This is a guest post by one of our blog readers Sarah Maccarelli Jordan.
I'm a hoop dance performer, kids' hula hoop dance instructor, & I teach women all over the world how to start their own hula hoop dance classes for kids with my online course.
A hoop dancer performs with hula hoops all over the body (not just on the waist) and incorporates dance and hoop tricks. The hoop is used as a prop and at times a dance partner. Hoop dancers can use many hoops during a routine, not just one.
Hoop dancers don't use the little hoops you find at toy shops, but instead use sturdier (and usually larger) hoops that are made for adults. In fact, I used to make my own hoops out of irrigation pipe! Some hoops even light up with amazing patterns (photos attached).
What is required to be a hoop dancer? Confidence and a patience and a desire to learn and perform/teach hoop skills. No special certificate or degree is required, although there are many Hoop Teacher training programs, such as http://www.teachkidstohoop.com
So where does a hoop dancer perform? There are several niches for hoop dancers, including kids' party entertainment, such asbirthday parties, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and other kid-friendly celebrations. For those over 21, you'll find hoopers at Casinos, night clubs, concerts and Raves.
The average kids' hooping instructor earns $100 to $165 per hour. Some performers make more depending if they are performing with fire or not. The most I've ever been paid for a gig (so far!) is $300 per hour in NJ. I do not use fire.