Thread: Restaurant Dancing -- what is a set?

Hello! What would consist of a set during a restaurant gig? Is that a specific amount of time? Thanks! ~Neena

Egyptian? Live band? Are you taping music? About 20 minutes is average...
Entrance, beledi, taxim/veil, maybe cane, drum solo, finale, exit .......

Oh thanks! I may sound naive, but would two sets mean, just double the time or two different routines?

Two sets = two routines. Many times you might do a costume change in between, and you should be paid separately for each set.

Yes! Two shows mean being paid for TWO shows. Bdance- do you have a good teacher or mentor in your area? There are SO many things to know and pitfalls to avoid. It's SO much easier with someone to help guide you.
Do you know rates in your area?

Neena,
Yes you will want to talk to someone in the area abotu this first. Also the amount of time depends on lots of things, mostly what the restaurant owner wants you to do. I woud either ask your instructor or talk to one of the dancers scheduled at the restaurant.
xoxo,
-NJ

I agree, have a mentor and buy Michelle's dvd series "Secrets of the stage" I and II. It will also help you understand a bit what to expect while performing in restaurants or parties. here's a link.
Cheeky Girls Productions - Instructional and Performance Belly Dance DVDs

DEFINITELY go out and find yourself a mentor. Not all teachers are 100% eager to help a fledgling pro, but the right one will.

My first teacher Adina was so amazing and generous to me as a baby-dancer. I went along with her on gigs. She taught me how to alter my costumes, put together sets, pick appropriate music/props for different venues, deal with hecklers, take tips, do my makeup, screen clients prior to gigs, and ask for the fair pay I deserve. Having her around as a mentor definitely eased the transition from student to pro (it can be a stressful time!) and made me more confident as a performer. I'm lucky to have had such a great influence on my dance career in its formative stages.

You might have to shop around a bit before you find an experienced teacher who will help you grow to your best potential, but it's so worth it!

It is SO important, Neena, that you make a GREAT first impression when dancing in the restaurant circuit, especially in a state like ours were restaurants are few and far between...you, literally, do not get a 2nd chance to make a first impression...
I live and work full time as a performer and instructor in NJ...you're welcome to bend my ear anytime...email me directly...I'm happy to assist!
Gia

Originally Posted by bdance

Hello! What would consist of a set during a restaurant gig? Is that a specific amount of time? Thanks! ~Neena

Definitely a mentor could help with this. There's a lot to know. Orientale sets are typically 20-25 minutes and have specific components depending on your style (such as an intro and finale). Tribal/tribal fusion sets are usually shorter... 10-15 minutes.

Yasmin's CD booklet in "Dancing with the Genies" has some articles about typical Egyptian, Turkish, Lebanese, and American cabaret sets. It also has two complete sets. I highly recommend getting a copy of the CD. (www.serpentine.org)

You all ARE my mentors! I learn so much from you all. I am doing my best in learning on my own for the past two years. There is sooooo much to learn, you are right! My teacher does not perform professionally. She teaches and performs only for non-profit with a group and does not like to perform in restaurants. She is a lovely woman and has helped me immensely in many other ways, but she is not able to help me with this one! Thank you all. Gia, I have met you a couple of times now and watched your performances. I love your character, dance and expression! I actually drove with Genasis Apple to your performance at Marakesh in Parsippany.....had an awesome time watching you all.....beautiful!
Ladies, thank you for your advice. ~Neena

Originally Posted by bdance

You all ARE my mentors! I learn so much from you all. I am doing my best in learning on my own for the past two years. There is sooooo much to learn, you are right! My teacher does not perform professionally. She teaches and performs only for non-profit with a group and does not like to perform in restaurants. She is a lovely woman and has helped me immensely in many other ways, but she is not able to help me with this one! Thank you all. Gia, I have met you a couple of times now and watched your performances. I love your character, dance and expression! I actually drove with Genasis Apple to your performance at Marakesh in Parsippany.....had an awesome time watching you all.....beautiful!
Ladies, thank you for your advice. ~Neena

Neena,
I thought that I might have met you but didn't recognise your name! I'm so glad that we've connected here and I am VERY happy to help you!
As a matter of fact...I will be at the show on the 22nd if you want to talk in person!
I cannot stress strongly enough the need for a GOOD education with regard not only to dancing, but to teaching and performing BEFORE you make yourself available to students and potential employers. A teacher who has never performed professionally may not be the best person to help you with your teaching and performing goals. I studied with dozens of teachers before I began performing and started teaching in one of my teacher's studios by her request before I began my life as a teacher...don't rush...find the BEST teacher with whom to study (even if you must travel to do so!) and be the best that you can be!!! You will sustain your dance goals FAR longer by doing so!
Gia