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It’s showtime! You’ve rehearsed for hours and now it’s time to perform. Performing can be a thrilling experience and a great opportunity to showcase your hard work and artistry. Whether you’ve been performing on stage for years or a first-timer, below are tips that can help you prepare for the big day.
Practice Like You’ll Perform
Rehearsals are an important time to learn choreography, perfect moments of connection, and ensure the movement is in sync. Using a mirror early in the process is extremely helpful. It’s a great tool to ensure proper alignment and to correct mistakes.
However, at some point, sooner rather than later, l suggest removing the mirror. This will ensure dancers are not becoming dependent on the mirror for cues or relying on others. If you have separate rehearsals, practice away from the mirror as well. This is great preparation for the stage and beginning to work on your outward gaze and stage presence.
Energy
Every chance you have rehearse the movement at 110%. This will begin to build your stamina so you aren’t winded during the performance. Practicing this way will also identify areas in the piece where you can conserve your energy and prepare for high-energy moments within the piece.
Rehearsing with emotion and character is also important. For some, this may feel difficult or uncomfortable. But the sooner you can begin to convey the emotion through your movement and stage presence, the better prepared you’ll be for the performance.
Above and Beyond
Throughout this process, you may realize additional time and effort is required outside your regular rehearsals. You may need to increase stamina, do additional strength training or schedule additional time to practice partner work. Whatever it is, don’t hesitate to take the additional steps to prepare yourself to be your best when it’s time to perform.
Costume and Accessories
Once you have details of your costume I recommend purchasing all items, including shoes and accessories ahead of your performance. You don’t want to rush and purchase items last minute. A great site to purchase some of the items you’ll need is Discount Dance. You can find anything from dance shoes, tights, and accessories which may be required for your performance.
- Try on your items at home to make sure everything fits correctly. There is typically a dress rehearsal, but I would try on items beforehand. Try on all pieces of your costume. So, all pants, tights, undergarments, shoes, shirts etc. Taking this extra step will identify if something isn’t fitting correctly or if you need to purchase additional items. It will also give insight into items that need to be steamed, ironed, pinned, or sewn ahead of your performance or dress rehearsal.
- If makeup is required, I would practice the application before the performance. This is helpful especially if you aren’t used to applying your own makeup or lashes. Also, take inventory of things you have and all items that you need to look your best on stage.
Conclusion: You Got This
Preparing for a dance performance requires more than just rehearsal. It takes dedication, hard work, organization, as well as physical and mental preparation. Always ensure that you are taking care of yourself. Get the rest you need, stretch, and stay nourished and energized. Visualize the performance with you executing each step with confidence. Remember to stay positive, confident, and leave it all on the stage.
Helpful Resources to Prepare
- Dance Items at Discount Dance
- Dance Shoes
- Performance Lashes
- Steamer
- Resistance Bands