Dancers want to be successful in class and push themselves to get as much out of class as possible. To achieve this here are some simple suggestions to make sure your dancer is getting the most out of his or her classes.
On-time, ready to go – Dancers should arrive shortly before class to get their shoes on and personal items stored away and safe. Get there a little early, and you will have time to get some extra stretching in before class. But beware, for younger dancers, arriving too early can try their patience waiting for class to begin.
Dress for success – Come dressed for the class in the right style of the class. Not sure what to wear? Check the studio dress code usually posted in-studio or on their website. Still not sure, ask the teacher, owner, or front desk person, they will be glad to help.
Eyes and ears open, mouth closed – Dancers should keep their focus and pay attention. Let the teacher know you are listening by maintaining good eye contact. Unless you are being asked a question, the only voice that should be heard in a dance class is that of the teacher’s.
Posture speaks a thousand words – Dance can be a powerful way to tell a story through movement. Your body language in class will tell others around you what you are thinking or what kind of mood you are in. Be a leader in class by always exuding a positive vibe in how you are conducting yourself.
Move around the dance floor – Dancers can be creatures of habits just like most people. Every dancer has favorite spots on the floor when taking class. Change it up once in a while by dancing in different spots next to different people, and you might find this little technique might take you out of your “comfort zone” to make you a stronger dancer.
To ask or not to ask – The main voice in the dance room is the teacher’s but there are times when you might ask a question. If you do so, pick the right time to ask, make sure question is relevant and can help yourself and your classmates. Also, don’t stop listening. Keep your ears open.
When to lead, when to follow – Know when you can take the lead, maybe because you are one of the older dancers and the younger dancers look up to you. This can greatly assist your teacher in getting some point across. BUT, there are times when it might be best to be a follower because another dancer in class might be older, know a particular technique better, and it is their time to lead inside the classroom. Picking the right spots to lead or to follow will not only make you a better dancer, but also a better person.
Dance with your heart – Great technique and great flexibility are a good start, but make sure every time you take the dance floor, that you put your heart and personality into your movements and the dance routine. There is something special when a performer brings genuine emotion and integrity to the arts.
Try following some of the above suggestions the next time you hit the dance floor. See if makes a difference in what you give to the class and, more importantly, what you are able to take away from the dance class.
(this post was republished from 01-11-2019)
