Trying on the Costume
Usually, about a month before the show, a dance student will receive their costume at the studio. Some studios may send the costumes home for the students to try on, but most will try them on with their class to make sure everything fits correctly and no alterations are needed. Once at home, the costume should stay on the hanger, in a garment bag, to keep everything together for the show. It is a good idea, though, to have the dancer put the costume on at home, in a comfortable environment, with the parent. This helps him or her to feel more at ease in the costume, especially hearing how great it looks from mom or dad.

Explain why dancers wear costumes and make-up on stage, and how much fun it will be to wear this very special outfit on their very special day. This is also a good chance to see if anything needs to be sewn or pinned for the performance, and what accessories are needed.

Makeup and Hair Preparation
Most studios will prescribe a certain “look” for the recital, which includes hairstyles and appropriate stage makeup for girls and some form of makeup for boys. Nervous students may find some comfort in doing a dry run of their hair and makeup before the dress rehearsal day.

Sometimes, studios will hold a picture day where a professional photographer comes in to take pictures of the students in their costumes. This is a good thing for first-time students to participate in, since they can see the rest of their classmates in the same costume, hair and makeup. This also allows one more chance for the students to be dressed up in a comfortable setting before the day of the show.

Talking Students through Nervous Times
Each student will probably receive a recital handbook or guide with details on rehearsal times, dress requirements, dressing room numbers, and much more. This is a lot of information to take in, but it is a good idea for a parent or guardian to review everything with a dancer who may be getting nervous a few weeks before the show.

Knowing where they need to be, and at what time, will soothe the students who are afraid of the unknown. If the studio doesn’t have a chance to have a rehearsal at the performance venue, it is a good idea to arrive early to make students familiar with the building, entrances and exits, dressing rooms, and where they can meet back up with you after they are done dancing.

No matter what, a small amount of nerves, anticipation and excitement are normal and necessary for dance students. For dance parents or guardians, teachers and studio owners, it is important to build up these rituals of rehearsal, dry runs, and preparation so that students can feel more at ease.

Foundation should be applied that either matches the dancer’s skin tone, or is slightly darker. Naturally pale-skinned dancers should try to use a foundation that is darker or more pink than their natural tone. To highlight the facial structure and give more emphasis on the face when on stage, use rouge or blush in streaks – across the forehead, across the upper portion of the cheekbones, down the top of the nose, and on the chin. Remember to blend these streaks into the foundation with a sponge, which will create a softer, sun-kissed look.

A lip pencil can be uesd to make smaller lips more prominent. Outline the lips with pencil, and then fill in with a similarly-colored lipstick. Red lipstick is typically used because it stands out on stage, but any shade that is brighter than daily wear (in red or burgundy tones) will work. Using a lipstick that is too dark, or more on the purple side, will look out of place on stage. Many competitive studios will use a certain manufacturer and shade of lipstick so that their dancers are all uniform, so check with your studio to see if they have a particular shade in mind.

All dancers should use eyeliner to emphasize the upper line of the eyelids. To make eyes appear larger, slightly extend the line of the eyeliner from the outside corner of the eye. A smaller line should be used on the lower lids. For eyeshadow, natural colors work best, such as browns or dark purples. The “smoky eye” effect can provide a dramatic look onstage, but may be too much for younger dancers. The point of most stage makeup is to look like a more enhanced version of your natural tones. Whatever colors are used for eyeshadows, remember to put a bright color in the center of the eyelid just above the pupil to make the eye appear to be open wider. A bright blue works best for this technique.

A dark mascara (or false eyelashes for older dancers) will put the finishing touch on the look. Dancers should practice different makeup techniques before the day of the performance, to be sure that all their makeup is in good condition and the looks they create are appropriate for the venue and routine.

Article written by Terry Finch.

But recitals also bring great moments of joy, pride, and accomplishment for both parents and their dancers. This quick recital survival guide will help you prepare for recital season and enjoy your dancer’s special performance to the very fullest.

Early Bird Planning
Plan ahead and keep informed to avoid last minute stress. Here are some ways to stay ahead of the game before your recital.

1. Read informational handouts as soon as they are distributed and mark calendars with important dates.

2. Return participation and costume forms right away, don’t wait until the deadline.

3. Order costumes and accessories early so you have plenty of time for alterations and adding extras like rhinestones or accessories.

4. Take an early inventory of costumes and accessories needed for the performance with special attention to needs for fresh tights, undergarments, shoes, make-up, and hair accessories. Don’t wait until several days before the show to stock up on these items.

5. Make lists of what dances will be performed, and what is needed for each of those dances. List the costume, color and type of tights, shoes, accessories, and any other extras.

6. Practice dances at home often in the weeks leading up to the performance. The more comfortable your dancer is with the choreography, the less nervous they will be on the big day.

7. Be informed about procedures, dates, and times for rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances.

8. Consider volunteering to be a back stage parent or to help out with other performance needs. For large schools, often only a handful of volunteer parents will be allowed back stage to assist the students. If you would like to be behind the scenes with your dancer, volunteering is a great option.

Preparing for the Day of the Show

1. Stay organized. The week before the show, gather your lists of what is needed and organize everything so it can be easily located for the dress rehearsal and the day of the show.

2. Label your costumes and accessories with your student’s name. Members of the same class will have similar looking costumes, tights, and shoes. You’ll want to be able to find yours in a jiffy for quick changes.

3. Get a good rest. Recital days are long and tiring for everyone, and especially younger dances. Being well rested will help you all feel great on the day of the show.

4.  Arrive on time so that your dancer has plenty of time to dress, warm-up, and be ready to hit the stage. Late arrivals cause a great deal of unnecessary stress on the day of a performance.

5. Bring quiet activities, games, water, and healthy snacks for long days. There is often a lot of idle time waiting backstage for your turn to perform. Quiet games, books, and other activities will help pass the time. Pack healthy, non-messy snacks and drinks for long days. Be sure they are allowed in the dressing room and keep potential spills far away from costumes.

6. Consider bringing a small flower arrangement or thoughtful gift to congratulate your dancer. This performance tradition makes every dancer feel extra special after a job well done. Some studios have a tradition of chipping in for a group gift for the teacher, or bring small individual tokens of appreciation to the recital. Ask what is customary at your studio if you are not sure.

7. Relax and enjoy. You’ve done such a wonderful job preparing, and now is the time to sit back, grab that camera, and enjoy watching your little star shine on stage. Give yourself a pat on the back and give your dancer a great big hug for all they have accomplished!

During the winter months dance studios can feel chilly, especially when students first enter. Although students work up a sweat by the end of class, the room may still feel quite cold to students who are just beginning a class. So how do dancers keep warm and cozy when the temperatures start to drop?

In order to keep their muscles warm and prevent injury while preparing for the most strenuous parts of the class, it can be beneficial for students to wear extra layers during warm-ups and stretching. If your teachers allow you to wear warmer layers over your regular dress code (usually a leotard and tights), go ahead and take advantage of this so you can warm-up comfortably and properly.

Today dance warm-ups come in many different colors, styles, and sizes. Choosing warm-up gear can be lots of fun and add style to your dance wardrobe, in addition to keeping those muscles nice and toasty. Here are some suggestions for different styles of dance class.

In ballet, it is important for your teacher to still be able to see your body lines and technique while warming up at the barre. Legwarmers are appropriate, since they keep your lower legs and ankles warm, but do not hide your ankles or feet. Ballet sweaters, or tight-fitting wrap sweaters, or shrugs can help to warm your arms, shoulders and upper back. When wearing a sweater, make sure that it fits snugly so that your body line and arms are still visible. It should also be secured in place, so that you don’t feel the need to adjust it or pull it back on your shoulders after every exercise.

In other dance styles, you may be able to wear sweat pants or a heavier long sleeve shirt over your dress code clothing. When wearing sweatpants, sweatshirts, or other pieces of warm-up gear, make sure that they are as form-fitted as possible and do not cover your hands or feet.

If you would normally warm-up barefoot in a particular class, it may be appropriate to wear socks to keep your feet warm. Be extra careful when doing certain movements in socks because your feet may slip on the floor. To prevent injury, it may be better to wear ballet slippers or another appropriate type of dance shoe if your feet are too cold to begin the class barefoot.

In all cases, it is important to listen to your teachers and follow the policies for dress code and dressing in colder weather. If you are able to wear extra layers for warm-ups, make sure that they are form-fitting, still show your body lines, and do not hide anything. Layers are for keeping your muscles warm and pliable, not for covering up your body. When you have finished warm-ups and begin the class exercises, you should be warm enough to start taking off your extra layers.

Pinterest users have been creating and browsing all types of boards on the popular web site to plan their weddings, put together recipe collections, or browse for inspiration on upcoming projects. Pinterest can also be a fun place for dance students and dance parents to pin favorite dance-related images. Are you on Pinterest? Here are some fun ideas to create dance-themed boards of your own.

CREATE A WISH LIST
You can use Pinterest to create a wish list for birthday gift ideas or your dance recital needs. All About Dance, for example, has pin-it buttons on each item on our website. Many other retailers do as well. Students can create a “Dance Wish List” board on Pinterest and pin favorite items from sites like All About Dance to show parents, grandparents, or whoever needs some help with great gift ideas.

Another idea to help keep organized at recital or show time is to create a “Recital Necessities List” on Pinterest with items that you will need to prepare for the show like costumes, tights, shoes, accessories, make-up, etc. You can share your board with other dance parents, and some dance studios pin recital costume essentials to help keep parents informed.

POST YOUR DANCE STYLE
Create a board with images that reflect your own dance style. You can include different leotards that catch your eye, warm-up gear that you use or would like to have, make-up styles that seem interesting to you, and many others. Find out who else shares your style ideas and follows your board.

PIN YOUR DANCE INSPIRATION
Pinterest can also be a creative place for you to pin your dance inspiration, whether it is photos of professional dancers, pictures of tricks or techniques that you aspire to master, or inspirational dance quotes. Your “Dance Inspiration” board can be a place for you to reflect periodically on the goals you have set and accomplished in the dance season, and a way for you to connect with other dancers who share your passions. If you are looking for inspiration, you can also find boards created by other dancers and students to share with the dance community.

PINTEREST BASICS
Pinterest is a visual pin board where you can post snippets of your online dance life, and anything else that interests you. First you’ll need to sign up for a Pinterest account. Pinterest has an excellent Getting Started guide for new users.

When pinning images on Pinterest, you can pin items from websites using the Pin It button, upload your own images from your computer, or re-pin images that others have posted. A Pinterest board is a set of pins, and boards can have an unlimited number of pins. If you see a board that you like, or a person whose boards you are interested in, you can follow them to see when they are updated. You can even invite those you follow to contribute to one of your own boards if you wish.

Take a peek at the All About Dance boards to get started and find tons of beautiful dance inspiration. Sign up to follow us for fun contests like Pin It to Win It Sweepstakes held several times a year when you can win items from your own wish lists! We hope to see you soon on Pinterest.

1.  Do not ignore pain.

As soon as dancers feel pain, especially in their joints, they should not ignore it. It is important to determine what is causing the pain, whether it is in the ankles after landing jumps, in the back after stretching, or another possibility. If the pain is severe, or is a sensation that has never been felt before, dancers should consult their doctors as soon as possible.

2.  Cool down to reverse muscle strain.

Taking time to “cool down” after class or at the end of the day is also important. Dancers should make time to stretch and cool down while their muscles are still warm from dancing. This will put balance back into the body, and prevent muscle injury from overuse.

3.  Add aerobic exercise to the schedule.

While dancing may be considered an aerobic activity, it does not usually raise the heart rate as much as another aerobic activity would. Much of dance class or performance involves starts and stops, and repetition of movements. Dancers should try to add another aerobic activity into their routine, in order to build stamina for the season.

Good choices for dancers are swimming, cross-training, kayaking, etc. Dancers should try to stay away from jogging or running, at least as a daily activity, because this puts stress on knees and hips which is similar to the stress endured in a dance class. This may exacerbate future joint injuries if used as a daily exercise.

4.  Have an outlet to reduce stress.

The dance season can build up stress in a dancer’s body, so it is important to have an outlet to relieve stress. Stress can be reduced through yoga or stretching, but it is also a good idea to have another hobby outside of the dance studio. Playing an instrument can be a good stress-reliever, or painting, knitting, or other creative hobbies. Scheduling time to indulge in creative works outside of dance can relieve stress and prevent injuries caused by muscle tension.

Another good outlet is having someone available to discuss issues that are causing stress. Many dancers are perfectionists, and classes or performances can be a source of frustration. Having someone they trust to talk to, whether it is a fellow dancer, family member, or trusted friend, can help to relieve stress. Sometimes just knowing that the person is available to talk to is a stress reliever.

Every day, dancers must stretch their bodies in new ways. It is important to remember to cool down, beware of pain, vary exercise routines, and have outlets to relieve stress. All of these things will help dancers to avoid injury and stay healthy throughout the season.

It is important for teachers and parents to set good examples by understanding these factors. All that the dancers are able to control is only their own performance, but teachers and parents can help them deal with disappointments.

Sandwich a Negative with Two Positives

Returning to the studio after competition is a good time to give constructive criticism to the students. This means voicing something that could be viewed as negative between two compliments. Start by giving a compliment about the routine, such as “The pirouettes we worked on last week were more in sync,” or express empathy, with “There were some very polished routines in your category.”

The second statement can include something the dancers should work on: “Remember, the judges are looking for technically solid performances, so your feet must be pointed every time they leave the floor.” Finally, finish the sandwich with a forward-looking statement, like “There will be more opportunities for us to excel this year. We will work on what we need to, and return even stronger.”

Keep Personal Issues Out of the Conversation

It is possible that a student, teacher or parent worked with one of these particular judges in the past.  If the scores do not match up with expectations, it does not mean that this judge is “out to get” anyone. The judge may not remember, or may not even associate individuals with a particular routine. Whatever personal issues may have been present in the past with a judge, competition company, rival studio, or other teachers, they should be put aside.

Also, teachers and parents should treat competing studios with respect. By showing the students a good example in dealing with other studios, a friendly sense of competition can be fostered, instead of building feelings of resentment.

Use Critiques to Develop Dancers, Not Attack Them

While at a competition, with adrenaline pumping, it can be easy for parents or teachers to call out students for their errors; however, this kind of criticism will be ignored by a dancer who feels attacked.  If an error was made, it is better to speak with the dancers in private.  Phrases like “what can we do to…” or “how can I help you to…” are better ways to bring about improvements.  By engaging in dialogue, rather than pointing fingers, everyone can feel that they are a part of the solution and have a sense of pride when the piece is performed correctly.  It will benefit everyone involved to put all drama aside, before, during and after a competition.

If, as a teacher or choreographer, you do see something that is very wrong in a piece, make note of it. It is probably not something that should be worked out in the wings at that very competition, and definitely not something to attack the dancers for backstage, in front of other performers. When you return to the studio, take the necessary time to effectively correct the mistakes. Let the students know that you value their time and effort, and the dancers and routine will be much improved for the next competition.

Different studios and teachers will have their own policies and guidelines, but the following additional tips will help you stand out as a committed and conscientious dance student.

Taking Correction and Direction

1. Try to accept criticism and corrections well.  Try to fix your teacher’s corrections immediately or ask questions if you need clarification, instead of rolling your eyes, slouching, or sighing.  Take a deep breath, drink some water, relax and try to continue doing your best.
2. Try to remember any corrections for the next class as well.  This will help your teacher to move forward in the lessons instead of needing to stop and make the same corrections each week.
3. When another student is being corrected, make sure you are doing the movement correctly as well and practice the correct movement a few times.  Otherwise, the teacher will have to repeat the same corrections over and over.  Also, when a student is praised for doing something well, make sure you are performing the movement in the same way.
4. If the teacher asks a question, reply, especially if you don’t understand something.  If the class stays silent, you may miss an important tip to understand the movement better.
5. If, at the end of class, you are still upset with a mistake or correction, see your teacher and ask if there is a time you can speak privately.  You will want to give your teacher time to talk, and rushing between classes is not the best time to give you his or her full attention.

Be a Leader in Class

1. When moving across the floor, start when the person in front of you completes the exercise.  Begin immediately without waiting for the teacher to cue you each time.  This helps to move the class forward, and allows your teacher to focus on making corrections, rather than counting each group in.
2. If the teacher asks for volunteers for an exercise, volunteer.  Everyone will have to do the exercise at some point. By being the first, you may get more detailed corrections, and your teacher will appreciate your effort.
3. Try to set specific dance goals for this year.  For example, “get right and left splits all the way down by spring break,” or “have a clean triple pirouette by the first competition.” It is a good idea to tell your teacher what your goals are, so that he or she can provide extra guidance and support during the year.

Finally, make an attempt to smile in class this year.  A smile shows that you like what you are doing.  Not only will it make your teacher happy, it will rub off on the other students in the classroom, and your dance experience will be that much more enjoyable.  It will also prepare you for performing on the stage.  Have a great year!

Arriving at Class

1. Always come into the studio on time.  It is a good idea to try to arrive 10-15 minutes early for class.  If for any reason you are not able to arrive before class begins, enter the room quietly.  Go to the back and warm up quickly on your own and then join the rest of the class.
2. If you have a coat or bag, leave them in a designated area in the studio room, lobby or dressing room, not on the floor where someone could trip on them.
3. While waiting in the lobby before and after classes, don’t shout, disturb a class in progress, or leave a mess.
4. If you need to leave early, tell the teacher at the beginning of class.  This will allow you to leave when needed without interrupting the other students.

Dress Code and Appearance

1. Never chew gum during class.  Not only does it distract you and alter your breathing, you could swallow or choke on it.  It could also fly out of your mouth and land in someone else’s hair!
2. If you forget a piece of clothing or shoes, see the teacher before class.  You may be able to borrow items from the studio or another student, or wear something else instead.
3. Secure your hair neatly away from your face before class begins, and make sure it remains secure for the duration of the class.  If you have bangs, it is a good idea to pin them back or wear a headband that will stay in place during class.

Respect Your Fellow Dancers

1. During class, stop all outside conversations and focus on the lessons.  This shows respect to your teachers and fellow students, and helps to accomplish more in the class time.
2. If someone is new to class, volunteer to be his or her partner.  Your teacher will appreciate you welcoming new students.
3. Be polite to others, including other students, teaching assistants, and the teacher.  Also, be on your best behavior when the class is being observed by outside visitors or other staff members, especially the studio owner.
4. At the end of class, applaud and thank your teacher.  This is a sign of respect and lets your teachers know that you appreciate their time and efforts.

Starting off the school year in the right way will set a good tone for the season.  See Part II of this article for more tips to use during class.

Sprained Ankles

A trip, a mis-step, or possibly an old injury that has gone untreated can cause an ankle sprain, as well as constant use of the feet without enough rest, and wearing restrictive shoes in or out of rehearsals. Dancers should watch for sharp pain, swelling, and impaired range of motion. In treating an ankle sprain, a doctor may prescribe crutches or braces to stabilize the ankle. Dancers should take time for ankle strengthening exercises to get back into shape after a sprain.

Stress Fractures

Jumping and stomping in shoes without enough shock absorption, or especially in bare feet, can cause stress fractures in the feet. Over time, the muscles in the feet will absorb the vibrations from the floor, and eventually the bones will begin to absorb it. Too much strain will cause a stress fracture in the foot. Dancers should be aware of any constant pain that worsens when weight is placed on the foot, as well as swelling and tenderness to the touch.

A fracture can be diagnosed with an X-ray or MRI. Resting and applying ice to the foot will help to ease the pain, and a doctor may prescribe a walking boot or crutches. Dancers should follow their doctor’s orders in regards to the waiting and healing period before dancing again.

Tendonitis

Like a stress fracture, tendonitis is caused by repetitive stress to the foot. Dancers should look for continuous soreness around the ankle, or a dull pain in the heel. When dancers increase their work load, especially to prepare for a competition or performance, their muscles and tendons may not be strong enough.

Dancers should try to build up gradually to a full schedule, to prevent tendonitis from forming. Rest and ice, stretching and strengthing the feet and ankles, and taping during class can also help to prevent or alleviate tendonitis. Dancers should always be sure to warm up before class or performance, to include stretching the feet and ankles.

Dance-related injuries can hinder growth, and can sideline a dancer for an entire season. Dancers should pay attention to any pain or swelling in their feet or ankles, and should see a doctor immediately if any of the signs above appear.