Summary: October and November seem to be the beginning of the performing season for most schools. My performing arts school will present its first show of the season this Friday, November 1. In celebration of the event, I'd like to share my top 7 tips for show success. 1. Costume Check Before leaving the house, ensure that your perfomer has all the necessary costumes pieces, props, accessories, tights, and shoes. There's nothing worse than arriving at the theatre to discover there's a shoe or accessory at home. 2. Sign In & Out While not all schools and performances will require this, our school requires our younger students (7 and under) to be signed in and out by a parent. Our older students may sign in/out on their own. This process aids staff and volunteers in keeping track of kids and ensuring performers are in the right place at the right time. 3. Leave the photos and videos to the professionals Performance time for your kids means you should just sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! As a parent, I know it's stressful to attempt filming/photographing my kids when they are performing. When I do this, I feel like I don't see and enjoy what my kids are presenting which takes all the fun out of going to a show. I want to honestly express my appreciation and honor my kids for having the courage to take to the stage. 4. Send water with your performer Your performer will need to keep hydrated during the show. Please send at least a couple of water bottles with your performer to each show. Colored, sugary drinks often lead to spills and stained costumes. Keep these at home for post-show enjoyment. 5. Keep valuables at home Please do not send your performer to the theatre with valuable items including iPods, iPhones, or Kindles, etc. as they may not make it back home safely. 6. Pack crafts, coloring books, or something to read Please send your child with something constructive to do during the time(s) s/he is not on stage. Coloring books, crayons, colored pencils, and books to read are excellent items to keep kids occupied when waiting for their turn on stage. 7. Enjoy the process! While show time is often hectic, it is your child's time to shine! Your performer has learned so much in such a short time - new dance, tumbling, or karate terminology and skills, awareness of self and others, appreciation for the performing arts, and most importantly, confidence in their ability as a performer! Your enthusiasm, encouragement, and positive feedback are so important to you and your performer enjoying their time on stage! Enjoy the many performances your child will present this season!
