A group of young students on stage forming a tableau with a variety of poses.

How to Deal With Problematic Dance Parents

In the competition dance world, with its high stakes and high tensions, difficult parental behavior—from complaining about scoring to offering unsolicited corrections—is especially common and can be seriously disruptive. Yet most dance parents believe they’re acting in their child’s best interest. So what can studio owners, competition directors, and students do to navigate problematic parent […]

a large group of dancers and teacher gathered together for a group photo

Real-Deal Advice on Convention Scholarships

Many competitive dancers are eager to land coveted convention scholarships. But why are these awards so sought-after? How can dancers increase their odds of winning them—and who might they not be right for? The Scholarship Advantage One of the largest benefits to convention scholarships is perhap­s the most obvious: financial relief. Attending conventions­ can be […]

Margaret Jarvie competing on stage wearing a long-sleeved red leotard and performing an arabesque in plie

The Pros and Cons of Competing Independently

Most dancers who participate in competitions and conventions attend with a dance studio. But each year, a small group of soloists opt to go for it as independents, without a studio affiliation. There are plenty of benefits to this approach—as well as a few possible drawbacks. Before you sign up, consider what you’re willing to […]

A large group of dancers onstage at a competition with their fists held over their heads. They are wearing black, red, and gold unitards.

3 Keys to Creating Age-Appropriate Competition Routines

When creating competition routines, the health and safety of young dancers should be a top priority. Definitions of “age-appropriate” choreography vary widely across the competitive-dance scene. It takes a concerted effort to shape pieces that push young dancers artistically and technically while avoiding steps or thematic elements that are too sensual or adult. Establish Guidelines […]

a large group of dancers on stage wearing bright colors and dancing big

How to Craft a Winning Production Number

With elaborate props, costume quick-changes, and dozens of dancers, today’s production numbers are bigger and more extravagant than ever. Onstage, they look magical—but every dazzling spectacle requires extensive planning and rehearsing.
While putting together a multifaceted production number can feel daunting, following a few guidelines can get any large-scale routine started on the right foot.

a group of people putting their hands in the middle of a circle

How to Deal With Mid-Comp-Season Burnout

While full of excitement and fun, competitions are also mentally and physically taxing. It’s easy to find yourself run down after months of rehearsing and performing for hours on end every week. How can both teachers and dancers keep normal fatigue from turning into burnout? By recognizing the telltale signs and making small but meaningful changes.

two dancers smiling and posing with their awards on the competition stage

3 Lasting Pro Dancer Friendships That Were Forged on the Convention Floor

For many dancers, being part of a competitive team is just a short chapter in a long dance journey. But the personal bonds built at competitions and conventions can last a lifetime. These three pairs of dancers who forged their friendships on the comp circuit show that having a tried-and-true teammate in your corner can make a big difference in the professional dance world, too.

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