Having Fun Yet? - by - Ava Riegle
Follow Ava Riegle on Instagram @avamackay1
Photo - Brittany Lynn Photography
I love going to dance conventions! I love being able to learn from master teachers, meet new dance friends, and challenge myself to take risks and be outgoing. I think conventions can also be stressful because everyone is worried about getting called out and earning scholarships. This can sometimes be overwhelming. These are some things I have learned from older dancers, my teachers, and my own experiences that can help you be successful at a dance convention.
Tip #1\. Have fun! Yes I know it sounds cheesy, but seriously if you aren’t having fun and enjoying yourself, it will show. You love dance and you should allow yourself to enjoy the classes and everything else involved in a convention! Teachers and other dancers notice if a dancer is living life and loving every minute of class. This is what gets you noticed first!
Tip #2\. Look like a dancer. Wear something that will stand out and get you noticed, but make sure it allows you to freely dance and show off your technique too. Don’t cover too much of your body and make sure your outfit fits and doesn’t ride up or need to be messed with often. Bright colors or patterns that make you memorable are always a plus! Hair should be pulled back and tight with no fly aways. The last thing you want to have to do is fix your bun or pony tail in the middle of class.
Tip #3\. Location Location Location. Try to get up front or in a spot in the room that allows you to be noticed by the teacher. Make sure you have plenty of room to go full out. You don’t want your moves to suffer because of space. You don’t have to stand by your friends and teammates. This is a great time to mix it up and meet new friends and be inspired by other dancers.
Tip #4 Be confident and live in the moment! Sometimes it can be easy to get hung up on making sure the combo is perfect, but when that happens your facials suffer. Teachers are looking for students who are living their combo and letting their emotions out. Get rid of the thinking face! If you don’t fully have the combo, distract them with your facials and energy. These things go along way!
Tip #5\. Take Risks! Volunteer to demonstrate in class. Try new things. This is your chance to try and fail and learn! Teachers are looking for students that take risks and keep trying. Don’t be afraid to ask questions while you can. Don’t hesitate to talk to the teachers.
Remember a scholarship isn’t everything. Conventions are about so much more. There are so many amazing experiences and learning opportunities at dance conventions. Following these tips may help you get noticed and maybe take home a scholarship, but they will also help you grow and enjoy your experience which is the most important thing. Remember to have fun and always look for other #sugarsisters and remember to share your Sugarhaul love with others!
Tip #1\. Have fun! Yes I know it sounds cheesy, but seriously if you aren’t having fun and enjoying yourself, it will show. You love dance and you should allow yourself to enjoy the classes and everything else involved in a convention! Teachers and other dancers notice if a dancer is living life and loving every minute of class. This is what gets you noticed first!
Tip #2\. Look like a dancer. Wear something that will stand out and get you noticed, but make sure it allows you to freely dance and show off your technique too. Don’t cover too much of your body and make sure your outfit fits and doesn’t ride up or need to be messed with often. Bright colors or patterns that make you memorable are always a plus! Hair should be pulled back and tight with no fly aways. The last thing you want to have to do is fix your bun or pony tail in the middle of class.
Tip #3\. Location Location Location. Try to get up front or in a spot in the room that allows you to be noticed by the teacher. Make sure you have plenty of room to go full out. You don’t want your moves to suffer because of space. You don’t have to stand by your friends and teammates. This is a great time to mix it up and meet new friends and be inspired by other dancers.
Tip #4 Be confident and live in the moment! Sometimes it can be easy to get hung up on making sure the combo is perfect, but when that happens your facials suffer. Teachers are looking for students who are living their combo and letting their emotions out. Get rid of the thinking face! If you don’t fully have the combo, distract them with your facials and energy. These things go along way!
Tip #5\. Take Risks! Volunteer to demonstrate in class. Try new things. This is your chance to try and fail and learn! Teachers are looking for students that take risks and keep trying. Don’t be afraid to ask questions while you can. Don’t hesitate to talk to the teachers.
Remember a scholarship isn’t everything. Conventions are about so much more. There are so many amazing experiences and learning opportunities at dance conventions. Following these tips may help you get noticed and maybe take home a scholarship, but they will also help you grow and enjoy your experience which is the most important thing. Remember to have fun and always look for other #sugarsisters and remember to share your Sugarhaul love with others!
XOXO,
Ava