Getting Ready for your Dance Recital

As we approach the end of the year, many dance studios and groups will have an end of year recital or concert planned.

This is a one-off performance in which you and your fellow dancers showcase the skills and routines you have been working on all year in your dance classes. Usually family and friends will be invited or buy tickets to come and see you perform, there will be exciting dance routines and amazing costumes. Often the venue will be different from your usual dance studio as well.

It’s an exciting and memorable event, and preparation is key to ensuring it goes smoothly and is enjoyable for both performers and the audience. Here’s what you can expect at your dance recital and how to prepare for it.

You will be performing the dance routines you have learned in your dance classes. These routines may vary in style, such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, or any other genre you have been training in. You will have been learning these routines for most of the year and practicing at home too, so you should know these off by heart.

You will likely wear costumes that are individual and appropriate for each of your dance routines. Costumes can be exciting, adding a bit of glitz and glamour to the event and they often add to the overall visual appeal of the performance. You will be issued your costume prior to the concert, so make sure you keep it somewhere safe, usually on a hanger to avoid creases.

Makeup and hair! Depending on the style of dance and the requirements of the recital, you may need to wear stage makeup and have your hair styled in a specific way to ensure you look your best under the stage lights. Your dance studio will normally give you a list detailing what your costume is and also what hair style and makeup you are required to have. Remember that stage makeup is darker and more pronounced than street makeup.

Leading up to the recital, you will have several rehearsals to practice your routines. These rehearsals help ensure that all dancers are in sync with each other and with the music, that you get used to the new stage which can be quite different from just dancing in the studio, and that the performance runs smoothly.

Bring your “Stage Presence!” You’ll be performing on a stage in front of an audience, so you should be prepared to project confidence and perform with energy and enthusiasm. The dancers that really look like they are enjoying themselves on stage are the ones that will attract the eye of the audience, so make sure you have heaps of fun.

It’s important to follow stage directions. Pay attention to your dance teacher or choreographer’s instructions regarding where to stand, where to enter and exit the stage, and any specific movements or formations you need to follow.

Expect an audience made up of family, friends, and potentially other members of the community. The atmosphere is usually supportive and encouraging, as the audience is there to celebrate your hard work and talent. It’s a truly great feeling to dance well and to hear the applause and cat whistles from family and friends at the end. It gives you a great feeling of satisfaction and achievement.

We all get them. Yes, that thing called Nerves! It’s normal to feel nervous before a performance, but remember that nerves can actually enhance your performance by increasing your focus and energy. Practice deep breathing or visualization techniques to help calm your nerves.

Backstage organisation. There will be a backstage area where you and your fellow dancers will prepare before going on stage. Make sure you have all your costume pieces, accessories, and props organized and ready. Take some snacks and bring a bottle of water. You may even want to bring a book or something to occupy you. Often you will be required to stay backstage for the entire performance, or at least for the half you are in, so it can be a long wait.

Most importantly of all, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience. A dance recital is an opportunity to showcase your love for dance and the skills you’ve developed and for your family and friends to recognise the hard work and dedication you have put in.

Here’s some additional advice to help you to prepare in the weeks leading up to your dance recital.

1. **Practice regularly:** Ensure you are consistently attending dance classes and practicing your routines at home. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel on stage.

2. **Listen to your instructor:** Pay close attention to your dance teacher’s feedback and follow their guidance during rehearsals.

3. **Costume and makeup:** Make sure you have all the necessary costumes, accessories, and makeup required for each routine well in advance. Check you have the right tights and that your dance shoes look nice and fit well.

4. **Stay healthy:** Get enough rest, eat well, and stay hydrated in the days leading up to the recital to ensure you have the energy to perform your best.

5. **Warm-up and stretch:** Prior to your performance, warm up and stretch to prevent injuries and ensure your muscles are ready for the demands of dancing.

6. **Mental preparation:** Visualize yourself performing confidently and successfully. Positive visualization can help boost your confidence.

7. **Arrive early:** On the day of the recital, arrive at the venue early to allow time for any last-minute preparations and to get into your costume and makeup.

8. **Supportive mindset:** Remember that everyone makes mistakes from time to time. If you make a small error during your performance, keep going and don’t let it distract you.

9. **Enjoy the moment:** This is your opportunity to shine and share your passion for dance with others. Savor the experience and be proud of your hard work.

By preparing thoroughly and staying focused, you can have a successful and enjoyable dance recital experience. Good luck!