Ethnic dances can lend international appeal to meetings or events, whether you're putting on a full-length show or providing guests with individual vignettes. Here are six troupes that fit the bill.
PHOTO GALLERY
Orpheus Hellenic Folklore Society is dedicated to preserving Greek history and culture. For events, the group's members perform mainland and island dances and music, like the kalamatianos, a traditional circle dance. The organization took part in the 1994 World Cup opening ceremonies in Chicago, where it is based. The group is available throughout the U.S. and Canada. Pricing starts at $500 for a 30-minute performance with eight dancers; travel costs and other expenses are additional. Photo: Alvo Gualdron
Toronto-based Ijo Vudu Dance International provides traditional and tribal dances from all over Africa. Offerings include the agbekor, a warrior dance from Ghana, and bata drum and dance performances that originate with the Yoruba people from Nigeria. Acts may last as little as a minute or as long as one hour. Prices start at $2,000, and the company performs worldwide. Photo: Courtesy of Ijo Vudu Dance International
Washington-based Dhoonya Dance specializes in South Asian and Middle Eastern dances, including Bollywood, Indian classical and folk, and belly dancing. For D.C.-area shows, prices start at $450 for three to four performers performing one dance style; the troupe can appear throughout the U.S. and Canada for additional fees. Photo: Courtesy of Doonya Dance
Headquartered in Miami Beach, Hispanic Flamenco Ballet spreads the artistic and cultural traditions of Spain and Latin America around the U.S. during its two annual tours. Typical performances are about 70 minutes long—but smaller shows, such as a half hour with four flamenco dancers and a guitar player, start around $1,500. Photo: Claudio Lovo
Lily Cai Chinese Dance Company performs a blend of traditional and modern dances from China. Event performances include dances from various Chinese dynasties, as well as the popular ribbon dance (which mixes classical and contemporary moves). The company is based in San Francisco and performs worldwide; pricing is available upon request. Photo: Marty Sohl
New York-based Russian music and dance ensemble Barynya performs Russian, Cossack, Ukrainian, and Russian Gypsy dances and music on instruments including the garmoshka, a Russian folk button accordion, and the lute-like domra. Full 90-minute shows start at $7,500, but a trio or duo of performers can cost less than $1,000; the company can travel worldwide. Photo: Courtesy of Barynya
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Party Line Tent Rentals
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