Thinking of hiring an ensemble of Middle Eastern dancers? Great! This page offers some guidelines on some of the aspects of hiring a dancer and/or an ensemble of dancers. Rates are dependent on several factors, including: length of performance, number of sets, total amount of time at event, costume changes, location of event, travel expenses (outside of local area), and number of dancers. A typical scenario entails one dancer performing a 10 minute set for $175.

Please call 512-924-RAKS or email sabaya@sabayabellydance.com

What to Do and What to Expect When Hiring a Belly Dancer...

Dance Area
Provide the dancer a clean and well-defined area in which to perform, preferably at least 6 by 4 feet. If more than one dancer is performing, a raised stage or bigger dance area gives the audience a better view. 

Dressing Area
A private and secure dressing area is required to change in and out of costumes and store belongings. 

Stereo System
A quality stereo system with a CD player will enhance the music and performance significantly. Logistically, it is best if the stereo and speakers are in the same room as the performance.

Showing Appreciation
Clapping with the music, watching attentively and encouraging your guests to do the same will make the evening more memorable. If guests wish to tip the dancer, showering her with bills is infinitely more authentic and dignified than stuffing money into her costume.

Respect the Schedule
Be considerate of the dancers’ time, as they may have another engagement on the same night. The show should begin within 30 minutes of the originally scheduled time. Every additional 15 minutes over the scheduled start time adds $25 to the rate.

Enjoy the Show
Once the show begins, sit back, relax and enjoy! If it is appropriate and the dancer chooses to do so, she will select someone to dance with her. Please do not urge anyone to dance with her if they have not been invited. If the performance is in honor of a special person, point out the special guest to the dancer before the performance.

Family Friendly
Sabaya members provide time-honored, family friendly entertainment. Recommended occasions for hiring a dancer/dancers are dinner soirees, bridal showers, holiday, birthday and themed parties, nightclub and theater shows, weddings, Bar or Bat Mitzvahs, festivals, fundraisers and corporate events. Sabaya and its members do not perform at bachelor parties, or any other all-male attended events.