Hire a Professional Belly Dancer
Raks sharki… Middle Eastern dance… la danse orientale… belly dance… no matter the name, the dance has inspired millions throughout the centuries. Aazura Nour is a professional performer and entertainer with over 15 years of experience to offer. Below are some of the typical performances available to help make your festivity memorable. Aazura can also tailor shows to suit your tastes and need.
Whether you are celebrating a birthday, a wedding, a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, or a corporate event, delight your audience with the splendor of the East!
Belly Gram - $250
The most popular type of show for birthdays and other such events that require the element of surprise. This show is geared for those who simply want to surprise and poke fun at their guest of honor. The classic Belly Gram typically includes props such as veil and finger cymbals, along with some classic schtick and audience participation. The recommended time for this dance is between 10 and 15 minutes – enough time to keep everyone laughing while still keeping focus on the guest of honor.
Performance and Class - $350
A popular event for “hen parties,” such as bridal and baby showers, women’s groups, graduations, and birthdays. This show includes a short dance performance as well as a mini class of basic dance instruction. Aazura brings hip scarves and veils for the class and keeps the mood light. This event is full of fun and gets everyone up at any party. Recommended time is 45 to 60 minutes.
Classic Dance Shows - $275-$375
For larger, more formal affairs such as corporate events, themed-parties and festivals, nothing sets the mood like a professional belly dance show. A typical solo dance is approximately 20 to 30 minutes in length. Longer shows are also available and may include a costume change. Shows include dynamic entrances, tempo and mood changes, exciting drum solos, and upbeat finales. Various props and audience participation can be added to enhance the performance.
Weddings $300-$400
Aazura is available to help make your special day perfect and will work with you to plan all the details of the wedding performance. Allowing extra time for weddings to help alleviate stress on the bride, Aazura realizes your special needs and understands how uncontrollable events can affect the day’s schedule.
Restaurant and Nightclub Shows
A seasoned restaurant dancer, Aazura can help give your venue added flavor without making your patrons feel uncomfortable. A discounted rate is available for venues that have dancing on a regular basis. Please call for information and pricing.
Pricing is for single dancer, Bay Area shows only. Additional fees apply when requesting more than one dancer or for travel outside the Bay Area. Pricing is determined by travel distance, availability, length of performance and number of dancers. Additional fees may be charged for day-of and last minute bookings. Please call for an exact quote.
FAQs
How long is the performance? What does it involve?
Performances vary depending on the occasion, venue, and circumstances. Please see detailed descriptions of the types of shows offered and their length.
Is it “family friendly”?
Belly dance is very family friendly! In the Middle East, raks sharqi is a part of every celebration and is viewed and enjoyed by the society’s children as well as adults. Aazura loves dancing for children and frequently involves them in her show.
What do you wear?
The traditional belly dance costume is made up of a jeweled brazier top and skirt set, often with beaded fringe and matching accessories. Please see the Gallery for pictures of some of Aazura’s costumes. Aazura strives to ensure her entire audience is comfortable and happy with her performance. If you prefer a more conservative or covered look, please let Aazura know and she can accommodate your needs.
Will you bring your own music?
Aazura will arrive with a CD of performance music for her show. The venue is responsible for providing an adequate sound system that can play burned CDs and is loud enough to be heard throughout the performance area (the louder the better). Aazura is happy to work with you to accommodate special musical requests, or to arrange for live musicians to perform at your event.
How much does it cost?
Because of the individual attention we put into each booking, prices vary. Please see the price list and call for a quote.
What if I need more than one belly dancer or live music?
Aazura collaborates professionally with several of the Bay Area’s finest Middle Eastern entertainers and is happy to arrange for multiple dancers and musicians to attend your event. Please call for pricing and availability. Advance booking is required.
What preparations should I make for the performance and what can I expect from Aazura Nour?
A smooth performance involves a collaboration between both you and the dancer. For a successful event, please ensure the following can be provided:
- a smooth, level surface that is safe for dancing. Aazura typically dances in bare feet. Please advise her if she will need to bring dance shoes.
-a stereo system that can play MP3 CDs. The sound system should be loud enough to accommodate the size and capacity of the room.
- a safe changing room and/or a safe place to for belongings to be stored during the performance.
In turn, Aazura will
- discuss any special needs or requests prior to the performance.
- arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the performance time.
- arrive with a burned CD of her music.
- make sure everyone has a good time!
What about tipping?
Tipping is always appreciated and adds a lively element to the dance performance. In the Middle East, it is believed that tipping the belly dancer brings good luck and fortune. Tips can be either thrown over the dancer’s head in a money shower or tucked into the side or back of the costume. Tips put into the front of the bra will not be accepted. Individuals wishing to show their appreciation more discretely may hand the tip to the dancer after the performance has ended.
How soon should I book a performance?
As soon as possible! Due to Aazura’s demanding performance schedule, you should try to book your show as soon as you have the following information:
- date, time, and location of the event
- nature of the event (wedding, birthday, corporate party, etc.)
- type and length of show desired
- number of performers requested
- any other special requests
Aazura will then be able to give you an exact quote. Due to limited availability, please note that additional fees may be charged for last minute bookings, so please plan and book as far in advance as possible.
