Christina Belly Dancer

**If your gig requires a face covering, as per current safety requirements, please notify me 24 hours in advance of the gig so I can accommodate this request.**

I tailor the length of my show to the event planner's needs, but generally speaking, I perform one set between 15-30 minutes long. If you prefer a shorter set (between 5-10 minutes long, I can do that upon request for a lower rate.

A traditional show starts with a solo performance, consisting of an intro-song (mid-fast tempo), followed by a slower song, then a drum solo. After my solo, I love to get the audience up and dancing. For this portion of my set I select upbeat songs to engage the audience with. I always dance with a veil (typically upon entrance) and my finger cymbals throughout. However, upon special request, I am more than happy to dance with an extra prop or two, such as:
- Goddess Wings
- Shamadan
- Sword
- Cane
- Fan Veils

As a child, I have always had happy feet, as I like to say. A song I like comes on and it's hard not to move. My parents discovered this and enrolled me in ballet in first grade, and while I no longer hold on to my ballerina roots, I have always been open to studying new dance forms! I have taken hip hop, Kizomba, and salsa before discovering that my true passion lies with belly dance. It has always fascinated me, but I was hesitant to start lessons, until I saw a video of Shakira that sealed the deal. Initially, I started the dance to increase my fitness levels, and to keep my body moving artistically. However, my teacher discovered my talent and started booking me restaurant gigs early on. While I do not make a career out of belly dance, I promised myself that I won't accept a job that does not allow me to keep up with my passion. Half of the time, you will see me performing in a costume that I have made. This talent I wouldn't have discovered had I not taken my first lesson. Belly dance has opened so many doors artistically, personally, and spiritually, and aided my physical fitness in a tremendous way. I am extremely thankful to have the dance, and the lovely community of dancers and audience members, to share this joy with.

Changing/costume storage: I require a private space to get changed in, as well as store my things. I do not feel comfortable storing my costume bag in a public restroom, unless locker space is provided. If needed, I can bring my costume bag to my vehicle as long as I have a safe space for my purse. Please notify me prior to the event date of these accommodations.

Music: I bring an iPod (non-bluetooth) complete with AUX or USB cord to each event. Please notify me 24 hours prior to the event if a CD or bluetooth is required so I can work to accommodate you.

Staging: Please let me know prior to the event what size of stage space I will have (this will also determine the type of props I bring; let's just say that Isis wings or cane do not work well in small spaces! Hah). Will I be dancing on a stage? Will I be dancing on an empty floor space prior to audience participation? Another important note is simply whether or not I will be dancing indoors.

Please be aware that my schedule fills up quickly so try to book your event in advance as much as possible to reserve your date. As multiple bookings for a dancer on a given night are common, please plan your event carefully and coordinate with me for your reserved performance time. Should times change please notify me immediately, and I will work with you to accommodate to the best of my ability.