Mentor Programme

Mentor Programme

Shema is now running 'Mentor Programmes' for any dancers who wish to progress their dancing either in specific areas or just in general. The format is based around Private Tuition and is tailored to each individual dancer's needs so that they feel they have received maximum input and there is no risk of becoming frustrated by being in a group situation.

Costs are worked out per hour and there are no required timescales in place so you can work at your own speed. A suggested frequency would be monthly but if this does not work for you or your budget then please feel free to discuss this with Shema as this can be increased or reduced as necessary.

The uniqueness of this programme is that Shema can come to you! So, you do not need to worry about travelling long distances, with all of the stresses and exhaustion which this can include- all you need to do is find a suitable studio space for the lessons, provide a music system and start learning!

Alternatively, Private lessons can now be held in the Dar Tangerina Academy- the UK's first dedicated Middle Eastern Dance & Music studio, in Bristol, UK. There is no extra hire cost, so you just have to fund your travel/accommodation.

For full details, see below and please contact Shema if you have any questions, concerns or ideas.

Who is this aimed at?

Ideally, dancers will be minimum intermediate/advanced level, either about to launch a performance/teaching career, or who are already teaching and performing as amateurs; or more experienced teachers and professional performers who wish to increase their knowledge.

Teachers
Performers
Amateurs ready to transition to professional
Professionals wanting to learn and develop

Where is it held?

In the studio at Dar Tangerina Academy in Bristol (no extra hire costs), or Shema can travel to you, in which case all you need to do is arrange the studio/room and a music system and Shema will arrange her travel (this will be invoiced to the final quote)

Shema will endeavour to find the cheapest route so as to keep costs as low as possible for you- suggestions for local travel and pick-up at other end welcome!
Journeys of more than 4 hours will require accommodation however- this should be in a B&B or hotel agreed in advance.

How much will it cost?

Each session is worked out per hour and if applicable, then travel costs are applied on top dependent on distance. You are responsible for hiring a studio (if not held at the Dar Tangerina Academy) and providing a music system. If travel is more than 4 hours then accommodation in B&B or hotel for Shema may be required.

£35 per hour (minimum of 2 hours per session when held away from the Dar Tangerina Academy)
£180 for whole day (6 hours of tuition with an hour break)
Tuition may be split between up to 2 dancers but must still be individual lessons ie 1 hour each and arranged in advance
Payment is in advance only, minimum 1 week before travel
Quote for travel will be given a time of enquiry to enable the dancer to make a decision as early as possible

Is there any way to reduce the cost?

If you are concerned about being able to afford the costs of the Tuition, then there are 3 possible options;

Book the sessions to be held at the Dar Tangerina Academy where there is no extra studio hire cost and you can book a single hour

OR

Shema can teach a workshop for your students in your venue

OR
Shema can perform at a hafla on the same day for your students or local dancers

The income from these could help to cover the costs of the Mentor fees as well as the workshop fees and travel (this is your responsibility to organise; Shema will provide images and bio as necessary as well as featuring it on this website, but will not be held responsible for low numbers and payment must be in advance)

Workshop charged at £90 per hour (1 hour minimum)
Performance charged at £150 for 2 sets of 10-15 minutes in the show
Shema will NOT take a percentage from your takings
Workshop must be held on the same day, unless suitable accommodation is provided and may be in any style (arranged in advance)

Example only
Costs outgoing:

Mentor Programme 2 hours at £35           = £70
Workshop for students 2 hours at £90     = £180
Travel (ie around 3 hours each way)         = £50
Hall Hire (ie £15 for 4 hours)                        = £60
Total                                                                         = £360

Workshop Potential Income
20 students paying £20 per head                = £400 - leaving a small profit of £40 as well!

What can I study with Shema?

Below are some of the elements which we can study, however, the list is endless! If there is something you particularly want to work on or have seen in Shema's dancing, then please email her or phone to discuss it in person.

For Shema's full biography and cv please visit www.shemabellydance.com

All techniques- Oriental, Baladi, Egyptian styling, American Cabaret etc. This could include transitions, interpretation, arms, facial expression and more.
Folklore- Sai'idi (for teachers this is particularly important), Khaleegy, Whirling, Tannoura, Bedouin etc
Rhythms and connecting them to movements
Working with live musicians
Arms and poses
Props and balancing (Veil, Shemadan, Zylls)
Performance feedback (either on a live performance or using a DVD)
Etiquette and professionalism/ How to put together a professional show or set
Fitness and flexibility guidance
Choreography feedback- if you have written your own choreography and would like input on how to improve or develop it

What days is the programme available on and how do I book?

Shema has a varied schedule so tuition will be fitted around her performance and teaching schedule both in the UK and internationally. If there is a day which particularly suits you then Shema will endeavour to accommodate you of course.

Obviously dates are most easily filled on weekends so if you are considering this route then please book well in advance as these are the most popular times.

To book or enquire, email Shema direct on shema@tangerina.org or via her website www.shemabellydance.com