Setting Your Dancer Up for Success at Staging & Recital
Recital week is here, and we are so excited to celebrate everything our dancers have worked toward this season.
We have a tested process for preparing dancers for a safe, positive, and enjoyable performance experience. A little preparation goes a long way in helping them feel confident, calm, and ready to shine.
The biggest thing you can do to help? Be prepared.
Review Your Scheduled Times
Please double-check your dancer’s assigned staging and rehearsal times before arriving at the theatre.
We recommend arriving about 10 minutes early and planning for a few extra minutes on either side of your scheduled rehearsal time so that everyone can arrive settled, organized, and ready to go.
Washroom Before Rehearsal
There is a washroom located across from the box office at Holy Heart Theatre.
Please encourage dancers to use the washroom when they arrive so that they are comfortable and ready to focus once rehearsal begins.
Double-Check Shoes & Dancewear
Please make sure dancers arrive with all required shoes, tights, costumes, and undergarments.
Dancers in Level 1 and up are required to have a nude bodysuit. This allows dancers to change comfortably backstage throughout the performance process.
Having everything organized ahead of time helps rehearsal run smoothly and reduces stress for dancers backstage.
Bring a Laundry Basket
All dancers should bring a laundry basket that will act as their personal container backstage.
All personal items should remain in the laundry basket when not in use. This helps keep costumes, shoes, water bottles, and accessories organized throughout the day and makes backstage movement much smoother for dancers and volunteers.
Costumes for Wee Dance & Combo
Dancers in Wee Dance and Combo classes will take their costumes home following staging rehearsal.
They will need to arrive wearing their costumes for both the dress rehearsal and performance.
Backstage Procedures
Parents are welcome to sit in the audience during staging rehearsals, but no parents are permitted backstage.
Part of recital preparation is helping dancers build independence and confidence backstage with their teachers, assistants, and volunteers.
We kindly ask that families avoid calling dancers offstage or waving them over during rehearsal. We recommend sitting toward the back of the theatre so dancers can stay focused and avoid the temptation to run toward family members.
They have done the work. They are prepared. Now it’s time to celebrate.
Snacks & Quiet Activities
Non-messy snacks are permitted backstage.
We also recommend sending dancers with:
A labelled water bottle
A small book
Coloring supplies or another quiet activity
These small comforts can help dancers stay relaxed and occupied during downtime.
Most Importantly: Hype Them Up
This is a huge accomplishment.
Whether it’s their very first recital or their fifteenth, performance takes courage. Your excitement, encouragement, and calm energy make a difference.
We cannot wait to celebrate this beautiful group of dancers with you.