how to tell when you need professional kids entertainment for your event

As a performer who provides professional kids entertainment, I frequently run into that question and problem. Each event has an audience that enjoys different things and I pride myself on creating custom shows that maximize each diverse group’s enjoyment.  If you are having an event sometimes it is hard to tell if you need a show designed for kids, adults or both.

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                  Case in point, one time I was hired to perform at a two-year old’s birthday party. I discussed the event in depth with the client and if I should use my “mini belly” package instead of a regular performance. He insisted that the children would be outside and the show was for the parents. He had seen me perform previously and was highly interested in a sword piece in the show. Day of as I went to start my show I was in for quite a surprise as the children were highly involved in the show running around and making the requested sword piece quite dangerous. I modified the show to great success but this is one quick example of why sometimes you need a belly dance show geared toward children. Let me share some quick tips to figure out what kind of belly dance show you might need.

                To start off with I am not saying that kids at a party automatically equal a kids belly dance show. I have had many regular shows with children involved and I love them. But there are times where a show designed specifically for children is needed. Here are some of the questions you need to ask:

1. What type of event is it?
   
   
   1. Is it a child’s birthday party? an adults? A princess party?
      
      
2. Who is the party for and the entertainment geared towards?
   
   
   1. Is it for a child and their friends? Or in honor of the child but really a gathering for friends and family? Or for everyone
      
      
3. How many children will be there? What are their age ranges?
   
   
   1. This will let the dancer know if they might need to modify their show.
      
      
4. What will the kids be doing?
   
   
   1. I know this can be an unknown factor but I have seen that sometimes they are in another area or they are actively watching and participating in the show.
      
      

These questions will give you a good starting point when discussing your show with your belly dancer…and when in doubt, ask. Now you might be wondering what some of the differences in shows are. These are some of the difference I highlight in my shows:

                If it is a young child’s party (and geared towards entertaining the children) I may suggest my “mini belly” package. It is highly interactive with a mini lesson and circle dance time. These shows also include shorter songs with brightly colored child friendly props. This helps keep them engaged and enjoying the show due to a shorter attention span then adults.

                A mixed age show will still offer allt he powerhouse pizazz as a regular show but if there are many children involved who may run around and up, I may suggest modifying the show with different props (ie – no to limited sword/fire).There are plenty of parties I have performed at that are mixed ages with children and sword. This is why it is important to talk to your entertainer and give them as much detail as possible.

                If you are interested in professional kids entertainment by Kirah, make sure to check out her packages designed for children HERE or CONTACT her now.