Frequently Asked Questions
What makes you different from other belly dancers in Orlando?
First, let’s be real – there are some wonderful belly dancers in Orlando, many of whom are actually my friends. It’s an honor to be one of the more popular performers here in the entertainment capital of America! One thing that sets me apart from a lot of people in showbiz is my core philosophy that every client is my friend. It’s never been about the limelight or the applause or the backstage selfies for me. It’s always been about making people happy. From my custom-crafted shows to the memories we make on the dance floor, I will treat your event as if it was my own family’s special occasion, giving it the love and respect it deserves. After all, it takes a lot more than beautiful costumes and great dancing to make a memorable show. Your guests will always remember how the dancer made them feel, and that comes from the heart!
How long is your typical belly dance show?
Most of my clients go for the Classic Show, a complete set up to 25 minutes in length. (My total time on the dance floor is actually closer to 40 minutes as I often spend around 10-15 mins with your guests taking pictures after the show). The Classic Show is a great option because it gives guests the complete experience without overpowering your event and taking attention away from all the other fun activities or entertainment you have planned. (You don’t need a dancer at your event all night to make an impact. In fact less is usually more!) If you want to make entertainment the focal point of your event, the Ultimate Show (2 20-minute sets with a costume change) is a nice way to fill a longer block of time. You can check out my Booking page for all show options, or give me a call and we’ll create something special just for you!
Do your shows include audience participation?
Audience participation is my favorite part of every show! Not only is it lots of fun, but it’s totally authentic to the way belly dancers perform in the Middle East. Every audience has a different energy, whether it’s a bachelorette party where everybody’s getting silly or a corporate function where the group is a bit reserved. Through the years, I’ve developed a knack for reading the room and matching my level of interactivity to the crowd’s. If you’d prefer a “minimally invasive” approach, please let me know in advance so I can plan my playlist accordingly.
Is belly dance appropriate for audiences of all ages?
Absolutely! Belly dance comes from traditional folk dances that are done by men, women and children at weddings and family celebrations throughout the Middle East. Kids are my biggest fans and they love getting up to dance with “The Princess” or admiring from afar! Unfortunately, belly dance can get a bad rap due to the media and untrained local dancers who perpetuate the myth that belly dance is for the 18+ crowd. Always do your homework and make sure you’ve hired a reputable pro and not a bargain basement performer who could possibly embarrass you in front of your guests.
Do you carry liability insurance?
Of course! While my act itself is very low-risk with no fire or hazardous props, I am insured for up to $1,000,000 and can provide proof of insurance or special named certificates if you or your venue request it.
How do I book you?
Please call (407) 505-5864 or E-mail Me so we can discuss the details of your event. If I’m free, I’ll ask that you sign a performance agreement and send a non-refundable $100 retainer to hold the date. Once I get this from you, we’re all set!
How far in advance should I book you?
My recommendation is that you hire a belly dancer at least 2 weeks out. This will ensure availability and allow ample time to prepare your show. For weddings and large corporate events, it’s best to play it safe by booking 3-6 months out – especially if your event takes place during the busy spring, fall, or Christmas season.
Can you work with additional dancers if we want more than one?
Absolutely! You probably don’t need more than one dancer as long as you hire a proficient soloist who knows how to work a room. However, a duet or trio can be a good choice for events in spaces larger than a hotel ballroom, or if you simply like the look of a larger dance group. If you hire me for a duet, trio or other ensemble show, I will personally select beautiful, professional performers at an equal or higher skill level than myself, and act as the main point of contact for all belly dance talent leading up to the show.
What type of music do you dance to? Do you take special requests?
My music playlists range from traditional to non-traditional, and are tailor-made for you. Want classical Egyptian music? I’ll bring on the Oum K. Want a Bollywood and hip hop fusion? You’ve got it. A little bit of Shakira for your familia? My hips don’t lie. I’m a big music geek, appreciate all world genres from saidi to soca, and will dance to anything that gets your guests moving on the dance floor!
Is tipping appropriate?
While tipping is not required, it is greatly appreciated and can add an element of interactive fun! In many parts of the Middle East, tipping the belly dancer is said to symbolize good luck to the newlyweds or the Guest of Honor. The most common way to tip a belly dancer is to throw bills over her head in a money shower (aka “making it rain”) or to discretely tuck a folded bill into the dancer’s arm bands or the side of her belt. If you prefer, you may simply hand me my tip or add it to my balance payment. For more tipping etiquette and traditions, check out my article Hot Tips on Tipping.
Do you perform at bachelor parties?
I don’t do bachelor parties, private one-on-one dances, or any type of event where the audience consists entirely of men. Nor do I perform at venues like strip clubs that regularly feature adult entertainment. This is for personal safety reasons and also to preserve the artistic and cultural integrity of my craft.
Are you the dancer who will perform at my event?
Let’s face it….nobody wants to get catfished by their entertainment. If you like what you see on my website and social media, then you’ll love what you’re going to get at your event! One thing that makes me unique is that I’m a professional one-woman show and not a school, troupe or agency that contracts out performers of mixed skill levels for events. (If a dance company advertises on their website that they’re scouting new talent with no belly dance experience necessary….or if their portfolio features stock images with a Shutterstock watermark rather than actual local talent….then this should tell you everything you need to know)! When you book me, you will work with one highly experienced performer who handles all the details of your event with care from the initial call to the moment I take the stage. This guarantees peace of mind – no bait and switch, no third-party miscommunications, and no amateur performers who will use your once-in-a-lifetime event as on-the-job training. The only surprises at your event will be the good kind!
Do you offer belly dance classes?
I am strictly a performer and don’t own a dance studio or teach belly dance classes.
Why do you charge more than other belly dancers in Orlando?
Plain and simple, professional belly dancers charge professional rates. While you don’t have to hire the most expensive belly dancer in Orlando to get the best performer for your event, you can expect to pay anywhere between $300-350 if you want a professional quality show. My prices reflect quality, preparation and over 15 years of special event expertise, and I consistently earn 5-star ratings in service, satisfaction and overall value. (Just read my online reviews!) If price is your only consideration, there are countless amateur belly dancers who will show up and shimmy at a bargain price. But something tells me that if you’re on my website and you’ve made it this far, you’re looking for a dancer who can entertain and not just look cute for a photo op. If you’re looking for an experienced professional who knows how to engage the crowd, honor your cultural traditions, make adjustments on the fly, and give your loved ones an amazing experience, you’re in great hands and I have the reputation to prove it. (Just read my online reviews or ask any of your wedding vendors about me!) For more on this subject, check out my popular article “Would You Like to Hire a Free Belly Dancer?”