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The Origins of Bellydance PerformanceThe art of Bellydance is a new world flower still firmly rooted in the soil of ancient knowledge and tradition. Its deepest roots sprouted in an environment where the "audience" was comprised of local neighbors, extended family and friends. In addition, it is also likely that women and men were separate from eachothers' company. Attracting a mate and dancing with a partner was not a part of performance.
In this garden, the culture of dance that developed was intimate and personal. The gatherings were celebrations of the milestones in life, like marriages, births, harvests, and farewells of all kinds. It is easy to understand how passion and feeling, storytelling and self-expression became valued as much as virtuosity and technical expertise. 
And so today the challenge facing a bellydance artist is to balance dazzling virtuosity with raw honesty and humaness. A bellydancer seeks to be more than just an object of beauty or an abstract exhibit (like a flower in a glass case). A great dancer can bring out the perfume of its exquisite blossom, and give it to each member of the audience.
photo courtesy of 10secondburn
Developing PerformanceTo develop greatness in your performance a few key elements must be present:1. You need practice "How to Bellydance" covers the essential movements used in Performance. Practicing Performance
There are so many venues that are complimented by a bellydance performance, that it suffices to say; Do some kind of dance wherever, and whenever you can** Create opportunities at fundraisers, holiday occasions, home gatherings and offer your art at any function.It does not need to be complicated. One song (choreographed or improvised), a simple costume and a few people to watch.
photo courtesy of Phoney Nickle
Getting Feedback
If you can, ask someone to record your performances. Having a video camera (or digital recording from some form of technology) is very valuable. The quality does not need to be professional unless you want to sell it. Then, you can view and analyze the presentation for yourself and trash it when you have learned and moved on.Most people are very supportive and encouraging, but try to find a reliable and discerning person/friend who can give you some feedback so that you can improve and grow. An instructor is likely your best bet, but there are others. Collect as many responses as you can.
photo courtesy of Cowbite
Forgiveness and Humour
This may be the most important ingredient for developing your showmanship. Without a little forgiveness and humour, you will want to quit. It is inevitable to make mistakes (forget movements, trip or falter, etc.). If you can maintain perspective, and give yourself a healthy dose of compassion, you will be able to learn and grow as a dancer.
photo courtesy of Az When the temptation to give up comes, try to imagine yourself a month or so in the future. Will your mistakes seem so large and important then? In a year's time, when you look back, you will likely have fond memories of that experience of 'failure'. Especially since by then (if you don't give up), you will have experienced a sense of accomplishment from other performances. Return from "Performance Art" to the "Home Page"
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