Extraordinary!
The 1st International
Bellydance Congress Competition
Oh no! A competition!
We have been asked to host a bellydance competition for dancers to show what they can do and for spectators to see the best of bellydance from around the world. We are aware that the reputation of our beloved dance has not always been very high, and we want to show the world that our art form has exacting standards and a dedicated and professional attitude. It’s time to put ourselves on the map and make the general public aware of what we do. We believe that a competition is an essential part of this commitment.
We are very excited about this, because we know what a fantastic effect winning a competition of this kind can do for a dancer’s career. We know how hard it is to become recognised in your own country or abroad, and the extra boost a competition can give is invaluable.
There is a limited number of places, so if you would like to enter please register early to avoid disappointment.
We have 3 categories:
The Isis Award for professional soloists
If dance is your job, your career, your reason for living, this is your category. You may earn your living from a mixture of performing and teaching.
About the Isis Award
You will be asked to present a solo of no more than 6 minutes long. Your solo must be your own choreogaphy in a recognisable Middle Eastern style and can include some influences from other countries. It can include veil, cane or sagat/zills or other appropriate props. We will not accept dances to Western music or in Western styles.
The Cleopatra Award for amateur soloists
If dance is your passion but it is impractical for you to be a full professional, this is your category. You may perform at haflas and an occasional party or restaurant, and may also teach.
About the Cleopatra Award
You will be asked to present a solo of no longer than 5 minutes long. Your solo must be your own choreogaphy in a recognisable Middle Eastern style and can include some influences from other countries. It can include veil, cane or sagat/zills or other appropriate props. We will not accept dances to Western music or in Western styles.
The Palace Dancers Award for groups in all styles
If your group performs at haflas, parties or any other events, this is your category. All groups can register and in any style with a Middle Eastern slant, including Middle Eastern Folkloric (eg. Saidi, Khaleegy, Dabke, Karsilama), Gypsy, ATS or Tribal Fusion.
About the Palace Dancers Award
You will be asked to present a dance of no more than 5 minutes long. Your dance must be your own choreogaphy and can include veil, cane or sagat/zills or other appropriate props. All groups can register and in any style with a Middle Eastern slant, including Middle Eastern Folkloric (eg. Saidi, Khaleegy, Dabke, Karsilama), Gypsy, ATS or Tribal Fusion.
Enter the competition
Marking
In all categories a total of up to 100 marks can be awarded with marks out of 20 for each of the following:
- Technique
- Choreography
- Performance Skills
- Musical Interpretation including expression and phrasing
- Presentation including costume and grooming
You may request to see your marks after the competition, but they will not be read out or available to the public.
Judges
The judges will be dancers and teachers from amongst the star names at the Congress.
Prizes
The prizes will include:
The Isis Award 1st Prize Trophy
- Free Congress Pass for 2008
- An opportunity to perform at Congress Nights 2008
- A contract with Book A Belly Dance Agency
- 2nd Prize Medal
- 3rd Prize Medal
The Cleopatra Award 1st Prize Trophy
- Free Congress Pass for 2008
- 2nd Prize Medal
- 3rd Prize Medal
The Palace dancers Award 1st Prize Trophy
- Certificates
- 2nd Prize Certificates
- 3rd Prize Certificates