Booking a Belly Dance Performance

What people are saying

"Aslahan was absolutely lovely! She was extremely professional and easy to work with and I would recommend her highly. Her performance was beautiful! We could not have hoped for more, Brava Aslahan!"
-organizer, themed club event "streets of Marakesh"

"I can't believe you got my father up to dance. I haven't seen him dance in 20 years."
-mother of the bride, Turkish wedding

Want to see more comments?

Looking to make your next event unforgettable?

Historically in the Middle East belly dancers were hired to perform at celebratory events. In modern times, we continue this tradition at a variety of venues. I've performed at weddings, birthdays, anniversary celebrations, film premieres, art galleries, themed charity auctions and fundraisers, street festivals, cultural fairs, gala dinners, and college diversity events.

Each of my performances is tailored specifically to your event, with costume and music chosen based on your venue, theme, and audience. My expertise and passion for this art form have led to the enthusiasm and appreciation of Turkish, Greek, Persian, Armenian, and American audiences. Let me charm your guests, and inspire them to get up and do some dancing of their own.

For a wedding show, you get extra time and attention in planning to make sure my costume, music selection, and other details fit your vision for this special event. You also get extra flexibility in the schedule of the show, because I know weddings seldom run precisely on time.

Have a larger event where you'd like multiple dancers performing? A faire that would be enhanced by a "gypsy" troupe of dancers and musicians spreading merriment? A cultural event where you'd like to see different styles of Middle Eastern dance? Please contact me to inquire.

Frequently asked questions:

• What do you provide, and what do I need to provide?
  Click here to see my standard contract template, which outlines what each party agrees to provide, as well as considerations for letting your audience enjoy the best show possible.
• Will you perform at my bachelor party/all male event?
  Sorry, no. While you and your friends may be very respectful, a certain type of show is usually expected at bachelor parties that isn't consistent with the type of entertainment I provide.
• Can I bring my kids/grandmother to your show?
  Absolutely! I provide family entertainment. Children are often my most enthusiastic audience - they love the bright colors and movement of the costumes, and the lively music.
• I can get another dancer for less money; will you lower your price?
  Sorry, no. I'm worth my rates - I have years of experience, am reliable, professional, and well-versed in my art. I understand if you have budgetary constraints, but if that's the case you may want to hire that other dancer.
• Will you wear a skimpy costume/dance extra sexy?
  Er, no. If that's what you are looking for I suggest you hire a different sort of dancer.
• Will you wear something extra modest?
  I can dance in a folkloric costume or a beaded one-piece dress if you prefer. I have to admit the standard two-piece does show many of the movements better, but an Ottoman-era costume is lovely for cultural events.
• What about music?
  Typically I bring a playlist on an MP3 player or a burned CD with a set of songs selected for the show. If you prefer modern, eclectic, or very traditional, let me know and I'll select appropriate music. If you'd like to have live music let me know and I may be able to help you arrange a suitable band. If you've already hired a band I'd be happy to discuss with them what they play for a dancer.
• I'm having an event in a restaurant - will you come and perform there?
  Absolutely, if you clear it with the restaurant ahead of time, and they have the space for a dance show. The restaurant will need to have an entertainment license and have their staff prepared to work around a dancer.
• Can I hire you to dance outside the Boston, MA area?
  Sure, although there may be an additional fee for longer trips. I regularly travel to RI and NH to perform.
• How much is the deposit? How do I pay it?
  Typically the deposit is 50% of the fee. Most often I send a PayPal invoice so you can pay it online via credit card, but other arrangements can be made if necessary. The deposit is refundable up until a week before the performance.

*All media on this site copyright Tashkin Rhythms.