How much does it cost?

Hiring a bellydancer in DC, MD, and VA is well worth the cost for the entertainment value they can bring to your event or venue. See Rates or contact Leilah Moon for an exact quote. The cost will reflect standard industry rates for a belly dancer in the DC and Baltimore Metro area. Leilah Moon's rates also take into account her business and travel expenses, major holidays, size and scale of the event, and any special requests.


What about tipping?

If you loved the distinctive performance, professionalism, and entertainment value that hiring Leilah Moon brought to your event, then please feel free to express it with a tip, or better yet, write her a review!  If you are hiring a belly dancer for a party, tip can be cash in separate envelope or included with her payment. If she is performing in a restaurant or public venue, a shower of bills or a few tucked into her armband or hip belt is totally acceptable. Please DO NOT tip in her bra, bosoms, or bottom.


Where will Leilah Moon perform?

To see if your event is right for a belly dancer, check out Leilah Moon's tips for making your event memorable. If you are interested in having a gorgeous, talented belly dancer bring in guests to your restaurant, hookah lounge, or nightclub, please inquire availability via email. Leilah Moon resides in Maryland and would be willing to provide belly dance entertainment in your DC, MD, or NoVA area venue. Otherwise, you can check out her events and performance schedule on social media or the Schedule page. 


Should you get up and dance?

Yes! Leilah Moon will start her set with some pieces to showcase her abilities as a dancer, however, there will definitely be songs that ask for audience participation and you can always dance and clap along from your seat or spot in the audience.


What kind of music will she dance to?

Leilah Moon traditionally dances to classical Egyptian, Turkish and Arabic music, as well as Sha'abi, Khaleegy, pop and dance music from the middle east. Have a favorite song or singer? Let Leilah know so she can include it in her set!

 
What is acceptable behavior for an audience member?

Bellydancers love a loud audience; that's how they know you appreciate the performance! Clap, cheer, and sing if you like. You can also zaghareet (that high-pitched "lelele" sound) or shout "Y'alla" or  "Aiwa" as these are all acceptable call-outs. Catcalls or lewd comments will not be tolerated. You can also feel free to dance along; she may even invite you to dance with her in the stage area!


What does a typical performance/show entail?

A show usually consists of a single 20-25 minute set with an entrance piece, props, a zesty drum solo, and audience participation! Any show can be tailored to your event's needs.


Can I make special requests for costuming, props, music, etc?

Absolutely! Leilah is happy to make accommodations to best fit the needs of your event. Please contact her for a personalized quote for your event.


What props will Leilah Moon perform with?

At this time, Leilah Moon performs gracefully with a veil, fanveils, wings, candle tray, and candelabra (raqs al shamadan). Her specialty is Egyptian style cane/stick (raqs al assaya).


Is it appropriate for kids, older relatives, etc?

Absolutely! All of Leilah Moon's shows are family-friendly entertainment. If your party is oriented towards younger guests or a more conservative crowd, Leilah Moon has more conservative costuming available and can make special accommodations such as games and lessons for children. 


What about equipment and set up?

Please allow at least 15 minutes between Leilah's arrival and the time you expect her to perform. She will come in full make-up, hair, costume, and cover-up, but you want her to look and feel her best when performing for you and your quests. You will need to provide a dressing room area (an office, guest bedroom, or spacious bathroom is fine) and a stage area or floor space that is free of obstruction.

This time is also needed to set up props and do sound check. For large venues, a sound system with iPod, bluetooth, or flash-drive capabilities will be required. For small venues such as parties in your home, she can bring a portable, heavy-duty speaker if one is not provided. Please let her know what to expect. If her performance is intended as a surprise for a guest of honor, she will work with you to coordinate a seamless, secret entry into the venue until it's time to wow them!


What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I speak with the customer about what their expectations are of the event and of my performance including length, date, time, and any specific requests for props, music, or costuming. Once we have finalized these details, I provide a price quote and a detailed contract. Once the contract is signed, the booking is considered complete only once the deposit has been paid.


What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
The best bellydancers are eternal learners, so I am constantly taking classes and workshops with other industry professionals to improve my craft. I attend several dance festivals and conventions each year to stay abreast of industry changes and add to my body of knowledge.

I currently hold certifications on Sahra Saeeda's Journey Through Egypt Levels I and II.


How did you get started doing this type of work?
I love Middle Eastern dance and made the choice to go from a serious hobbyist to a professional dancer to expand my opportunities to travel and perform.


What types of customers have you worked with?
Classes, private lessons, workshops, restaurant and festival performances, private parties like birthdays, retirements, weddings, corporate events, or "Girl's Night In/Out"


Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
I worked with a couple to add excitement to a small intimate wedding reception on a Potomac cruise. Working with the small space was challenging, but I was able to incorporate the bride's family's Egyptian heritage with classical Egyptian music as a surprise entertainer during the dinner hour. By the end of my first set all the guests were up and dancing, and it made for a unique and fun wedding reception for all.


What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Consider the length of show most appropriate for your occasion. I usually recommend that dance entertainment lasts between 20-25 minutes because audience attention tends to lose focus after 30 minutes and guests want to return to eating/drinking/dancing/conversing. If you are looking for a longer entertainment schedule at your event, then several short shows with breaks in between can work nicely without overwhelming your audience.


More Questions? Contact Leilah Moon.