I remember vividly my first dance comp. Well, OK - I can dream...correction...my first time taking my little Miss to her first dance comp. Four dances spread over twelve hours - don't get me started on competition scheduling - I will leave for another day. Let's just say that some competitions do it very well and others do not.
Before I get into the tips for dancers, a quick note on surviving these days as parents. There is nothing low key about dance comps. Low hair buns, high hair buns, space buns, giselles, pony's, bubble braids and let's not forget the makeup, false eyelashes, loud music, strict schedules, logistics and big emotions! If you are prone to sensory overload, count yourself forewarned...
Firstly - you are amazing and you will survive. Your life will be made easier if you pack all the costumes the night before (or earlier if you are super organised). Bring water an open mind, banana for sustenance (I was at a comp for 5 hours which had no food) and trust the process. It may appear to be total chaos when you arrive however it all works on the day...and if you are like me and in sensory overload simply thinking about the next dance comp - remember to breathe.
Rise to the moment
This is your chance to showcase your talent, your dedication and your artistry. You know your routine, you know your transitions, your choreography and the musical cues. You have been rehearsing your dance every week with your friends in lead up to this moment. Trust yourself - you have done the work and now this is your chance to showcase.
Preparation
Have everything ready the night before - this will allow you to focus on calmly getting ready. This involves:- Costume - Pack your costume in a garment bag to protect it. If you have multiple, pack in garment bags and have all the socks, dance shoes, hair accessories in the garment bag matching the right costume.
- Hair - Understand from the dance school the first hairstyle that is required on the day. Say this is a ballet bun, lay out on the table the brushes, hairpins, hair accessories, smoothing brushes, hair ties and hair products. The Ballet Balm absolutely as your foundational hair product and if you need a little extra, hairspray.
- Makeup - Lay out all competition makeup. Your dance school should have instructions on what is expected.
- Extra tights- just because things happen to delicate things!<
- Snacks & Water | Pack according to how long your are there and assume there will be no food on the day just in case there is not!
Arrival
Arrive 20 mins early. This allows you to become familiarise with the venue and get excited with your friends. Maybe even to ask another Mum to attach your eyelashes ?! You can also use this time to warm up and stretch your body.
Mental Preparation
Remember how I said there is nothing low key about dance competitions? It is true and you may feel butterflies and nervous energy. This is totally normal and actually can be channeled into your performance. If you feel a overwhelmed by nerves, a few tips to calm your self:- Visualise - imagine yourself performing your routine. You are powerful, intentional and flawless.
- Positive self-talk - You have put in the work. You know the routine. You can perform the routine. You know you can. You are a beautiful, powerful, strong dancer. Say these words to yourself. Repeat. Believe it.
- Breathe - breathe deeply through your nose and out through your mouth. Focus on counting while breathing in, one, two three four and then out to six. The counting and breathing will help you ground yourself and calm your nerves.
Competition Etiquette
There are many dancers across multiple dance schools all of whom are there to compete and enjoy the day. It is very important to be respectful and considerate of other dancers from your own school and competing schools. When dancers are on the stage, you need to be quiet. Support your fellow dancers, sometimes there are some big emotions and supporting each other is a beautiful moment of connection between dancers. Be positive and encourage each other.
Dance like nobody is watching!
When it is your moment to step onto the stage, do it like you mean it. Be confident and intentional. Smile, connect with the audience and remember to have fun because this is your change to #makeyourpointeAmber x