History, Categories, and Prizes
History
The Belly Dancer of the Year Pageant was founded by Sula. When Sula passed away in 1978, her son asked Leea Aziz to continue producing BDOY, as it was Sula's proudest accomplishment. Now in it's 36th year, Leea has produced BDOY in Sula's honor since 1979.
At first, there was only one category for soloist and the event was held in very small venues. In 1979, the Troupe category was added at the request of Kattoura/Ginny. Later, the Grand Dancer category was added at the request of Halame, and, finally, the Duet Category was added. Several years ago, the BDOY Committee decided to change the Duet category to Duo/Trio.
BDOY is now an international event, and "Belly Dancer of the Year" is recognized as the premier title in belly dancing. It opens the door to teaching workshops, starring in performances, and DVD appearances. Previous winners include Aziza (2002), Judeen (1993), and Alexandra King (1988). The goal of BDOY is to give qualified dancers a fair and equal opportunity to exhibit their skills, as well as promote and elevate the art of belly dance and support its amazing community.
Categories
Belly Dancer of the Year
Time Limits: 7 minutes max for Preliminaries and 10 minutes max for Finals
Entry Fee: $100
Number of Slots: 22 Now only 13!
This is a solo category, and the only category with a preliminaries round. Ten finalists will be selected to compete in the Finals.
Troupe of the Year
Time Limit: 10 minutes max
Application Fee: $125
Number of Slots: 6 5 slots left!
At least four dancers must be on stage at all times during the performance. No solos, duets, or trios are permitted in this category. Not all the dancers on the stage must be dancing at any given time. Normal breaks between dance numbers are permitted. Musical instruments may be played, but musicians must also perform as dancers. The winning troupe will be introduced from the stage at the close of the Finals, and is invited back the following year to lead off the Finals.
Duo/Trio of the Year
Time Limit: 8 minutes maximum
Application Fee: $75
Number of Slots: 6 5 slots left!
Two or three dancers must be dancing at all times, but normal breaks between dance numbers are permitted. Solos are not permitted in this category. The winning Duo/Trio will be introduced from the stage at the close of the Finals.
Grand Dancer of the Year
Time Limit: 8 minutes maximum
Application Fee: $75
Number of Slots: 6 Now only 2 slots left!
As posted above, Grand Dancers must be at least 45 years of age. The winning Grand Dancer is invited to dance (not compete) as the starring performer at the close of the Finals the following day. If the winning Grand Dancer would prefer, he/she may be introduced only and not perform.
Prizes
Belly Dancer of the Year
Winner - $500 and Trophy
1st Runner Up - $200 and Trophy
2nd Runner Up - $100 and Trophy
3rd Runner Up - Trophy
4th Runner Up - Trophy
Congeniality - Trophy
Troupe of the Year
Winner - $250, Trophy, and a Medal for Each Troupe Member
1st Runner Up - $100 and Trophy
2nd Runner Up - Trophy
Congeniality - Trophy
Duo/Trio of the Year
Winner - $250 and Trophy
1st Runner Up - Trophy
2nd Runner Up - Trophy
Congeniality - Trophy
Grand Dancer of the Year
Winner - $250 and Trophy
1st Runner Up - Trophy
2nd Runner Up - Trophy
Congeniality - Trophy
Complete BDOY rules and regulations can be found on the Application & Information page.