Don’t miss the opportunity to see Gina perform live! In addition to appearances at private events and showcases, Gina performs regularly at Atlanta restaurants. Please send an email for current performance information. Also, please see below for the history of bellydance and audience etiquette.

“Belly Dance” is known in the Middle East as Raks Sharki (Rahks Sharr-kee) which literally means “dance of the East”, or “Oriental” dance. The name “belly dance” may have originated from the French phrase “danse du ventre” (dance of the belly) because of the movement of the torso. This label is inaccurate as Oriental dance involves movement of the entire body, with more emphasis on the hips than on the belly. Although the exact area of origin is controversial, what is acknowledged and agreed upon is that Oriental dance is one of the oldest dances still thriving today.

In the Middle East, people dance to express joy. There are also professional dancers who are hired to perform at weddings and other celebrations. In the West, dance is studied formally in classes; in the Middle East, children learn to dance from relatives and friends at social gatherings as a part of their culture.

A traditional Oriental dance performance consists of several musical changes. Depending on the performance venue, the dance show could consist of several parts (entrance/balady/taksim/drum solo/finale) or simply a couple of songs.

For the audience spectator unaccustomed to Oriental dance, the following tips can help to make the experience special and memorable.

AUDIENCE ETIQUETTE

What to say:
*Traditional and respectful encouragement can be shown to the dancer by exclaiming “Ay Wa” (translates as “Yes!” in Arabic) or, if you are in a Greek atmosphere, the famous “Opa!” will show your appreciation.
*A Zhaghareet, the fast trilling of the tongue against the roof of the mouth, is also a welcome expression of encouragement.

Applause:
Please clap whenever you see the dancer execute a difficult movement. (Hint: Remember, it’s harder than it looks!)

Tipping:
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. Dealing a small stack of $1 bills like a deck of cards over the dancer’s head is a fabulous acknowledgement to her artistry and skill. It is a dignifying experience for the tipper as well.

Audience Participation:
Allow the dancer to perform her show. When it is time for her to choose someone to dancer with her, it will be apparent. Please do not pressure anyone to dance with her if he/she has not been invited. Simply relax and enjoy the show.