Booking:  What to Expect When Hiring A Belly Dancer

Standard pricing for hiring a belly dancer should be the same within each region, however you may encounter variances depending on length in time a dancer has been dancing, experience and skill. There are no two dancers alike.  You can easily be delighted with many belly dancers although each dancer has a different stage presence and style of dance.  While videos provide a good deal of information on a dancer's style, they don't compare to a live performance. 

Please review this form to give you some idea of what to expect when hiring a belly dancer and to help you decide what you would like.

A Planning Meeting will usually be held over the telephone or by email.

The following points and questions will get you started. After you’ve completed the form, and return to me by email, I will review it and contact you within 1 to 2 business days.  At that time, we will discuss your responses, concerns and fees.
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• Dance Area – Please provide a clear and well-defined area in which to perform, preferably at least 6 by 4 feet.  Please describe or be prepared to discuss the space available for dancing, i.e., between tables approximately X feet apart from each other, a stage approximately X feet from the ground, ground level with the audience, minimal space in front a special person(s), a combination of these….  Keep in mind that a larger dance area would give your audience a better view. 
• Sound System – Sound equipment will be provided. However, your sound system will be used if preferred.
• Dressing Area – A private and secure dressing area is required to change in and out of costumes (if required), and to store belongings. A water bottle and at least one mirror is essential. If a change of costumes is required, please have at least two water bottles available.
• Showing Appreciation – It is okay to clap with the music, watch attentively and encouraging your guests to do the same. This will make the evening more memorable. Tipping the dancer by showering her with bills is authentic, dignified and highly appreciated.
• Location – Extra cost for travel time if the location of the event is at least 30 minutes round trip outside of central Austin city limits.
  
  Suggested Packages: 
  
  Belly Gram
  This is roughly a 5-6 minute solo performance with a photo opportunity afterwards. The Belly Gram is a perfect surprise birthday gift in a social arena. 
  
  Ladies Party
  Ladies, celebrate Ladies Day/Night with a Party, Bachelorette or Baby Shower – This includes a 5-6 minute performance with a mini lesson for all the ladies and opportunity to perform (about 30 minutes)  
  
  For additional costs, a hip scarf with coins can be provided for each lady. 
  
  Classic Belly Dance Performance
  This is a 15-20 minute performance to Middle Eastern music with finger cymbals, veil, sword or other props as requested. The dance will include performing with or without props and end with a drum solo. After the performance, the guest of honor or all guests will be invited to get up and participate in dancing. A photo opportunity is available for the guest of honor. 
  
  
  For longer performances and/or staggered shows, rates can be arranged by the hour or by day. 
  
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  Answering the following questions will help to determine which package you’re looking for.
   
• Type of dance: Both parties must be in agreement with dance preference for audience.
• Props desired: Finger Cymbals, Sword, Veil and other props, etc. will be discussed.
• How long to dance (more than one 5 to 20 minute set) (? Hours)
• Change of costume desired                                                                                 Yes / No
• Engage with guest of honor/audience to participate in dancing?                         Yes / No
• Give a 20-25 minute lesson followed by group dance participation                     Yes / No
• List Special Requests:
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  A belly dancer puts the same amount of effort and time in preparation regardless of the length of the performance. However, the length of the performance and changing of costumes affects the amount of the fees charged. Remember, you are hiring a professional and you should expect professionalism from the dancer. Please have respect for her time. Extra if dancer has to wait 25 minuites or more beyond agreed schedule to perform.
  
  Thank you for your consideration. 
  
  Ms. Roberta
  
  
  Click here to contact Ms. Roberta for a Booking