Does anyone know ways I could find gigs at bellydancing?

Question

HEy I am a good dancer in North NEw jersey, and I am interestead if anyone could tell me how I can find gigs bellydancing, to perform at weddings, parties, reasturaunts etc etc/ I try too search for jobs, but no luck. Any advice would be appreciate it. Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi Tiffany,

  You are going to have to put yourself out there... you are going to have to advertise.    

Put an ad on craigslist.org and detail what kind of events you can perform at.    Also... it is a tad expensive but you can do two things...  set up a web site or place an ad in the Yellow Pages of your city.

You can also find an agent as what you do is a talent... and I can just bet that there are times when people will call for unique gigs and then your agent would set you up.

Also,  get  business cards.    I live in Houston and when I go to some restaurants, at the front of the business is a table where people put their business cards.  If you can find some of these eating places,  I think you might get some business.

That is about all I can think of right now,  but I really think you should advertise and get exposure that way.

Thanks for reading.

Happy Dancing  :))

Answer 2

Business cards are essential.  You can get cheap (or even free) ones at www.vistaprint.com.  

If you can afford to print some flyers or postcards, that's even better - but they MUST look professional, otherwise it's better to stick with the cards.

Now hit the pavement and start handing out your cards or flyers at restaurants all over your area.  Ask to speak to the manager if you can.  

Are there function centers or reception centers in your area which host weddings?   Hand your card or flyer in there too - again, do your best to see the manager.  

Now do the same for wedding planners and celebrants (Google or search the phone book for names).  

Wherever you can, get email addresses for the people you hand a card to.  A week or so after your visit, send them an email offering them a free trial performance.  Include a link to your website - you do have one, don't you?

A good website with good pictures - and preferably videos - of yourself in action, is an essential marketing tool.  You can set one up yourself cheaply with Wordpress, and it's not too hard to learn (have a look at the one I set up recently, below - starting from a position of knowing nothing!).

It takes work to get gigs. I used to be a flamenco performer, so I know!   These days I just belly dance for fun.  Good luck!

Answer 3

Advertise in your local newspapers, the free ones. Also get cards and put them up in your local stores, you'll be surprised at how many people will respond, good luck !!!!!!!!!