The 5-part show, sometimes referred to as a “full set,” “professional show,” or other similar term is a universal option all professional dancers offer to their clients.
Since professional dancers are hired by the set rather than by the hour, we have devised this show to provide the best balance of variety, entertainment, and time. Trust me, you really wouldn’t want a dancer for an hour anyway – like fine wine, bellydance performances are best enjoyed when “sipped” instead of mindlessly guzzled.
Let us begin the show!
The Entrance or Magency – Big and orchestral, this piece announces “Ladies and gentlemen, the dancer has arrived.” It is an entrance, an opportunity for the dancer to introduce herself to the audience, and a small preview for the rest of the show. The musical arrangement for entrance pieces transitions through several different moods and rhythms – most if not all which will reappear later in the set. Oftentimes dancers will enter with a veil or isis wings (if space allows) and zills (aka – finger cymbals). Either or both may be used throughout the entire piece or just in certain sections.
Impress your friends hint: A dancer performing in the Egyptian style will usually only use the veil or wings for a short time before discarding while a dancer performing in the Turkish, Lebanese, or American styles is more likely to use it throughout the entire song.
2. For the second song, many dancers will show off their technical skill and wow the audience by including some sort of prop – sword, fire tray, and veil are all common options. Depending on style and audience, the dancer may also forgo a prop altogether and instead express the nuances of a soulful taqsim (improvisational instrumental solo).
3. Since the second song is usually a little slower in tempo, the third piece is upbeat and can be either a modern folkloric-inspired song or a current chart-topper in the Arabic music world.
The hand-clapping beats and up-tempo rhythms builds energy for…
4. The DRUM SOLO! A crowd favorite, the drum solo is a high energy piece featuring music created exclusively with percussion instruments. It’s fun, playful, and usually has a few audience members shimmying along in their seats.
5. Since it’s impossible to sit still through all the amazing music – the last song is for you! Dancers refer to this as the “audience participation” piece where we invite audience members to join us on the floor and show off their shimmies. This song is a great photo opportunity! Designate a friend or two to take pictures or give your event photographer notice to have cameras at the ready.
Dancer tip: Don’t try to embarrass anyone to get up and dance – it’s not fun for anyone and it is totally unnecessary. There are always fun-loving audience members who want to get up and show off their moves!
With a swirl and a smile, the exit music cues the dancer’s departure – leaving fond memories and smiles all around… at least until the next special event.
