The majority of beginner belly dancers do for many reasons. I think the primary reason is because of stage fright. It is understandable to have a mild or even severe case of stage fright when it may be a dancer's first experience in the spotlight. But if a dancer's goal is to reach a professional level he or she must devote his or herself to defeating this mental barrier. I think that overcoming stage fright takes "The Three P's": Patience, Practice, and Perseverance.

 Another common element that explains why some belly dance students avoid performing is what I like to call "The Belly Dance Blues". This type of fear is more of an inner conflict. This isn't when the person is concerned about doing a perfect routine or impressing viewers. The "belly dance blues" is when a dancer compares her self with another dancer. Many students experience this are basically intimidated by professional belly dancers, or those in their troupe, who are learning faster. It's quite natural for a person to want to be "the" best, but to be one of the best belly dancers requires experience and appreciation of others who have worked hard to get where they are. Encouraging yourself, accepting positive criticism, and constant practicing are sure ways you can improve as a belly dancer. Those are the only ways I know of to earn a deserved title in the belly dance world.

Excluding stage fright and the belly dance blues, I believe some women are also afraid to publicly display their bodies through dance because they are uncomfortable with the idea of creating such intense, vibrant movements in front of an audience of men. This might especially pertain to married dancers. However, every dancer must be educated about its history to understand the concept for performing to reach a natural peace. When you know the art, and its background, you can easily accept an offer to exhibit your belly dance skills. I believe belly dancing to be the loveliest dance because it allows its audience to appreciate the natural contours of a woman's figure. The key areas that help to define a woman's shape (hips, abdomen, assets, breasts) are mostly used in belly dancing, making it one of the most natural ways to capture the true elegance of the female silhouette. To be ashamed of belly dancing is the same as being ashamed of your beautiful physical characteristics that make up who you are as a woman

 So, when on stage, a dancer is expected to be nervous, scared, or even distraught. But never be afraid or embarrassed of your body. If you aren't satisfied with your physical appearance, make a goal to improve it. Otherwise, look forward to performing, as it is the key challenge in becoming a great belly dancer. Performing builds confidence, mentally motivates, and inspires those who see you dance. Seeing a good belly dancer perform is one of the most exciting and intriguing experiences. It’s far greater than a magic trick or circus act. Oriental dance is an old art form with deep roots. It is still being preserved by dedicated dancers of today. Performing is possibly the most important aspect of dancing itself. Besides, who wants to keep a great thing all to themselves anyway?