Maria Palacio

Maria is the owner, artistic director and teaches Raqs Sharqi and Flamenco at Alegria.  Maria is a certified instructor in both Datura Style and American Tribal Style® (ATS®) bellydance, having earned her ATS® certification in 2011 and her Datura Style certification in 2023. Her teaching also draws from the Salimpour Format, the foundational system behind many modern fusion styles. She has studied the Suhaila Salimpour format for over a decade, deepening her understanding of both technique and cultural context.

With over 20 years of experience in these dance styles and their histories, Maria offers students a comprehensive approach—grounding each movement in strong technique, musicality, and cultural awareness. Her classes provide not just choreography, but a full appreciation of the art form’s roots and evolution.