%FAQ's%
- I like the idea of having a belly dancer at my wedding, but I am not sure how to incorporate this entertainment into my festivities. How could I go about doing that?
This is one of my favorite questions to be asked! Why? Because there are so many ways to incorporate Middle Eastern dance entertainment into the dynamic of your wedding! I most commonly suggest a formal show right after dinner is cleared. Your guests have been fed and are in their seats, poised and ready for entertainment. If you aren't keen on having entertainment during your reception, consider hosting a dancer during your cocktail hour. The dancer can entertain with a fun interactive show; mingling with your guests, maybe teach them a few dance moves all while you pose for photographs. If you would like something more traditional, consider hiring a belly dancer to perform a zaffa. In this traditional Middle Eastern processional dance, the belly dancer carries a candelabra on her head to light the way for the bride and groom as they enter the reception. This is an easy, natural way to incorporate Middle Eastern dance entertainment into your wedding. If you aren't sure about having a belly dancer at your actual wedding, consider hiring one for your wedding shower or bachelorette party. Some of my favorite parties to entertain at, showers and bachelorette parties are all about relaxation and fun. Whatever option works best for you, incorporating a Middle Eastern dancer into your wedding festivities is a great way to get the party started!
- What does your show consist of?
- What does your show consist of?
My performance style is a collaboration of Middle Eastern dance elements with an emphasis on Egyptian movement. I incorporate the use of props such as Isis wings, finger cymbals (zills, zagats), veil or fan veils, cane (assaya), sword and candle tray(venue permitting). My music collection includes Middle Eastern classics as well as contemporary and pop favorites. In order to ensure the most engaging Middle Eastern dance experience possible, I prefer to keep western dance elements out of my performance.
- There seem to be so many dancers to choose from. What makes you stand out in the crowd?
Quality! I am an experienced entertainer who's goal is to provide exciting, elegant, sophisticated shows free of cheesy shtick. I am regularly invited to attend master classes and workshops taught by the communities most esteemed artists. I take much pride in honing my craft, always striving to learn more and dance better. I ensure my clients the highest standards of Middle Eastern dance entertainment, and I never let them down!
- There will be children at this event, are your shows appropriate?
Absolutely! In the Middle East, this art is passed down through generations to both young girls and boys. When booking with me you will be ensured a professional and family-friendly show. In fact, children are usually the best audience members...eager to get up and dance and always asking for photos after the show!
- How does tipping work?
Tips are gratuitous, they are additional and are always very much appreciated, however, they are never required. Tipping can be done either during the performance, or incorporated into the event payment. When tipping during a show, I gracefully request tips to be showered over my head.
- May I make any special requests?
Considering all my shows are customized for each client, I am happy to honor most special requests with-in reason. If you have any requests regarding music, prop work, costume color, performance style or anything else you might think of please inform me during our initial booking conversation and I will do my best to accommodate your request. My motto is "you're unique, your event is unique, your entertainment should be uniquely you!"
- I have spoken with other dancers and there are some who offer a cheaper price for a similar show. Are your prices negotiable?
Typically no. Each show is customized to your specific needs and I take
painstaking care to ensure complete client satisfaction. If you have a strict budget, please inform me during our initial booking conversation. I am more than willing to do my best to
accommodate your needs.
- May I book more than one dancer or a live band?
Yes. If you are interested in hiring more than one dancer or live musicians to perform at your event please inform me during our initial booking conversation. I do have an extensive network of high quality entertainers and will do my best to satisfy your request. However, there will of course be a charge for any additional entertainer booked.
- May I take photos and video during your performance?
Why certainly! This is your event and you are free to take as many photos and video as you like. If I am not booked for another engagement, I am more than happy to pose for photos after your show. I love being able to share happy memories with happy clients, so please, feel free to share your photos and videos with me as well!
- Do you perform publicly? Where can I see you dance?
I am currently the house dancer at the renowned Marakesh Restaurant in Parsippany, NJ. Show time is every Saturday night at 10 pm. For restaurant information: http://www.marakesh.com/
- Do you teach classes?
Yes I do. I teach regular classes at:
European School of Dance, Fords, New Jersey on Saturday afternoons 3:00 - 4:00 pm
www.europeanschoolofdance.com
Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick Campus
I am also available for private and semi-private lessons (by advance appointment only). Please contact me for availability and bookings.
- What is the best way of contacting you?
Either email or phone are perfectly fine. If I do not answer your call, please leave a voice mail. I will return your call within the half hour.
- Is your sword real?
Why yes, yes it is!