Maria “Naja” Richardson is a dance performer, choreographer and instructor who is also a founding member of the belly dance troupe, Manhattan Tribal of NYC. Maria worked as an instructor at SharonFit Studio in Cranford, and when the owner was leaving she asked Maria to take over. Maria was excited to have the opportunity to form her own studio, and Hamsa Dance and Fitness was born.
Currently, Hamsa’s classes are all virtual so Maria and her instructors worked hard to implement new technology making it so teachers can provide an engaging and worthwhile experience for students. Maria has found that many people are looking for fun, indoor exercise options. The studio offers lower impact options, such as belly dancing, as well as yoga, Zumba, boot camp, and line dancing. Hamsa’s instructors are well known and come with their own following.
“We really view the studio as having options for everyone,” said Maria. “In the spring, we’re hoping to have an outdoor performance. We want our students to have something to strive for.”
Hamsa Dance and Fitness is located at 29 Alden Street. Its website, https://www.hamsadancefitness.com, offers an overview of classes, as well as the instructors and schedule. On February 6, the studio will be hosting a Sugar and Spice Burlesque Workshop, which is currently open for registration.
The Downtown Cranford office recently held a ribbon cutting to welcome Hamsa Dance and Fitness to the business community. The ribbon cutting was attended by DMC Board President Kristen Mider, Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty, landlord Gary Goodman, Deputy Mayor Brian Andrews, and Acting DMC Director Caren Demyen.
Hamsa Dance & Fitness
29 Alden Street
646-389-3119