Thread: Ethics for bellygrams ect.

Hi Ladies
I have been dancing for about 6yrs. 1yr of performing. I want to offer bellygrams, birthday parties etc. Are there any books or websites that I can get extensive advise on what not to do at other cultural events? I do not want to offend anyone. I did ask a dancer I trust but she was hesitant about giving me any information, for what ever reason. I don't think it's because I'm not ready. She did say as much "I think you are ready, you are great." I would also like to know how to find companies{agents} who provide there service to book the jobs for you. I have searched under talent agencies, dance agencies but I'm not coming up with much.

I appreciate your help

What kind of cultures are you specifically talking about? Middle Eastern, Asian...? You should really talk to your teacher and see what the norm is for your area.

As for agencies, I've never tried it but I think some dancers have worked through entertainment agencies that do singing telegrams and clowns...the name of these agencies is on the tip of my tongue but it's too early for me this morning to even think straight..g.:

She might not've responded because it's a BIG question. There are lots of right answers. It depends on who your audience is. Even within ethnicities, different things will offend different age groups and sexes I think.

I'm wondering abouth the Arabic culture. Say what if I'm asked to perform at a wedding or birthday party. What about Morocan culture. What do I not do?
Appreciate the help.

There really IS so much.
The first thing I'd say is know the music you're dancing to. If it's an instrumental version, find out if it has an original with lyrics. Then find out what the lyrics are about. This simple step will help you avoid things like dancing to a call to prayer or dancing to a funeral dirge at a wedding (both are things I've heard have been done).
Find a mentor if possible.
Look for professionalism workshops if possible. Artemis teaches a fantastic one.
Shira.net has lots of resources on professionalism. I have links on my site here:
http://www.samirashuruk.com/performi...sionalism.html
http://www.samirashuruk.com/standard...uidelines.html

Thank you so much SamiraShuruk! Yes I am also looking into taking a workshop in my area just waiting for an okay from the teachers.