Shimmy in Bloom Bellydance Workshops in Atlanta, GA

FatChanceBellyDance®Style (also known as American Tribal Style or ATS) is a group improvisational dance form created by Carolena Nericcio. Dancers use a shared vocabulary of movements and visual cues to create choreography together in real-time - no planning required! It's like having a conversation through dance, and it builds incredible skills in musicality, quick decision-making, and stage presence.

FCBD®Style differs from cabaret and folkloric belly dance in several key ways. It's performed in groups rather than solo, uses improvisation rather than choreography, and employs a specific aesthetic with lifted posture, precise arm pathways, and grounded movements. The dance vocabulary includes movements from North Indian dance, flamenco, and Middle Eastern dance, blended into a unique American form. Unlike cabaret belly dance which often features elaborate costumes and props, FCBD® focuses on the connection between dancers and the music.

Absolutely! In Bloom welcomes dancers of all experience levels. Whether you’re brand new to FatChanceBellyDance®  Style (FCBD) or experienced in other styles, you’ll find a supportive, encouraging environment. Each session will include movement breakdowns and guidance for all levels.

Absolutely! The skills you'll develop in this workshop - musicality, improvisation, posture, and presence - are fundamental to all dance forms. Many cabaret, folkloric, and fusion dancers find that ATS training transforms their technique, confidence, and stage presence across every style they perform.

All workshops will take place at Atlanta Fusion Bellydance in Chamblee, GA located at 5522 New Peachtree Road Suite 111, Chamblee, GA 30341

The full workshop schedule and topics will be announced closer to the event. You can expect a mix of foundational technique sessions and advanced concept classes designed to expand your creativity, connection, and performance skills.

Yes! There will be a performance showcase as part of the weekend on 3/28 at The Redlight Cafe. Applications to perform will open in the new year. Both soloists and groups are welcome to apply — stay tuned for details and submission dates.

FCCE stands for Fat Chance Continuing Education. An FCCE instructor like Liz Malcom has committed to annual intensive training directly with Carolena Nericcio, the creator of FatChanceBellyDance®Style. This ongoing education ensures FCCE instructors maintain the highest standards of technique and teaching methodology. There are only a handful of FCCE instructors worldwide, making training opportunities with them rare and valuable. FCCE instructors can also provide official credits to Partner Studios within the FCBD® network.