It’s almost showtime! CVDA’s annual showcase is set for May 23rd and May 24th at Bauman Auditorium on the George Fox University campus. Click here to buy your tickets.
Between now and then, the intensity (in various classes) may seem like it’s ramping up….and it is. The instructors and dancers are working doubly hard to perfect routines, make sure costumes arrive, and take care of all the extra details that make the showcase such a memorable event.
It takes a village to pull off an extraordinary performance and make it a positive, rewarding experience for your dancer. Here at CVDA, we value our partnership with families. We couldn’t do this without your support and help!
We’d like to share with you some tips we’ve learned over the years that make the whole showcase experience smoother and (relatively) drama-free:
One to two months out
- Buy “you provide” pieces. Some costumes require “regular” street clothes. If you’re not sure, check with the instructor to find out if non-custom pieces are needed.
- Buy fresh makeup, eyelashes (if required), and hair accessories.
- Share the date/time/location and invite family and friends.
- Buy your tickets.
- Ink up the calendar with all the important dates/times/location from the showcase packet: photo day, rehearsal days, call times, etc.
- Make sure your dancer attends all classes (illness is an exception, of course) and attends make-up classes if applicable.
One week prior
- Get your dancer(s) to bed at a reasonable time each night so they are well-rested.
- Arrive 10 minutes early for each photo session with makeup on, hair done, and costumes in tow.
- Arrive 10 minutes early for rehearsal times.
- Bring water and healthy, protein-packed snacks for the rehearsal day.
- If possible, cut back on unnecessary activities. It’s already a busy, go-go week. Things like homework you won’t have control over, but if you have a choice, it’s best to simplify your dancer’s schedule.
- Lay out costumes, makeup, and hair accessories. Pack your dance bag and hang costumes. Label costume pieces/hangers/garment bags with name of each dance.
The night before your dancer should
- Eat a well-balanced dinner.
- Don’t forget to pack leotards, extra tights, dance shoes, deoderant, etc.
- Review the transportation plan so everyone knows times, drivers, etc.
- Have a mellow evening to facilitate a restful night’s sleep.
The day of
- Allow extra time to drive to the auditorium and get your dancer situated backstage. Rushing causes stress! They’re already nervous, so leave early and stay calm.
- Follow backstage protocol:
Emily with her family after The Nutcracker
1. Sign dancer in.
2. Report to volunteer position if you have one (parents are not allowed backstage unless they are volunteering)
3. No family or friends allowed backstage. You can connect with your dancer after the show.
4. The dancers will be excused directly from the stage after the awards.
- Give your dancer lots of positive feedback, hugs, etc. regardless of her performance. Presenting her with a flower or small gift is a nice gesture.
- Bring a thank you card and/or small gift for the instructors.
The Annual Showcase is our favorite day of the entire year. What a fabulous culmination of your dancer’s hard work, dedication, and growth! It’s truly a day to be celebrated and shared with loved ones.
Thank you for doing all you do to make the Annual Showcase a success and positive experience for your dancer!