Whenever I plan a show, I think about which students would be the most suitable for that particular show.

Attending my classes practically guarantees the opportunity to perform at my Class Haflas and annual Recital.
However, performing with me at other venues is either by “open call” or by invitation. Even the PRISM Rehearsal Club members are not guaranteed a performance spot in any show.

"PRISM" is not a troupe with set membership. That is the name of whatever group of students are performing with me at a show, whether they are beginners or advanced. That means any one of my students may be considered a PRISM Dancer,  no matter which class they're in or how many times they've performed.
  
Performing is part of the art of bellydance, and my job is to teach what I've learned about bellydance to whomever wants to learn; I have no favorites or special friends among my students as I think that would be unprofessional and unfair as well.

When I am planning a show, I consider the venue, and how high the expectations are for the performers. Is it a paying show (private party, First Night/VA, Multicultural Fair)? Is it a charity, reduced rate, or free performance (nursing home, Women’s Forum, etc.)?

Then I decide whether it is an “open call” or "by invitation" type of show. If it's by invitation, first I see whether that student follows the Performer’s Agreement. Then I think about how each student functions in class, at rehearsals, and shows. I look at qualities like these:

• preparedness - do they come to class, rehearsals, shows, with what was asked for previously (costume, veil, etc.)?

• punctuality - are they consistently late? This is often a daily and unconscious trait in someone’s life, and can be very difficult for others they’re working with
  

• reliability - do they show up when expected, or are they absent without giving notice?
  

• improvement - in technique and understanding, signifying practise at home

• good attitude - do they seem glad to be there or more like they’re granting a favor?

• humility - do they take corrections well or do they bristle defensively, and offer long explanations?

• inner light - can they perform with self-confidence; do they "give" to the audience, or does their dancing seem wooden and empty?

• sociability - does their presence foster “a family feeling”, do they share themselves freely or are they closed off into their own world?

• stability - do they evidence a calm joy in learning or performing; can they take corrections without “losing steam” & faltering? Do they distract others with erratic behaviour or acting-out?

You see I take performing very seriously, and I consider it a privilege, not a right. The audience deserves the best we can do for them.

I hope this helps you understand why I may ask certain people for certain shows, and if you have any questions please let me know. If you don't understand why I judged someone appropriate for a show over someone else - remember the element of mercy may be involved.