Dress Rehearsals

“Dancers are instruments, like a piano the choreographer plays.”

-George Balanchine

Before a studio presents their choreography, or show on a stage either for a single performance, recital, competition or tour they will need to have a run through dress rehearsal. This process takes planning, an extensive amount of time to carry out.

Before anything can happen the dancers must first be taught the choreography. Then master the choreography by themselves, without reliance on others or questions over the moves. Once that is accomplished, the director should feel confident in putting the piece on stage.

To be sure a director can hold a private, casual show, for example my dance studio holds a run through of all the competition numbers about two or three weeks before competition, in our largest dance room. The room has no mirrors so it is a casual feel of what it will be like on stage. To add to the experience have parents sit in the front to spectate as audience members. Also to improve the routines in later weeks have faculty write down critiques for all the dancers and classes. In addition to the run through, remember to run it on a tight schedule, the dancer’s don’t need to be rushed necessarily, but they shouldn’t be lollygagging around for a long time either. The purpose is to dance so get moving and show off their dancing talents. Hopefully this helps to provide a smooth competition season.

As recital time comes near, book the performance hall the whole week before the weekend performance shows. Have dancers do full hair, makeup and costumes. Use music, lighting, props, curtains to demonstrate and have a feel for how the show will actually come out on the actual recital date. It is especially important to keep things moving this week, recital does not provide breaks, therefore the dancer’s need to know exactly how much time they have to prep for their next performance on the busy night. Watch the show with a careful eye, stay calm as the pressure will be stressful, just think about the outcome when you get to see the whole show top to bottom on the final day. It will feel incredible and accomplishing, and totally worth it.

For dance tours after competition and recital, you can prep by going to venues or dance for a charity, also use recital as a prep. Tours will usually hold majority veterans and a lot of talent that know how to deal with pain, stress and exhaustion.

Best of luck to all dancers, companies and directors on productive run through dress rehearsals that lead to seamless performances.

~Julia Brewer