Approved Instructor
Please note that I do not (ever) perform for all male groups or for stag parties.
All images on this site are by my husband and are copyright of www.markhurdphotography.co.uk. If you need portrait photos (he does "digital cosmetic surgery", too), event photos or have other photographic requirements please visit his website.
Are you planning a Middle Eastern themed party?
Why not surprise your guests by having a belly dancer?
I'm not just a dancer - I'm a dance animateur!
If I can't break the ice and get your guests dancing then I doubt if anyone could!
What to expect
My performances are all family friendly, I don't wear seven veils. You can safely invite your mother and the children and I NEVER dance for all male groups.
Most events are subject to an individual plan based on your requirements. I will discuss this with you by phone and agree a plan which I will confirm to you by email or through the post. When this is agreed I may ask for a deposit to confirm the booking. Private parties usually require a deposit.
Music
I have many tens of gygabytes of music from the Middle East and elsewhere that is suitable for Middle Eastern dancing. I will need to know in advance what kind of sound system is available so I know whether my iPod will be suitable or if I need to burn my music playlist onto a CD. If you are hiring a DJ to provide music or using the sound system at your venue I will be happy to liase with them if you give me their contact information.
Important information
When the time arrives for me to perform I will be ready to boogie. It is important that you are ready for me, too. Please bear in mind that I may have another booking to go to after yours and it may not be possible for me to delay my performance and still give you the time you are paying for. IF I do not have another booking to go to I may be willing to stay on on the understanding that additional time will be charged in 30 minute increments and that if I am unable to dance because you are not ready for me, then I am still due my full fee.
For a one hour booking I normally perform for a "set" of about 10 minutes before taking a 15 minute break to change costumes. I will then dance for a second 10 minute set and then teach and lead volunteers from the audience in Egyptian style dance. If you would like a different programme please discuss this with me in advance. Bookings of 2 hours or more allow for a lot more scope.
Please note that any inappropriate behaviour by members of your group may lead me to terminate my dancing. YOU are responsible for the behaviour of your guests and in the unlikely event that this happens you will still be liable for my full fee.
See also Prices, terms and conditions
Other information
My husband attends all functions of this type with me as my "porter" and general assistant. He usually brings his camera along too and with your permission will take photos for promotional purposes. He will, if requested provide copies of all the best photos to you on a CD, for a nominal charge
Tipping
There is a very excellent tradition in the Middle East of tipping the belly dancer by politely standing or dancing beside her and placing paper currency under the shoulder straps of her dress or in the waist band of her hip scarf (never in her bra cups or with inappropriate touching), or even showering her with paper currency. I think this is an excellent tradition and allows the audience to show their appreciation in a material way. Should any of your guests wish to take this tradition on board they should watch this Youtube video clip to see how it should be done.
(This last paragraph was written by my husband/webmaster who found the Youtube link - he thinks it's funny.)
Why not surprise your guests by having a belly dancer?
I'm not just a dancer - I'm a dance animateur!
If I can't break the ice and get your guests dancing then I doubt if anyone could!
What to expect
My performances are all family friendly, I don't wear seven veils. You can safely invite your mother and the children and I NEVER dance for all male groups.
Most events are subject to an individual plan based on your requirements. I will discuss this with you by phone and agree a plan which I will confirm to you by email or through the post. When this is agreed I may ask for a deposit to confirm the booking. Private parties usually require a deposit.
Music
I have many tens of gygabytes of music from the Middle East and elsewhere that is suitable for Middle Eastern dancing. I will need to know in advance what kind of sound system is available so I know whether my iPod will be suitable or if I need to burn my music playlist onto a CD. If you are hiring a DJ to provide music or using the sound system at your venue I will be happy to liase with them if you give me their contact information.
Important information
When the time arrives for me to perform I will be ready to boogie. It is important that you are ready for me, too. Please bear in mind that I may have another booking to go to after yours and it may not be possible for me to delay my performance and still give you the time you are paying for. IF I do not have another booking to go to I may be willing to stay on on the understanding that additional time will be charged in 30 minute increments and that if I am unable to dance because you are not ready for me, then I am still due my full fee.
For a one hour booking I normally perform for a "set" of about 10 minutes before taking a 15 minute break to change costumes. I will then dance for a second 10 minute set and then teach and lead volunteers from the audience in Egyptian style dance. If you would like a different programme please discuss this with me in advance. Bookings of 2 hours or more allow for a lot more scope.
Please note that any inappropriate behaviour by members of your group may lead me to terminate my dancing. YOU are responsible for the behaviour of your guests and in the unlikely event that this happens you will still be liable for my full fee.
See also Prices, terms and conditions
Other information
My husband attends all functions of this type with me as my "porter" and general assistant. He usually brings his camera along too and with your permission will take photos for promotional purposes. He will, if requested provide copies of all the best photos to you on a CD, for a nominal charge
Tipping
There is a very excellent tradition in the Middle East of tipping the belly dancer by politely standing or dancing beside her and placing paper currency under the shoulder straps of her dress or in the waist band of her hip scarf (never in her bra cups or with inappropriate touching), or even showering her with paper currency. I think this is an excellent tradition and allows the audience to show their appreciation in a material way. Should any of your guests wish to take this tradition on board they should watch this Youtube video clip to see how it should be done.
(This last paragraph was written by my husband/webmaster who found the Youtube link - he thinks it's funny.)
