melting pot of people and traditions. While it may not possess the centuries-old history of Istanbul, it has its own unique tropical energy and youthful spirit. Among its most fascinating neighborhoods is the Arab Street–Haji Lane district, always alive with locals who are passionate about music and fashion, as well as travelers from around the globe. If I were to compare it to Tokyo, it has the creative atmosphere of Harajuku blended with the nightlife energy of Roppongi.

At the very heart of this cultural hub stands Blu Jaz, a legendary jazz bar that has remained one of Singapore's most beloved live music venues for over three decades. Since the 1990s, it has continuously attracted audiences and artists alike without ever losing its place at the forefront of the city's live entertainment scene.

And it is here—at this iconic venue—that we are thrilled to present our new event.




 

For a long time, I have envisioned creating an event that brings together two worlds: our longing for the mysterious lands beyond the Silk Road, and the refined beauty of the Far East as seen from the other side. A celebration where these two perspectives meet and blend into one.

This autumn of 2026 marks the beginning of that vision. My hope is for BEYOND the SILKROAD to grow into an ongoing series, evolving year after year.

Beyond its artistic concept, however, this event carries a deeper wish. Beyond the Silk Road lie regions that have long been marked by conflict, division, and war. Through dance, I hope to offer a small prayer for peace—that the beauty of art may remind us of our shared humanity, inspire compassion, and encourage us to look toward a more peaceful future together.

With this intention in mind, our dress code will be white. We warmly invite every guest to wear white, so that together we can transform the venue into one harmonious space, united not only by dance, but by a shared hope for peace.

Mark your calendar now: Sunday, October 25, 2:00 PM!
And perhaps it's time to check your closet for something white. 🤍

Let us create something truly unforgettable together.

A stage unlike anything you've seen before—where the passionate rhythms born of the desert meet the delicate elegance of the Far East, woven together into a single, sophisticated artistic expression.

BEYOND the SILKROAD is more than a performance.

It is a journey.
It is a dialogue between cultures.
It is our prayer for peace.

  


Performer applications for BEYOND the SILKROAD will open on August 1st.

Further details regarding the application process will be shared separately with members of the current term.

To all NADIA ONLINE and NADIA STUDIO members—it's time to start getting ready! Begin preparing now, because we can't wait to see you shine on stage.   




Event Information

Performer Registration Opens
August 1, 2026 (Sat)

Ticket Sales Open
September 1, 2026 (Tue)

Official Performer Line-up Announcement
September 1, 2026 (Tue)

Inquiries
suenadia@gmail.com


BEYOND the SILKROAD

Date
Sunday, October 25, 2026

Time
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Venue
Blu Jaz
Bali Lane, Singapore

Ticket
SGD 50
(Includes one complimentary drink and finger food.)




Now, I'd like to share something close to my heart.

This summer, I'll be broadcasting TABI YOGA from different locations across Japan.

One of those places is the Noto Peninsula, just north of my hometown of Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture. It has been quite some time since my last visit. As many of you know, this region was devastated by the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake. Although recovery efforts continue, rebuilding has progressed more slowly than many had hoped.

There isn't much I can do on my own, but I wanted to spend part of my summer there, support the local community in the simplest way I can, and contribute to the local economy—even if only in a small way.

This time, I'll be hosting TABI YOGA from a beautiful seaside inn in Noto.

The class will be approximately 60 minutes, streamed in the early morning to gently awaken your body and help you begin the day feeling refreshed and energized.

Normally, TABI YOGA is offered as a complimentary benefit for NADIA ONLINE members. This time, however, I would like to invite everyone to join with a small donation, starting from ¥500 (approximately US$5 / SGD 5) for one class. If you plan to join all three sessions, the suggested donation is ¥1,500.

And if you aren't able to attend the yoga classes but would still like to support this cause, I would be deeply grateful for a donation of ¥1,500 as well. Simply send me a DM.

This isn't a crowdfunding campaign, nor is it a tax-deductible donation program. It's simply an opportunity to turn our practice into something meaningful.

Every yen collected will be donated in full through the Japanese Red Cross Society to support relief and recovery efforts following the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake.

The amount itself doesn't matter.

What matters most is the message behind it—that we remember, that we care, and that the people of Noto are not forgotten.

Whether you're a member of NADIA ONLINE or not, I warmly invite you to join us and be part of this small act of kindness.

During the first half of August, TABI YOGA will be streamed from three beautiful locations—Noto, Tokyo, and Hakusan. From each place, I'll be sharing the positive energy, peaceful scenery, and inspiration that each destination has to offer.

I hope you'll join me, receive that energy, and start your day together with us.

And of course... let's enjoy chatting together on Zoom before and after each class!

 





TABI YOGA - special edition of "NOTO support project"

Dates
August 5 (Wed), August 7 (Fri) & August 14 (Fri), 2026

Time
Singapore: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Japan: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (JST)

Suggested Donation
SGD 5 / JPY 500 per class

All proceeds will be donated to support relief and recovery efforts for the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake through the Japanese Red Cross Society.

Inquiries
📧 suenadia@gmail.com





And now… finally, the main announcement! 😄
(Thank you for making it all the way through this very long newsletter!)

This Term's Choreography Project

The time has come to reveal our new choreography!

During the first half of 2026, we've taken on some wonderfully challenging pieces—CURFEWMATSURIOUYOUN BAHEYA, and more. They demanded strong technique, emotional depth, and plenty of energy.

So this time, I thought it might be nice to take a little "breather" (if I may say so! 😊) and dance something joyful, lighthearted, and full of positive energy.

I've chosen an Arabian Pop medley that's suitable even for beginners.

Our music will combine two songs by the Lebanese superstar Haifa Wehbe: her brand-new 2026 release "Badna Nroue" and her iconic 2006 hit "El Wawa." I'll be editing them into a single performance piece of approximately four minutes.

It's amazing how naturally these songs blend together despite being released twenty years apart. Haifa's voice is as captivating as ever, and the combination feels fresh, vibrant, and incredibly fun. I have to admit... I'm already getting excited while choreographing it! 😄

I'm also secretly hoping we'll have many opportunities to perform this piece together—at our Singapore Hafla this autumn, various upcoming events, and TOKYO HAFLA this winter.

And yes... I've already started imagining the costumes! ✨

Of course, many of you are probably wondering what Haifa is actually singing about. If you know Haifa, you'll know that she occasionally slips in some rather bold or cheeky lyrics! 😄 That's why I've once again invited Mr. Ehab to give us a special session explaining the song lyrics.

Lyrics Workshop
Wednesday, August 12 (Evening)

I highly encourage everyone to join. Understanding the lyrics always makes dancing more enjoyable—and a little safer, too! 😉

This term will run for eight weeks (with a short break during the Obon holidays).

Because this is an Arabian Pop choreography, the movements are relatively accessible, making it a wonderful opportunity for beginners as well.

If you'd like more information about the classes, please feel free to send me a DM anytime.

I can't wait to dance this fun new piece with all of you!






"BADNA NROUE & EL WAWA" Lyrics Workshop

Date
August 12, 2026 (Wed)

Time
Singapore: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM (SGT)
Japan: 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM (JST)

Fee
SGD 40

Inquiries

📧 suenadia@gmail.com


English and Japanese lyric sheets, along with learning materials, will be shared throughout the term.

The "BADNA NROUE & EL WAWA" Lyrics Workshop will also be available as an archived recording, so if you're unable to attend live, you can watch it at your convenience.

The recording will remain available for one month after the workshop.

Please find the schedule below.











One of the wonderful benefits of NADIA ONLINE is that you also enjoy unlimited access to our yoga classes.

Are you thinking...

"Isn't yoga only for people who are already flexible?"

Not at all.

In fact, it's exactly the opposite.

Let me ask you something.

Have you ever experienced muscle cramps, sprained an ankle, sore knees or lower back, or a stiff neck that just won't turn?

It may be a little uncomfortable to hear, but the truth is that we're all getting older every day. And while belly dance may look effortless, it actually requires considerable strength, endurance, and control.

To keep dancing for many years to come, we need to take care of our bodies.

That's why yoga has become an essential part of my own daily practice—not only to improve flexibility and beauty, but also to help prevent injuries and maintain a healthy, resilient body.

Today, I'd like to introduce a few of the poses I practice regularly.

This time, rather than focusing only on beauty, I'd like to share them from the perspective of building a body that stays strong, balanced, and injury-free.

Nadia's Top 5 Recommended Yoga Poses

① Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose)

Recommended for:

  • Neck and shoulder tension

  • Leg cramps

  • Poor circulation

  • Cold feet and hands

  • Swelling (water retention)

Because this pose gently opens both the upper and lower body at the same time, it encourages circulation throughout the entire body, making it one of my favorite all-around poses for improving mobility and restoring balance.





By clasping your hands behind your back, Gomukhasana gently stretches the muscles surrounding the shoulder blades—including the trapezius and subscapularis—while opening the chest.

This helps counteract rounded shoulders and poor posture, reducing unnecessary tension in the neck and upper back.

The seated position, with the knees deeply stacked, also provides an intensive stretch for the deep muscles around the hips—particularly the piriformis and surrounding hip rotators.

As circulation and lymphatic flow to the lower body improve, this pose can help relieve cold feet, swelling, muscle cramps, and fatigue in the legs, while promoting greater mobility and overall comfort.





② Cat–Cow Pose (Marjaryasana–Bitilasana)

Recommended for:

  • Lower back pain

  • Pelvic alignment

  • Spinal mobility

The Cat–Cow Pose is performed on all fours, gently alternating between rounding and arching the spine.

This flowing movement releases tension throughout the spine and the muscles surrounding the pelvis, improving spinal flexibility and encouraging healthy pelvic alignment.

It's an excellent pose for relieving stiffness in the lower back, restoring mobility after long hours of sitting, and maintaining a strong, healthy spine—especially for dancers who rely on fluid movement and core stability.





③ Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)

Recommended for:

  • Knee discomfort

  • Weak leg muscles

  • Lower-body stability

Warrior II is an excellent pose for strengthening the quadriceps (front thigh muscles), which play a vital role in supporting and stabilizing the knee joints.

As you hold the posture, focus on keeping your front knee directly above your ankle, making sure it does not move forward past your toes. Proper alignment helps protect the knee while building strength safely.

Regular practice of Warrior II improves leg strength, balance, and endurance, creating a solid foundation for healthy movement—an essential quality for belly dancers and anyone who wants to move with confidence and prevent injury.




④ Puppy Pose (Uttana Shishosana)

Recommended for:

  • Neck and shoulder tension

  • Mild stiff neck ("sleeping wrong")

  • Relaxation and stress relief

Puppy Pose is a gentle yet deeply effective stretch that releases tension in the neck, shoulders, chest, and upper back while helping the shoulder blades return to their natural alignment.

This posture also encourages relaxation by calming the nervous system and creating a sense of openness throughout the upper body.

With the head resting slightly lower than the heart, blood flow to the brain is gently increased. At the same time, the spine is lengthened and tension is released, which may help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, ease mental fatigue, and promote overall recovery.

Note: If you have a serious neck injury or acute pain, it's best to consult a healthcare professional before practicing this pose.






⑤ Toe Mobility Exercises (Yoga Warm-Up)

Recommended for:

  • Leg cramps

  • Cold feet and poor circulation

  • Swollen feet and ankles

  • Better posture and balance

  • Easier, more comfortable walking

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve circulation is by gently moving the toes—the part of the body farthest from the heart.

Activating the toes encourages blood to flow through even the smallest capillaries in the feet, creating a pleasant feeling of warmth while improving circulation throughout the lower legs.

It also helps release stiffness in the ankles and the tops of the feet, allowing excess fluid to drain more efficiently and reducing swelling.

Toe mobility exercises are commonly practiced as a yoga warm-up because they produce immediate benefits while preparing the feet and ankles for movement.

From the perspective of Traditional Eastern Medicine, many important meridians (energy pathways) begin or end at the toes. By stimulating these points, circulation throughout the entire body is believed to improve, helping restore balance, vitality, and overall well-being.









Think of yoga as prevention, not treatment.

Always stop just before the point where a stretch becomes painful. A gentle "feel-good" stretch is enough—there is no need to push beyond your limits. The goal is to care for your body, not to strain it.

If you've recently suffered an injury, such as an ankle sprain, or you're experiencing acute pain—such as a neck that can barely move—please skip yoga and allow your body to rest until you've recovered.

The word "Beauty" in Beauty Yoga represents something beyond appearance. True beauty begins with good health.

If your body is stiff, your mind is tense, and you're forcing yourself to dance while ignoring pain, the purpose of movement is lost.

I hope our yoga sessions at NADIA ONLINE become a place where you simply allow your body to soften—to let go, rather than push harder.

Light your favorite scented candle, settle into a comfortable space, and join us on Zoom in a relaxed state of mind.

If you're new to yoga, I highly recommend our Wednesday evening class.

During this gentle 90-minute session, we'll focus on mindful movement and lymphatic flow. You may even wake up on Thursday morning to find your face looking noticeably more refreshed and less puffy—and perhaps you'll smile a little more when you see yourself in the mirror.

I'd love for you to experience it for yourself.

Come and give it a try. 🤍







NADIA STUDIO – Singapore

NADIA's studio is located just one bus stop from Orchard Road, in the heart of Singapore.

Although it's conveniently close to the city center, stepping into the studio feels like entering a peaceful tropical oasis. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking a beautiful swimming pool, it offers a calm and inspiring space where you can immerse yourself in the joy of belly dance.

My wish is to provide every student with beautiful inspiration and a truly happy dance experience.

Children are welcome to accompany their mothers.

  • By reservation only

  • Women only

  • Small classes (approximately 10 students)

No registration fee.

Trial classes and drop-in lessons are always welcome.

Studio Schedule

Fridays & Saturdays

  • 10:00 AM – Foundations (60 min)

  • Followed by Choreography (60 min)

As a NADIA STUDIO member, you'll also have full access to all NADIA ONLINE classes, including Foundations, Choreography, and Yoga.

This means that if you're unable to attend the studio one week, you can easily catch up online or through the lesson videos, so you'll never fall behind.

Trial / Drop-in Class
SGD 35 (60 minutes)

Please feel free to contact me for more information.


2026 Term 4 (July–September)

Theme: Arabian Pops – "Badna Nroue & El Wawa"

Term Duration
July 19 (Sun) – September 28 (Mon), 2026

The choreography and foundations taught in the studio are exactly the same as those offered online.

Weekly Schedule

Studio Lessons

  • Twice a week (Friday & Saturday)

Online Lessons

  • Three times a week (Thursday, Sunday & Monday)

That's a total of five opportunities each week to learn the same choreography and technique.

You're welcome to attend as many classes as you like, on whichever days suit your schedule.

Studio lessons require advance reservation through our group chat, while online lessons require no reservation.

Even if you miss a class, you'll receive the lesson video, allowing you to learn the choreography at your own pace.

What's Included

  • Complete one full choreography over 8 weeks

  • Music track

  • 8 choreography videos

  • Unlimited access to:

    • Choreography classes

    • Foundations classes

    • Yoga classes

    • Studio & Online lessons

Fees

Unlimited Studio Membership (8 Weeks)
SGD 380

Includes unlimited access to all studio and online classes, choreography videos, foundations, yoga, and more.

Trial / Drop-in Lesson
SGD 35 (60 minutes)




  




About Nadia

Based in Singapore since 2005NADIA has been an internationally active professional belly dancer for more than 20 years.

She has performed in over 500 stage productions across the globe, appearing not only throughout Asia—including Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Taiwan—but also in Turkey, Egypt, Greece, Canada, Australia, Mexico, and many other countries.

Through performances, workshops, and intensive training programs, Nadia has taught more than 1,000 students of diverse nationalities. She offers bilingual instruction in both Japanese and English, conducting classes in her Singapore studio as well as online for students around the world.

Nadia is also a highly respected international competition judge. Many of her students have gone on to receive prestigious awards after studying her choreography and receiving her coaching, and each year she continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of dancers to achieve success on the international stage.

In addition to being an accomplished choreographer, Nadia has extensive knowledge of yoga anatomy and body mechanics, enabling her to explain movement with clarity, precision, and a strong emphasis on injury prevention.

Her teaching is suitable for every level—from complete beginners to professional performers—and includes private coaching for competitions, teacher training, choreography, artistic development, and professional consultation.

Whether you are taking your very first dance steps or preparing for the international stage, Nadia offers personalized guidance to help you reach your goals.

Please feel free to get in touch to discuss your learning journey.





NADIA ONLINE – Fees & Program

Membership

  • SGD 250 (2-month membership)

Trial / Drop-in

  • SGD 35 (60-minute class)

  • Payment is required by the day before the lesson.

Class Schedule

  • Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday

Classes Include

  • Belly Dance Foundations

  • Choreography

  • Yoga

Please Prepare

  • Yoga mat

  • Water bottle

  • Towel

What to Wear

  • Comfortable clothing suitable for movement (stretch pants, leggings, camisole, T-shirt, etc.)

  • A hip scarf is highly recommended, as it helps you see and understand your hip movements more clearly.


NADIA STUDIO – Fees & Program

Unlimited Membership

  • SGD 380 (2-month unlimited access)

  • Includes music files, online lessons, and choreography videos.

Trial / Drop-in

  • SGD 35 (60-minute class)

  • Payment is required by the day before the lesson.

Studio Schedule
Every Friday & Saturday

  • 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Foundations

  • 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Choreography

Classes Include

  • Belly Dance Foundations

  • Choreography

Please Prepare

  • Yoga mat

  • Water bottle

  • Towel

What to Wear

  • Comfortable workout clothes or yoga wear

  • Hip scarf

  • Classes are danced barefoot.

Location
A studio near Orchard Road, Singapore. The full address will be provided after registration.


Registration & Inquiries

Getting started is easy!

Simply send Nadia a message via Gmail, Instagram, WhatsApp, or Messenger.

Payment Methods

After your registration is confirmed, you'll be invited to our WhatsApp group, where you'll receive:

  • Zoom links

  • Class schedules and announcements

  • Music files

  • Choreography videos

  • Other lesson materials

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

I look forward to welcoming you and dancing together soon!

NADIA
suenadia@gmail.com



DANCE is the hidden language of the soul.