Thread: My student did her first gig with me!

I know we have a bunch of threads going on right now about teachers pushing students to go pro, or start performing, too early....but I have a happy story about when a student who is actually ready to perform is given the opportunity to do so!

I was booked for a jack and jill bridal shower tonight, and last week the client called and asked if I could get another bellydancer. Instead of asking one of my already-pro friends, I thought this would be the perfect opportuntiy for one of my intermediate/advanced students. This student has been with me for over 2 years, has performed in my student showcases, at nursing homes as a volunteer, and at student shows at a friends dance school - solo and with a group. She has also accompanied me on two gigs where I had a show plus lesson, and has helped with the lesson portion. She is not ready to do a complete show solo, because she doesn't have the prop experience yet (ie: sword) but I felt she was ready to perform along with me, and to finally make some money!!

We did a half hour show - two choreographed dances and the rest improv. The crowd went crazy, we made a bunch of tips, and my mom (who comes with me to almost every job) said we looked amazing together and my student did a GREAT job!! Everyone really loved the show and was having a blast. And my student loved it too!

I'm so excited and proud of her!! She did great (I knew she would) and she looked like a real pro out there!

Yay!..l;, ..g.:

Yay! for both of you!

what a great story Daniela, thanks for sharing :-)

WOW!! Sounds like you had so much fun.

Congratulations to both of you! So glad to hear it went well!

Good for you for providing performance opportunities in a way that is safe and appropriate for the individual student's level. Congratulations to you both!

Thank you everyone!

Daniela, its always awesome to hear of success stories!

What a boost to her confidence! Well done, to you both!

Originally Posted by laura 2

Good for you for providing performance opportunities in a way that is safe and appropriate for the individual student's level. Congratulations to you both!

I second Laura's post! ..g.:

I started gigging the same way, with my Mom as mentor; I think it is absolutely the best way to start, if it's at all possible!

Deborah