It’s here! As we prepare for our spring performances at Turning Pointe Dance, you might be asking yourself: “Why do we have a recital?” Even though it adds tasks to your plate and takes up some time, the answer is as simple as 1, 2, 3…
1. We are dancing on stage because we are learning a performing art! Performing is a big part of dance, and we’re learning and practicing that piece in addition to all of the other aspects.
2. We are dancing on stage because it’s FUN to get all dressed up and perform! Costumes are part of what creates the whole picture of a performance, and part of learning to dance is learning to put it all together, from hair to shoes!
3. We are dancing on stage to show our family and friends what we’ve learned, and inviting them to celebrate with us.
And while all of these reasons might be true, at Turning Pointe Dance, we dance for a greater purpose.
“My soul magnifies the Lord.” — Luke 1:46.
At Turning Pointe recitals, our hope is that all of our dancers will be big lights that shine for Jesus. We want to glorify God through our bodies, praise His name with dancing, and present the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ on stage. Of course all of our dancers will look lovely in their costumes, they will perform beautifully, and their families will celebrate with them. But more than that, our mission at Turning Pointe will be fulfilled and the heart of God will be blessed and pleased.
So let’s make sure this week is filled with JOY! It’s a celebration of praise, afterall. Read on for a few tips to help you prepare for your performances, as we ALL prepare to shine His light throughout the auditorium!
1. Plan Ahead
Make sure you know when you’re supposed to arrive, and plan ahead for any naps, snacks, traffic possibilities, hair/makeup prep, and warmup/stretching time needed. You know your body or your dancer better than anyone… make sure you’re setting yourself up for success on stage instead of scrambling! And this doesn’t just go for recital day… are you performing on Sunday? Maybe skip the fourteener Saturday morning, and opt for a restful day instead. Take care of yourself, make good choices, and get a good night’s sleep.
2. Prepare at Home
Once you arrive at the auditorium, things will be all-systems-go, with plenty of distractions. Before you head out the door, be sure to block out some time to pray, worship, and go over your dance (or dances!). Trust us… the first time you hear the music or think of your steps shouldn’t be in front of an audience! Find a happy, quiet and comfortable place at home, give Him all the glory, and practice everything a few times before the craziness of the moment.
3. Review the Info
There’s a lot to keep track of this week, but we’ve got it all on one convenient page. Head over to the All About Recital page on our website for a quick reference guide, complete with the hair, tights and shoes needed for each class, the Recital Handbook, and information on tickets and keepsakes, like pictures, flowers, recital bunnies and performance videos (DVD, Blu-ray and digital).
A big part of the dance training process includes learning through performance. The experience helps build self-esteem and confidence! On-stage experience (no matter how big or small) can also result in better school presentations, improved social skills, and strong interview skills for future college or job opportunities.
Participating in rehearsals helps children develop retention skills, teamwork, and adaptability. They’ve put in the work all year long, and we’ve worked to clarify what is required in terms of commitments and responsibility, all in order to make this spring recital week a great experience for students, teachers, parents, tech crew, and audience members alike. We’re going to have a GREAT weekend and we look forward to sharing it with you!