Frequently Asked Questions 

What is belly dance?

What North Americans call "belly dance" is really a collection of many styles based on folk dances of the Middle East, North Africa, Eastern Europe, and Western Asia.  Traditionally, and indeed still in the present day, these dances were done by all members of the community (women, men, and children) at community gatherings such as weddings, festivals, births, and parties.  In some cultures women dance only with other women and men only with other men, though in others everyone dances together. Belly dance is traditionally entirely family friendly. A (real) belly dancer will never take off her clothes nor act in a way which you would not want your child or grandmother to see.  As with all dance forms, belly dance may be sensual, but it may also be happy, elegant, sad, mysterious, energetic, calm, or anything else a dancer may wish to express.  For more information, there are articles on this subject available on the excellent website www.shira.net. In particular, see "A Dance for the Whole Family" and "Isn't that Like Stripping? (Why They Ask)".

What kind of belly dance does Seraka practice?

Seraka does not perform "traditional" belly dance.  As with our namesake, the magpie, we are collectors of movements from different traditions.  In particular, we have taken instruction in Atseguin (Eastern European Gypsy) belly dance as well as in the Tribal Fusion Style.  We are constantly engaged in research and practice to help us hone our skills.  The result is our own unique blend of belly dance which respects and takes inspiration from the past, creating a truly modern, engaging style.

What can I expect at a Seraka performance?

Your dancers will arrive 10-15min prior to their performance time.  Upon arrival, they will contact the event organizer and request that they be shown to a private space where they can prepare for the show.  Dancers will arrive mostly in costume, but will require a few minutes to put on the final touches. Dancers should also be provided with a secure area to store their belongings while performing.  Upon meeting the event host, the dancers will provide the host with their music on either a CD or iPod, depending on what was agreed upon in the performance contract.  The dancers should also be allowed to inspect the performance area if this was not possible beforehand.  This allows the dancers to do a final check for safety hazards (important for both dancers and the audience) and to make any last minute adjustments to their show based on the performance space.  The dancers will be ready to start the show on time.  While the dancers are on stage, sit back and enjoy - they are there to entertain!

Following the show the dancers would like a minute or two to catch their breath.  They are happy to stay for a few minutes (up to 10min) after the show to interact with guests and pose for photos.  They will also wish to speak with the event host again and receive payment.  Dancers will provide a receipt for payment.  Normally Seraka is paid immediately following a performance.  If this is not possible the dancers will provide an invoice.

How can I show my appreciation for a performance?

Belly dance is meant to be interactive.  If your show involves audience participation we would love for you to get up and dance with us!  If it is a stage show only, you can show your appreciation by clapping, cheering, or otherwise making noise.  Belly dancers have particular expressions and calls we make to appreciate each other, such as "zaghareet" and "yips"- you can visit "Belly Dance Appreciation 101" for more information on this. Feel free to try them out!  After the show, feel free to come up and speak with us, ask questions or take photos.  We are happy to spend a few minutes with you, though if we have another booking we may have to excuse ourselves.

Tipping belly dancers is traditional - and though it is certainly not necessary, it is always appreciated.  In the Middle East it is common to tuck tips into a dancers costume while she is performing.  This tradition is done respectfully and with out sexual undertones.  However, Seraka feels that body tipping is not appropriate for our group.  If you are enjoying our show and wish to offer us a tip, please place it in our hand, shower it over our heads, or give it to us after the show.

What can I expect at a Seraka workshop?

Your instructor will arrive to your event 5-10min prior to the scheduled start time.  She will introduce herself to the event host and either provide the host with a CD of music, or set up her own music, depending on what was agreed upon in the contract.  The instructor will have a selection of hip scarves for the participants to borrow for the duration of the workshop, but if participants wish to bring or wear their own costuming, this is welcome.

The instructor will start the workshop on time.  She will begin by leading the group through some basic warm-up moves to ensure that everyone is safely prepared for the workshop.  She will then teach some beginner-level belly dance movements individually and then combine them into a brief choreography.  If the participants feel up to it, she may lead everyone in an improvisational dance circle.  At the end of the workshop, the instructor will lead some simple stretches.  If you have purchased the deluxe package, the instructor will end by dancing a one-song performance.

Seraka workshops are designed to be low-key and fun for everyone- no previous dance experience or special equipment is required.  A space large enough for all your participants to stand and extend their arms to the side is adequate. The majority of our workshops are meant to be part of a party or other event, so it is not necessary for participants to change into "exercise" clothing.  If you wish for a more intense workout, or a more advanced workshop for a group of belly dancers, we are certainly able to accommodate this.  Simply indicate this when you arrange your booking.

Friends of Seraka

These folks help us out in all kinds of ways, offering advice, ideas, and support - not to mention their amazing skills.  If you are looking for really talented people who are also really great to work with, definitely contact them.