Many parents wonder whether or not to allow their child to dance in a competitive program. Competition has many benefits, as well as some negatives. I’d like to take some time and clarify some of the pros and cons. My goal is to help all parents understand the details of the competitive dance program so that they can decide if it is the right program for their children.
Competition dancers can start from the age of 5. I do not recommend starting earlier; I suggest that children at this age be accepted on the teacher’s recommendation. First-year competitors can put a lot of pressure on themselves until they know what to expect, as the competition environment is quite different from a recital. Usually after the first competition, a dancer will know if the competition is right for them. If they love to be the center of attention, perform in front of the public and give it their all, the competition is most likely a good fit for the dancer.
A competitive program can be as simple as attending a class once a week, or as demanding as joining a dance company that performs 3-4 rehearsals per week. I suggest that all new competitive dancers start slowly and then work their way up to a level of rehearsal and dedication that suits their lifestyle and schedule. However, it is definite that the more you dance / practice, the better and faster you will improve. If a dancer is taking a competition class that he rehearses once a week, I recommend adding a ballet technique class on top of that. Most studios can schedule these classes one after the other, so the dancer would only have to attend one day a week. This is a great way to see if he or she likes not only competitive dancing, but commitment as well.
Competition dancers generally attend several local competitions a year and an optional national event located out of state. Some studios may decide to attend only nationals every two years. It really depends on the clientele, the program itself, and even the economy. Contests also vary in the prices of entry fees. Each competing company establishes and charges its own rates; the dance studio has no control over this. Entry fee prices range from $ 30.00 for each dancer in a group to $ 80.00 for one dancer to perform a solo routine. The competition venue is usually held at a local high school or performance venue. Most competitions do not charge a fee for parents to view, however I have heard of several that do and personally stay away from them as the registration fees have already been paid by parents.
Dancers in a competitive program gain much more than technique. They learn to work collectively as a group, as well as the importance of timing and timing. When teaching a competitive class, teachers will emphasize this a little more emphatically, as the pressure is slightly higher than in a non-competitive class. In competition there are usually three judges who score on technique, timing, costume, stage presence, and overall performance. Competing dancers learn to do all the things necessary to get a good score and hopefully a general prize. Competitive dance programs help the dancer feel less intimidated, more confident in himself and his abilities. Dancers quickly learn to accept and apply corrective criticism, which helps them tremendously later in life.
Having said all of the above, I am a huge fan of competition as I feel like it really helps and prepares dancers for life later on. All these aspects are learning tools that will help them when they go to university or the world of work. I have found that people who have competed in dance are able to handle the stresses and demands placed on them more easily in everyday life. However, I suggest that you review the study and the program offered and make sure it works for you and your family. Although competition can be very expensive and time consuming, it can also be very rewarding.