Notes for Etiquette for Belly Dancers Workshop
Indiana Bellydance Collective Winter Bazaar 2018
Etiquette for Belly Dancers
1. Class Etiquette
Be on time
Stay in your space
Be respectful of the teacher and other dancers
Don’t talk while the teacher is explaining.
Don’t forget deodorant. Skip the fragrance. Many people are allergic to it.
Turn off your phone
Don’t be a prima donna. If you know more than your teacher, quit and start your own class
If you are sick, stay home!
2. Performance Etiquette
Check your costume from all angles and in motion. Wear underwear!
Consider how much exposure is appropriate for the venue.
Consider angles and exposure in floorwork. Don’t stick your butt in the audience’s face. Your costume should not look like underwear!
Don’t hog dressing room space, or mirrors.
Get ready and get out.
No selfies in dressing room when others are dressing.
Keep your gear organized and in one place. Don’t dump your bag on top of someone else’s gear.
Wear a cover up.
Again, be respectful. Support your fellow dancers and don’t spread mean gossip.
From Ruby - Give credit where credit is due.
3. Restaurant Dancing Etiquette
Don’t try to undercut another dancers fee, or steal her gig. No soliciting.
Keep your costume in a garment bag, or bag. Don’t scatter your gear all over the office.
Be professional - show up on time, have your music ready, etc.
How to work with live musicians - tell them what you want and be prepared to improvise. Again, be respectful.
But wait, there’s more!
This from Jeana,
4. Audience Etiquette
You can tell your audience, this is belly dance, not ballet or opera! You don't have to sit quietly in your seat the whole time and only clap at the very end... we encourage you to make participatory and appreciative noises!
Please silence your phone.
Be sure it’s okay with the performers before taking photos, or video.
Avoid flash photography, as it’s distracting to the dancers.
Do NOT post video, or photos, to social media without the performer's permission!
And please stay for the whole show. Don’t leave after your wife/sister/daughter/grandma/uncle finishes dancing.
If you would like to add to this list, send me a message, and I’ll add your comment. This topic keeps growing!
What’s your Etiquette nightmare story?
Remember the Golden Rule! Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.