Preparing you (and your child) for an important dance performance can be stressful, but our expert tips can make your experience smoother and stress-free. In this article, we’ll share all the information you need to ensure you’re the most prepared dance parent so your child can shine on stage. Let’s go!
- Bring a reusable bag for easy storage
At many competitions and rehearsals, your studio expects performers to arrive and depart in their studio uniform. Dancers need to get changed into their costumes as close to the performance time as possible to make sure the costumes are kept clean and crease-free. So this means there is a bit of a mad rush for performers to get changed. This is when items can go missing! duh duh dahhhh!
Bring a reusable bag with your name on it and just chuck those clothes inside your bag and hang it next to your costume bag.
- This leads me to my next tip – Label EVERYTHING
Stuff goes missing! If you ever want to have your Frank Green water bottle or your cosmetic bag returned, it’s important to have your name and even your phone number on it. At the end of the day, when there are so many people sharing a space getting ready it’s easy to lose something and your name doesn’t mean anything to a cleaner. So it’s good to include your name and phone number or even your studio name so there is more chance of your lost property making its way back to you.
- Costume Bag Checklist
So you have your stuff labelled a spare bag but what about making sure you’ve packed everything? You might have noticed on your costume bags there is a pocket for a card or label of some type. For years I’ve thought it’s for a giant name label… but really your name doesn’t need to be that massive. And I use personally use sticker name labels anyway.. so what do you do with this pocket? I’ve found this is the best place to stick a list with all your costume details and accessories. This can also be a bit of a checklist to make sure you don’t leave the venue with a missing hair clip, earring or glove. Check out our free printable Costume Bag checklist label here.
- Scope out the venue
You don’t want to be in a flurry come comp day so it always pays to be prepared. Look up the venue on Google Maps, and work out your driving times, route and parking options. If you can, visit the venue beforehand to find out where the dressing rooms, toilets and canteen are (if available). It always helps to view the competition’s socials and website for any information that could be handy. Don’t forget to give them a like and follow just in case you want to tag them when you upload your own content. A great studio should provide you with all the details of the venue including parking, maps, any additional expected costs (like parking), whether there is food available on the premises etc.
- A good night’s sleep
It’s so important to be well-rested for any event. Being tired and exhausted can affect your energy levels and performance quality. So aim for a decent night’s sleep. I know it’s easier said than done because of competition nerves. Make sure you do everything you can to wind down in the lead-up for sleep – set your alarms, put your phone on do not disturb, listen to relaxing music, include some aromatherapy and have all your costume and packing items done. I always find that once everything is ready, you no longer worry about all the things you have to do the next day but can focus on getting a good night’s sleep.
- A decent meal
Aim for a good meal 2 to 3 hours before a performance. Include foods that provide a steady release of energy over time – like oats topped with nuts, yoghurt, fruits and berries. Or enjoy an egg and salad wholegrain sandwich with a banana. Eggs are full of high-quality protein and amino acids that help repair and build muscle tissue. Wholegrain bread provides that steady release of energy whilst bananas are rich in potassium and carbs providing an energy boost and supporting your muscle function.
- Spare Stockings
Right before the latest competition I bought 2 pairs of brand new stockings. Sure enough, both got holes in them after one wear. These stockings fade considerably within a few washes so it’s super important to have a fresh pair for competitions and concerts and a spare in case of a snag on a sequin, a makeup stain etc.
- Stay Grounded
Your performer has dedicated months of hard work to perfecting their routines, and as a parent, you have been there to support them every step of the way. While it’s natural to feel caught up in the excitement of the competition or concert (I know I have) it’s important to remember that the real celebration lies in the progress made throughout the journey, not just in one performance. Whether they win or lose, it’s the effort and dedication that truly counts. Let’s celebrate the journey, not just the destination.
As a dance parent, your preparedness and organisation are key to your child’s success on stage. Our tips, tricks and free printable costume bag checklist will help you stay on top of everything. Familiarising yourself with the venue and prioritising rest and nutrition will ensure your child performs at their best. With these tips, you can be a confident support crew in your child’s journey and help them shine on stage. Chookas!
Chookas Australia 