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Many dance studios request volunteer assistance from parents at this point in the year. Whether it is for backstage help at the recital, selling merchandise such as recital t-shirts or flowers, or transporting scenery and props to the recital venue, studio owners and teachers will require some extra hands and support. Why Volunteer on Top [...]

For many children, especially those about to experience their first dance recital, nerves and jitters on the big day can be difficult to overcome. Some nervousness is actually a good thing. Adrenaline pumping before taking a step onto the stage can keep a dancer’s energy up throughout the performance. However, being too nervous can make [...]

Based on the story of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffman, The Nutcracker ballet was first created in the late 1800s. This year marks the 220th anniversary of the debut performance of The Nutcracker on December 5, 1892 danced by The Russian Imperial Ballet and choreographed by Marius Petipa. Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky [...]

Back-to-school season, for many children and teens, also means back-to-dance, back-to-sports, back-to-theater, back-to-band, back-to-homework, and any other number of things. Here are some tips for parents to help their dance students prepare for, and survive, a busy school year! Preparation is key. Before the season begins, your child will probably start receiving schedules for dance [...]

Back-to-school season also means back-to-dance season!  For those students who are attending their first dance class ever, the dance studio is an exciting yet unfamiliar world.  Here are some tips for parents and students to feel more prepared for their first steps into the dance studio. Now that you’ve registered for classes and received your [...]

Dancers, especially those in intermediate-to-advanced classes, may be presented with opportunities to take classes from professional choreographers or performers. This is often called a master class. Master classes can occur at a convention, at your own studio, or after a performance. In any case, a master class is a wonderful opportunity for dancers to learn [...]

With the great number of personalities involved in dance studio life, there are often times when individual opinions clash and sensitive situations arise. Here are some tips for dealing with negative situations and individuals to keep the peace and set a positive example at the studio. Distance Yourself from Negative Individuals Does your studio have [...]

There are many reasons to continue, or begin, taking dance classes as an adult. Whether your studio has adult-specific classes, or you will be included in student classes at your ability level, many studios offer excellent options for adult dancers. Goal-Setting for Adult Dancers Setting specific and measurable goals will help you get the most [...]

Dance moms, dads, grandparents, and other caregivers take on active roles in their children’s dance activities, whether they are dancing for fun, taking part in competitions, or preparing for a professional dance career.  At a time when dance moms may be gaining a questionable reputation on reality television, here are some tips on how you [...]

The bustling winter dance season has hit full swing with dance parents rushing between Nutcracker rehearsals, school concerts, and basketball practice, while still trying to squeeze in some time for holiday shopping, office parties, and cookie decorating. But the cooler temperatures of the winter season extend long past the holidays, and for dancers that brisk [...]