Questions & Answers

• How many months in advance do I need to reserve your services for my wedding date? ASAP-It is always better to book the show sooner than later. If you are flexible with the start time, last minute shows can often be worked in. Saturday nights and holiday performances should be booked well in advance. .

• What makes you different from other local musicians? Why should someone hire you? View www.mellilah.com for a full bio, resume, and list of past events..

• What are your standard payment terms? Payment is due via check or cash before said date of event. If Artist is to be paid on said date of event, it is important to pay the performer(s) in a timely manner once services have been rendered, and payment will be in form of cash only. If the performer(s) are required to wait more than 30 minutes for payment, an extra charge of $100 will apply. Often for weddings, payment is left with either the wedding planner or the DJ so that the bride and groom will not be disturbed with this detail. .

• What is your event cancellation policy? 7 days notice.

• Do you take breaks during the reception? How often? Is recorded music playing during the break? I perform a 20-minute set of music which can include getting guest members up to dance. If the audience is engaged, I will dance as long as I can. You can arrange to have two, 20-minute shows with a costume change inbetween sets. .

• Do you bring backup equipment to the wedding? Do you have backup musicians in case of sickness? Not unless requested. I can arrange to have a live drummer or other musicians..

• Can you perform at an outdoor wedding reception? Yes. Outdoor and garage flooring is less favorable but can be used. Please notify me so appropriate foot wear can be worn. For an ideal performance, I need approx. 25 sq ft of level, clean flooring, free of obstacles. However, more space allows for a better performance. If possible, clear away furniture and low-hanging decorations. .

• What attire do band members typically wear to a wedding? Classical Egyptian belly dance costuming or folkloric costuming. Costuming can be viewed on my website at www.mellilah.com..

• Can the bandleader (or a specified band member) act as emcee for the reception? No. Usually, someone else will introduce the belly dancer as she won't appear until the music begins..

• Will you learn/play particular songs that we request in advance? Yes. Depending on your preference, music can range from classical Arabic to modern pop. Alternatively, you could choose the music .

• Can you take last-minute requests from our guests? Yes. It is always better to book the show sooner than later. If you are flexible with the start time, last minute shows can often be worked in. Saturday nights and holiday performances should be booked well in advance. .

• How far are you willing to travel? How much is the travel charge? I charge $25 per 30 minutes of extraordinary travel time, one way. (I travel throughout most of the King and Snohomish counties without additional travel fees.) Out-of-state travel would require airfair and hotel..

• Do you have a recording of your band/show that we can listen to? Yes. Please visit my website at www.mellilah.com. You will see a link to live video footage on the "Hire" page..

• How many weddings do you perform each year? I perform between 5-6 times each month for weddings, large stage shows, restaurants, private parties, and community and corporate events..

• How many musicians belong to you group? What are their specialities? I dance as a solo artist and bring my own CD to use on your stereo system. Music must be played loud enough to hear over the crowd. I can arrange to bring a live drummer or other Middle Eastern musicians..

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