Fire Dancing FAQ
Here are some answers to common questions, and some more specifics about what we do.
- How long does the show usually last?
- What are your rates? I can't seem to find them anywhere on the website?
- How far in advance do I need to book?
- How much space do you need?
- Can you do indoor shows?
- Do you have insurance?
- How dangerous is the show? Have you ever had an accident?
- What are poi?
- Do I need to get a fire permit?
- I'm not sure what time it will get dark. What time should the show start?
- I don't see the theme I want on your website. Do you have any that aren't listed?
- What's the best way to contact you with my questions?
How long does the show usually last?
Our show length (and prices) are based on the number of dancers you book. With one dancer the show generally lasts about 10-15 minutes, a 2 dancer show lasts 15-20 minutes, and a 3 dancer show lasts 25-30 minutes.
We are definitely flexible with the show lenghts, and will do our best to accommodate your event.
Our rates are based on the number of dancers you book and vary depending on theme, city, and number of sets. Prices always include at least one fire safety person for fire shows, and/or a setup and support person for black light shows.
In general, our least expensive light shows are around $199 and fire shows start at $249. The prices go up from there along with elaborateness and size of the show.
To get a customized rate-quote, fill out our rate request form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can!
We start booking more than a month in advance, but we can often handle requests for just a few days away. To get your first choice of times and themes, it's best to give 3-4 weeks lead-time.
Our busiest times are Friday and Saturday evenings just after sunset. Later nights and weeknights tend to be a bit more open.
Call us at (510) 367-4517 or fill out the rate request form to find out our availability.
We require a 12 x 12 ft space, minimum, for a solo show. Larger shows require 18x18 ft minimum. If the event is indoors, we prefer a ceiling height of at least 15-18 feet.
There should be at least two clear and unobstructed exits from the performance area (so we don't have to thread our way through a crowd with fuel-covered tools). If the event is indoors, good ventilation is essential.
A secure dressing area where we can store our gear and personal belongings for the duration of the event is optional, but very much appreciated.
Yes, we can and have done a lot of indoor shows. We've performed inside the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco in the grand ballroom, inside office conference rooms, and inside dance clubs. For public indoor shows a permit is usually required - see our permits page for more information on obtaining permits.
Yes. Fire Pixie is insured for up to $2MM per dancer through Clowns of the US.
How dangerous is the show? Have you ever had an accident?
For fire shows we always bring at least one dedicated and trained safety person along with us to the show. We have never had an accident at a show where the fire got out of our immediate control, and the only injuries have been minor performer burns (nothing worse than we get while practicing).
Read our safety page for more info!
Poi are also known as fire chains. They are a 2-3 foot length of chain or cable with a wick attached to one end and a secure handle on the other end. The performer swings the poi around her body as she dances. Many of the photos you see on the website are taken of fire poi in action.
If your show is indoors on commercial or public property, you may need to obtain a fire permit. Permit regulations vary by city, and each city has slightly different rules and processes. Find out more about permits on our permit page.
I'm not sure what time it will get dark. What time should the show start?
Use our sunset clock to calculate sunset and full dark on the day of your show. Full dark generally falls a half hour after sunset, and we often like to start the shows just before full dark falls - twilight shows can be really beautiful.
I don't see the theme I want on your website. Do you have any that aren't listed?
Yes! We have done a large number of "one-off" shows that aren't listed on the web site since we didn't think they had mass appeal. We can also create a custom show to match your unique party theme, or we can keep it simple and stay away from themes, and just come out and dance.
What's the best way to contact you with my questions?
We are in the office during business hours most days. The best way to reach us is by phone at (510) 367-4517 or via email at info@firepixie.com. We try to respond as soon as we can, but we're generally a little quicker at returning phone calls than emails. If you don't hear from us in a day or two, please feel free to call again - we're probably swamped!