Many parents wonder whether or not to allow their child to dance in a competitive program. There are many benefits to competition, 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 they can decide if it is the right program for their child.
Competition dancers can start as young as 5 years old. I don’t recommend starting before this; I suggest that at this age children should be accepted on teacher recommendation. First-year competitors can put a lot of pressure on themselves until they know what to expect, as the atmosphere of competition 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 being the center of attention, performing for the audience, and giving 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 does 3-4 rehearsals a week. I suggest that all new competitive dancers start slowly and then work up to a level of rehearsal and dedication that fits their lifestyle and schedule. However, it is definite that the more one dances/practices, the better and faster one will improve. If a dancer is taking a competition class that rehearses once a week, I recommend adding a ballet technique class on top of that. Most studios can schedule these classes back-to-back, so the dancer would only need to attend one day a week. This is a great way to see if he or she likes not only competitive dancing but also commitment.
Competitive dancers typically attend several local competitions a year and an optional national event located out of state. Some studios may decide to only attend nationals every two years. It really just depends on the clientele, the show itself, and even the economy. Contests also vary in entry fee prices. Each competing company sets and charges its own rates; the dance studio has no control over this. Entrance fee prices range from $30.00 for each dancer in a group to $80.00 per 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 I personally stay away from them as entry fees have already been paid by parents.
Dancers in a competitive program gain much more than just 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 bit more, as the pressure is a bit higher than in a non-competitive class. In competition, there are usually three judges who rate technique, timing, costumes, stage presence, and overall performance. Competing dancers learn to perform all the aspects necessary to earn a good score and hopefully an overall award. Competitive dance programs help the dancer feel less intimidated and have more confidence in her abilities and in himself. Dancers quickly learn to receive and apply corrective feedback, which helps them tremendously later in life.
Having said all of the above, I am a huge fan of the competition as I feel that it really helps and prepares dancers for the afterlife. All of these aspects are learning tools to help them when they go to college or the world of work. I have found that people who have competed in dance are able to handle the stress and demands placed on them in everyday life. However, I strongly suggest you check out the study and the program on offer 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.