Marika Raks Oriental dance performer bringing elegance, energy and authentic flair

A clear, safe and reasonably flat performance area is required. I can adapt to smaller spaces, as I have experience performing in restaurants, but there should still be enough room to move and dance safely. A reliable sound system is required. I provide my playlist on my phone and USB. If a DJ is present, please provide their direct contact details in advance so I can send the playlist and discuss the music setup.

Please provide the exact address, information about parking and, if possible, a discreet entrance for arrival. I also require a private changing space. A storage room or similar space is fine; a toilet is not suitable.
For surprise performances, please let me know in advance who I should contact upon arrival.

I provide my music playlist on my phone and USB, but the venue or organiser should provide a reliable sound system. If a DJ is present, I will coordinate the playlist with them in advance. Lighting can be discussed depending on the venue and type of event.

Ideally, I need a clear performance area of approximately 3 × 3 metres. I can adapt to smaller spaces, especially for restaurant performances, as long as there is still enough room to move and dance safely.

One of my favourite performances was at a wedding in a beautiful venue with a staircase leading down to the main event space. I was able to make a special entrance down the stairs, which made the performance very memorable for me. The organisation was also very professional, with a clear schedule and good communication beforehand. I first performed a full show, followed by a more interactive part with the bride, groom and their family.

I enjoy a variety of events because every audience is different. I particularly enjoy restaurant performances, as they challenge me to engage and entertain different people throughout the evening. I also enjoy events where guests are interested in dancing and actively join in. Henna celebrations are another favourite, as they often have a very enthusiastic audience and a lively atmosphere.

I started performing and teaching Oriental Dance professionally in 2014. I began by approaching different restaurants and organisations to introduce myself and look for performance opportunities. My first professional performances included New Year's Eve events, henna celebrations and performances at the Ghent Festivities. From there, I continued building a network and contacting different organisations and venues to create new performance opportunities.

I have experience performing in different settings, including restaurants, private events and celebrations, and I am used to adapting my performance to the audience and the atmosphere. I take the background and interests of the audience into account when choosing my music and repertoire. For example, I can adapt the music selection for a Turkish, Arabic or more general Belgian audience.
I also vary my performance by using different styles and props, such as cane, veil and Isis Wings. When an event includes two performance sets, I can also prepare different costumes and a varied programme for each set.
For me, entertaining is not only about performing a choreography. I pay attention to the audience and the atmosphere and like to involve people when appropriate, so that the performance becomes part of the event rather than just a show.

I normally arrive around 30–45 minutes before the performance to allow enough time for changing, preparation and a sound check. Performance length is flexible depending on the event, with either one or two sets possible. Each set can be up to 30 minutes. One or two additional songs can sometimes be added if appropriate, depending on the schedule.

Yes, I am happy to perform outdoors. The performance area should be reasonably flat, safe and suitable for dancing. Please let me know in advance if the surface is grass, gravel or another type of outdoor surface, so I can prepare the appropriate footwear. A private changing space should also be available, even for outdoor performances. Weather conditions should be taken into account when planning an outdoor performance.

Clients often describe my performances as enjoyable, engaging and professional. They appreciate my dancing, my knowledge of different Oriental Dance styles and my ability to create a good atmosphere. I also pay attention to creating a strong beginning and a clear ending, while adapting my performance to different spaces and audiences.

Yes. I can adapt the music, repertoire, props, costumes and structure of the performance to the event and audience. Depending on the audience, I can choose different music and Oriental Dance styles, and I can include props such as cane, veil or Easy Wings. For two performance sets, I can also prepare different costumes and a varied programme.
I am happy to discuss the desired format, duration and level of audience interaction in advance. Clear information about the event and what is expected helps me prepare the most suitable performance.

A glass of water is appreciated. If possible, a small snack such as a cookie or piece of fruit is also welcome to help me keep my energy up during the event. A full meal is not necessary.