Professional Belly Dancing - Is It For You?

A professional belly dancer at work.

It's a new year and this is the year that you are considering becoming a professional belly dancer. Is it for you?

First and foremost have you decided if you wish to become a professional entertainer, a teacher or both?

Do you wish to work part-tie or full time? From experience I can tell you that you will need to supplement your income in either choice unless you have a large financial cushion which allows you to not worry about an income. 

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​I am assuming that you have taken belly dancing lessons from several instructors, attended seminars and workshops, and have experiences in teaching and performing. The following guide will introduce teacher responsibilities. 

1. Mobile or rental location of a dance studio
2. Business knowledge or staff to maintain advertising, marketing, show bookings, and other office requirements and maintenance
3. Communication abilities
4. Setting up a teaching program and class schedules
5. Research
6. Organization skills
7. Creating choreography
8. Setting-up public workshops and shows
9. Training or hiring other instructors

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As a performer these tools will need to be considered:

1. Ongoing practicing and rehearsing to develop skills in order to offer exciting performances.
2. Have thorough savvy public relations, advertising, and marketing skills
3. Theater and acting skills
4. Psychology of entertaining
5. Ongoing list of performing environments
6. Costuming, music, and props

Stage performances are available, but not as numerous as working in restaurants and private parties.

The outlets for making money with your dancing will include:

Working in restaurants
Private parties e.g. weddings
Corporate events
Product Promotions
Some stage performances - workshops and seminars
Paid community events
A few non-profit organizations

Non-profit organizations usually request free entertainment. These outlets offer advertising as payment as their funds are low, Choose non-profit organizations wisely. 

Show business is just that...a business and money must follow your performances. 

Record anticipated expenses, competitive pricing, and personal income in order to determine performing rates.   

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It is important that instructors let their students perform in order to show off what has been taught to them.

Whether you choose to be an instructor, performer, or both it will be necessary that you are able to attract many potential clients.

In addition to knowledge and experiences communication skills, charisma, and an enthusiastic personality supported with common sense are necessary ingredients to add to the success mix. 

Click for more information. 

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