Thread: Is it okay

I'm looking around at studios to teach at and some of them already have belly dance teachers. Though I am teaching a different style and focusing on cardio is it okay to rent there too? Should I get in touch with the dancer and let her know?

I think it would be a good idea to get in touch with the bellydance teachers who are already teaching there. That way you can talk over with them how your classes might complement each other, and how your activities could support each other.

It's much better to approach them directly before approaching the venue. Some venues will be very loyal to their established teacher, in which case you would need the established teacher's help to get started there.

Some venues don't give a crap about their established teachers in which case you are still better to talk to the teacher first so as to avoid getting a rep for undercutting or poaching in your community.

Consider that these teachers will have invested a lot of time, $$ and effort into building up a student base for their venue ... you could be misconstrued as trying to take advantage of their work. So do have a friendly chat with them before speaking with the venue.

I second Jilyan's advice

Thanks. I will.