Southern Sway Belly Dance with Apryl Grace

Dance for every body!

It’s How We Sway in the South – Rooted in Rhythm, Grounded in Wellness

Apryl Grace Dancer • Movement Teacher • Creative Spirit & Festival Weaver

Belly dancing is one of my passions, and I’m always looking forward to new connections, collaborations, and opportunities. Let’s create something amazing together. – Apryl Grace

About Me – Apryl Grace
Founder of Southern Sway Belly Dance | Director of Southern Raqs Festival

Moving to St. Marys has been an incredible journey filled with growth, connection, and inspiration. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to share the art of belly dance with this amazing community, creating a space where people of all backgrounds and body types can come together to express themselves, build confidence, and celebrate the joy of movement. My classes are open to every body.

My journey with belly dance began in 2001 as a personal pursuit of wellness, and it quickly blossomed into a lifelong passion. By 2004, I had relocated to Saint Lucie County, Florida, where I joined Yvonne’s School of Dance, a studio known for its diverse training and creative spirit. Under the expert guidance of Yvonne, I deepened my technique, gained invaluable performance experience, and discovered the power of dance to transform lives. I’m proud to still call myself her student to this day.

I began training to teach in 2008 and officially started teaching in 2010. Since then, I’ve continued to grow both as a performer and an educator, earning certifications in several foundational styles:

  • FCBD®Style (formerly ATS®): Certified GS, TT1, TT2, and Sister Studio through FatChanceBellyDance®, developed by Carolena Nericcio-Bohlman.
  • Suhaila Salimpour Format – Certified Level 1
  • Jamila Salimpour Format – Certified Level 2

I’ve had the honor of performing with several amazing groups, including Forces of Nature Tribal Dance Troupe (which I direct), Yvonne’s School of Dance, Florida Salimpour Collective, and Hips of Destruction. These experiences have allowed me to explore different styles, collaborate with incredible dancers, and share my love of this art form across the Southeast.

After more than 15 years working behind the scenes at dance festivals and community events, I’m thrilled to bring a longtime vision to life with the launch of the Southern Raqs Festival in 2025. This festival is a true reflection of everything I love community, creativity, wellness, and dance and I can’t wait to share it with you.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s dance, connect, and grow together.

Apryl Grace