Most of Hookah’s customers are Americans, and I’ve received some questions about what to do about tipping belly dancers.  On one hand, it is the industry standard to tip belly dancers around the world, and sometimes that’s her only income.  At Hookah, there is no body tipping…meaning the tips are tossed on the floor while she’s dancing, handed to a server to hold for her, placed in her tip jar, or given to her after her performance.  In some places, it is acceptable to place a tip at the hip of her costume, or inside an arm band.   But on the other hand, American industries and exotic dancers have made tipping a belly dancer seem shady or cheap, even if it’s not a body/costume tip.   How do you feel about it?  Does tipping a belly dancer make her seem less legitimate somehow?  What are your thoughts as an American or person of Middle Eastern origins?

I am now scheduled for once a month chiropractic visits, two weekly yoga classes, one 30 minute massage per week, 1 hour dance techuique class, and 1.5 hour dance company rehearsal.  I have set a goal of 3+ bottles of water daily so my tissues continue to stay properly hydrated.  This is my first attempt at a regimen, so I’m sure this will evolve as I realize what works, what doesn’t, what I can do at home, and what I need to hire someone else to do for me.  I will be sure to stretch extra long and well prior to ANY length performance.  I will rest my back as much as possible between engagements until it’s 100% healed.   There isn’t anything to do now but wait, be proactive, and be patient.

What do you do to make sure you stay healthy while you’re active? 

Aside from the candle snafu, it was a fantastic event.  What a great community of dancers (and TALENTED) we have here in Nashville! And for such a great cause. I couldn’t have thought of a better way to spend Saturday evening!!

Enjoy!

Following the audition was the Umbra Fusion Belly Dance expo at The Blue Rooster in Murfreesboro.  We had a decent turnout of about 70 at it’s peak, which is pretty good!  The challenges for this show were a carpet stage with a drum riser in the center.  Thankfully the stage was large enough that the riser wasn’t really an issue.  Thanks to everyone for coming out and making the event a success, and to Umbra for inviting an Oriental dancer to join your tribal goodness!   I’m glad I could contribute!

Today is a day of rest, celebration, and taking a breather before I jump into the next phase in my professional dance journey!

The song is Rampi Rampi by Turku, and is a traditional Turkish folk song.   There was at least one patron at Hookah that night singing along!  The rhythm is a 9/8, which is sometimes a bit complicated for our western ears to hear.   But this rhythm (called a Kashlima) is a staple in Turkish music.  This is improvisational dance, so it isn’t specifically Turkish style belly dance, but rather just me having fun with a song I love.   Thanks for watching!