IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Details! Details! Details! It's all in the details. Just like you make sure to dot every "i" and cross every "t" before moving forward with a contract, the same needs to be done with a piece before it is performed for the public. Costumes need to be fitted property, headpieces should be secured, makeup should be appropriate for stage lighting, music should checked, and the piece should be clean and easy to watch.

When it comes to competition pieces, what the judges see is more important than what anyone else sees. Most of the time, they are seated right at the foot of the stage, and the view from there is quite different from the majority of the audience. Before putting a piece on the competition stage, or any stage for that matter, try sitting on the floor in front of your dancers to see exactly what they see. What you will notice is that the piece looks much different from this perspective. From the judges' angle, you notice many more details than when you are standing in front of your class. For example, you may notice dancers using a variety of preparations for turns, using opposite feet on transitions, dancers using a turnout vs. some using parallel. You may also notice different arm and hand placements. All of these things need to be corrected prior to the performance for a clean and polished look. Even if the movement happens quickly, if it is even slightly different, the piece will not be clean. An important detail that is often overlooked is head placement and facial expressions. Head placement and facial expressions should match. This also includes focus. Where are the dancers looking? They need to look in the same direction. I suggest that you watch solos from the floor too. Soloists need to be secure in the same details as duets, trios, and groups.

When working on costuming, remember that details make a difference in the overall performance. Costumes that fit property, and match the theme and style of the piece well, only enhance your performance. Adding beautiful bead and trim work, rhinestones, appliqués, etc, usually add to the overall appeal, and they catch the eye of the judges and audience.

Dress rehearsals are incredibly important for numerous reasons. Here are just a few;

• Dancers are able to become comfortable with their costumes, and how to adjust with quick changes
• Costuming problems can be identified and solved
• Parents or helps have an opportunity to understand how to aid with quick changes
• Teachers and choreographers can make sure that the staging works and have an opportunity to make necessary adjustments
• Music edits can be checked so they are ready for submission.

Whether dress rehearsals are held on a stage or in a dance studio, they are invaluable to a successful performance and/or competition. It is a chance to pay attention to the details.

When you have a clean, well-rehearsed number that is costumed appropriately for the piece, neatly with all accessories secured, you have a performance that is enjoyable to watch, well received, and memorable! You have to pay attention to the details in training, in rehearsals, in costuming, and even in music selection to be the total package! It's all in the details!

Dance hard. Dance smart.

Meredith
thecompetitiveedgebymeredith.blogspot.com

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