May Devotion: Reward
After a two-year hiatus, recitals as we once knew them are BACK! Soon we’ll be blessed with the incredible experience of performing in His name, filling the auditorium with praise and worship as we celebrate the gifts and talents God has given each student. We’ll see friends and family together in the audience once again as we hear the music we’ve practiced all season echo through the walls of the auditorium. We’ll smell the flowers in the lobby and the hairspray backstage as we prepare to feel the warmth of the bright lights center stage. And since the theater world over has endured a difficult season since COVID-19 altered the face of performing arts, this year’s return to normalcy will taste even sweeter.
It’s no secret that the road back to recitals has been challenging, which makes this milestone all the more rewarding. The same can probably be said for the road you’ve traveled this season, whether that’s been since the start of classes, since the start of the pandemic, the last 10 years or the last 10 days. Maybe you’re still navigating your way through a season of struggles. No matter where you are when you take the stage in a few weeks, be assured with this month’s memory verse, Galatians 6:9…
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
The fact is, we worship a rewarding God. It’s written all throughout His word. 1 Corinthians 3:13-15 says the quality of our work will be tested with fire, and if it does not burn, we will be rewarded. Mark 10:29-30 tells us that those who leave to live in His name will receive a reward 100 times their present state. Luke 14:13-14 tells us that those who do good works and bless those who cannot repay will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous. Are you sensing a theme? Rewards are promised, but not without being earned. There will be fire, broken relationships and sacrifice, but, if we do not grow weary of doing good, it will always pay off in the end.
If only it were that simple, right? But doing good is hard work, especially if you lose sight of why doing good matters. We are called to live in a way that’s consistent with our beliefs—in a manner that brings honor and glory to our God. In this month’s verse, Paul reminds the Galatian Christians that trusting their lives to the world, relying on their own power and following their own selfish and sinful desires will only lead to corruption and decay. But “do not grow weary of doing good,” because we love a Father who keeps His promises, and He has promised to reward our servant hearts.
How many times have you felt weary this season? We can feel a lot of exhaustion from the disappointment of canceled plans, setbacks, or even simply trying over and over to nail your skills or choreography that didn’t come easily. Maybe you didn’t get the part you auditioned for and really wanted. Maybe a new dance genre isn’t what you had hoped. God saw it all. He saw your struggles, and he sees your steadfast faith. He sees when we feel defeated. He sees when we’re good stewards of the talents and resources He’s given. He sees when we fall wayward toward our sinful nature. He sees when we seek first the Kingdom. He sees us—always. Just as our sins can’t hide in the shadows, so, too, does God see our faithfulness—a virtue which He has promised a reward.
Now I know what you might be thinking… I was good through all of the hardships. I did not grow weary. I held true to His promises. Why then am I still struggling? Why wasn’t my progress report a rave? Why didn’t I advance to the next level? Why wasn’t I chosen for a lead role this time? Consider Hebrews 6:10:
“For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints.”
God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. He not only sees you through the darkest times, He delights in your commitment and continued investment in Him. So let us not grow weary of doing good for His sake. There is no shortage of rewards on earth and in Heaven. If we can’t see it, we can rest assured in knowing that we trust in His promises, and this is one of them. He has promised that in time, the seeds we have planted in Him will reap a bountiful harvest. Maybe not where, when and what we expect, and maybe not even on this earth, but the scriptures assure us that God will reward us for our service and obedience in love.
This month, as we prepare for performances, let’s pray that we know His goodness and shine it to all those around us. Let’s faithfully submit ourselves to His plan, and pray that acceptance of His timing and rewards be established in our hearts. Let’s celebrate this season of dance, and know that He will see each performance and be glorified. Let’s enjoy the reward of recital after all of our diligent classwork. We’re so proud of the work you’ve all put in this season, and we can’t wait to see you shine!
May Newsletter
The Dos and Don’ts of Stage Makeup
Can you believe it’s almost recital month? In just one week, we’ll get a first look at our students in their costumes with hair and makeup for picture week, with performances on stage soon after. And while getting all dressed up can be one of the highlights of the dance year, it can also be one of the most stressful! The good news is, we’re here to help. A few weeks ago, we shared our top five tips for a successful recital season, including where to find all things hair, tights and shoes for each class. This week we’re sharing all things makeup to help us look our best as we shine His light!
Tips for Twirl
Our littlest students are pretty perfect just the way they are, and they don’t perform under the bright lights on the big stage quite yet. But if you want to have some fun being fancy for their big day on the Recital Red Carpet, we say, “keep it simple.” Stick to a light touch of neutral or pink blush, and maybe some clear lip gloss. That’s really all they need!
Do: Have fun! At this age, our goal is to worship God and have fun as we learn the basics of performing and dance. Anything special you add for the final performance should only add to the joy of the experience!
Don’t: Do anything you’re not comfortable with. Nothing is required or expected at this age, so don’t force it – especially if you or your student objects!
Tips for Primary–Level 2
For this age group, things should still be pretty minimal. While we don’t suggest foundation just yet, these students will be performing under bright stage lights, so their faces will start to wash out. When applying makeup at this level, the goal should be to brighten students' faces and make sure their features show up on stage! We suggest a bit of blush, some mascara (just on the tips of the lashes) and some simple pink lip gloss.
Do: Stick to neutral colors. Especially for picture week, you want makeup to elevate each dancer’s God-given features, not distract or take away from them!
Don’t: Put any sparkles or shimmer around your eyes. We know it can be fun to sparkle like your costume, but don’t forget the stage lights will find and bounce off every shimmery flake! When you’re dancing on stage, you want your features to pop–not the makeup itself!
Tips for Level 3 and Up:
For our more advanced students, makeup should be like a part of their costume, creating a whole, complete picture from head to toe. These dancers should plan to wear foundation and contour, blush, full eye makeup including shadow and liner, and lip color, with the goal of enhancing costumes, fighting the brightness of stage lights, and making facial features and expressions visible clear up in the balcony.
Do: Ask your teacher if they have any specific instructions, like a specific lip color or winged eyeliner.
Don’t: Choose loud or harsh colors like black or bright blue. While products should be heavily pigmented, colors shouldn’t clash with costumes or lights–especially if students are performing with more than one class!
For more tips, tricks, and application tutorials, follow us on Instagram and check out our archived stories!
Show Your Spirit!
It’s Spirit Week at Turning Pointe Dance! Join us April 18-23 to celebrate Spring and encourage unity and camaraderie among students as we finish the year strong. Want to join in on all the fun? Check out each day’s theme below!
Monday = Dance Costume Day
Are those old recital costumes still hanging in your closet? Pull them out and wear them to class! Does your big sibling’s recital costume from a few years ago fit you now? Throw it on and bring it back to life! Light up your Monday classes with a little sparkle, and have fun making every moment a performance.
Tuesday = Movie Character Day
What’s your favorite movie? And your favorite character in that movie? Now’s your chance to bring the screen to the stage (well, the dance floor, anyway). Have some fun choosing your ensemble, then dance the day away as someone new! Just remember to pick something modest that you can move in… it’s still dance class, afterall!
Wednesday = Crazy Hair Day
Put those leotards and tights back on Wednesday, but let those buns OUT! Be creative, and have fun with your ‘do, and enjoy the chance to express yourself in a brand new way. Don’t forget to spray it down… we’ve got pirouettes to do!
Thursday = Disney Day
Celebrate all things Disney during Thursday classes! Be our guest and let it go as you experience a whole new world of dance. Whether you’re under the sea or staring at the edge of the water, we bet you can find 101 reasons to join in all the Disney fun.
Friday = Crazy Sock Day
We hereby grant you permission to ditch your dance shoes, just this once! Rock your craziest socks to class on Friday and celebrate the amazing feet God gave you. They carry you across the floor, afterall!
Saturday = TP Spirit Day
Help us celebrate the studio during Saturday classes with your favorite pieces of Turning Pointe logowear! Don’t have any? Snag some here, or wear studio colors (black, white and pink) instead!
Turning Pointe Top 5: Tips for a Successful Recital Season
Believe it or not, recital season is upon us! By now your student has received their costume(s), finished their dance(s) and are busy gearing up for picture week and performances. As a large studio, we have several shows each year in order to highlight each student and class with a personal and special experience—but with all the information and details floating around, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Good news… we’re here to help! Read on for our latest TP Top 5: Tips for a Successful Recital Season.
1. Use your resources
Whether this is your first, fifth or fifteenth recital, chances are, you have questions. And while some questions are more specific than others, chances are, your question is answered somewhere on our website. Before you get stressed, head to our All About Recital page. Our Quick Reference Guide includes performance and rehearsal dates broken down by class, and there’s even a Recital Handbook with everything you’ll need to know from parking details to ticket information. Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Ask a member of our front desk team the next time you drop by the studio, leave us a message or send us an email. Someone will get back to you ASAP!
Is your student in the Twirl Program? There’s a special page just for you! Check out all things Red Carpet Recital Experience here, including who can come, when to be there and what to expect.
2. Be prepared
Practice makes perfect, right? In addition to practicing the choreography before the big day, we recommend being prepared for the other steps you’ll need to take, too. Do you have the correct tights/shoes for your performances? The Quick Reference Guide will let you know what’s required for each class so you can be prepared. Do you have what you need? Ensure everything fits properly, everything is clean and free of holes or runs. Need any pieces? Add that to your to-do list now so you’re not stressed and scrambling come picture week!
Do you know the hairstyle for your class? The Quick Reference Guide will help you here, too. Make sure you practice the style a few times before the big day! In addition to picture week, have your dancer wear their performance hairstyle to class! That way their teacher can take a look, they’ll get practice dancing with the style, and you’ll know whether or not it will outlast all the leaps and turns. Have any quick hair changes? Be sure to practice those, too!
3. Plan ahead
Write down the days and times you or your student will need to be at the auditorium, and make your plans accordingly! Arrange for transportation and review the drop-off and pick-up directions in the Recital Handbook so you’re ready to go and know what to expect. Will you or your student have long breaks between classes? Make sure you pack modest cover-ups, non-messy snacks and water. Our dancing bodies are our worship tools, so make sure you take good care!
4. Keep it all in perspective
So I have to be where, when? I need to buy what color tights, and your shoes are too small? Remind me why we’re doing all of this again! Our students are learning a performing art; therefore, they get to celebrate and PERFORM their art! They get to wear fun costumes, show their family and friends what they’ve learned and give everyone the opportunity to celebrate with them. But more than any of that, we dance at recitals for a greater purpose. “My soul magnifies the Lord.” (Luke 1:46) We hope that all of our dancers will be big lights that shine for Jesus. We want to glorify God through our bodies with dancing and present the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Yes, all of our dancers will look amazing 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 when you get swept away in the details, just remember…
5. Enjoy every moment!
The 2022 Spring Recital will only happen once! Find the joy in every task, and remember to thank Him for this (sometimes crazy) season. It’s such a blessing to be able to praise His name with dancing, and to share and shine His light with each class performance. Celebrate His blessings, and help us celebrate these students. They’ve been working so hard all year! Our All About Recital page has all the info on recital keepsakes like recital portraits and action photos, performance BluRays or DVDs, and flowers for your students.
Are you ready? Let’s savor this season together!
April Devotion: Redeem
What does it mean to be redeemed? Maybe you think of a time when you redeemed yourself on stage or in class, perfectly executing the step that escaped you in the last attempt. Maybe you think of redeeming a coupon or a promo code when you checkout and complete a purchase, the rescue of something pawned, or the payment of a ransom. No matter how you define this month’s devotion word, there is a common thread: A willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. Whether it’s sacrificing your time or your pride as you work to correct a past wrong, sacrificing the cost of goods to honor a promotion, or sacrificing what you have to rescue or restore, in order to be made new, something’s got to give. For us as Christians, the ultimate example of redemption is the redeeming of humanity, and our reconciliation with God, through the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus. (1 Peter 1:18-19)
In the book of Ruth, Boaz was known as a kinsman-redeemer. Even though another family member was next in line, Boaz stepped in to assume the role, willingly sacrificing his finances and reputation to protect Ruth and Naomi from poverty and restore their status in the community. And just as Boaz stepped up to redeem his kin, we, too, have been redeemed, saved by grace, through the intervention and willing sacrifice of another. Everyone was born into sin, separated from God after the fall of man in Eden. (Romans 3:23) And just like Ruth and Naomi, we are powerless to change it on our own. But we’ve been redeemed. Jesus sacrificed his life so that ours could be eternal.
Let’s break it down in this month’s memory verse, Ephesians 1:7:
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.”
Paul is referring to the crucifixion here, as sufficient payment to cover the sins of all who believe. There’s no fine print on the payment receipt. There’s no expiration date on the coupon. We were born into a wrong that He’s already made right. Through His willing sacrifice, we are released from the eternal penalty and the earthly power of our sins. By the grace of God, which gives salvation, the ultimate price for us has already been paid.
This is grace. It is only through Jesus that we have a way (John 14:6) to salvation (Acts 4:12). And while our freedom was not “free,” because Jesus gave everything, God provided a free way to know Him by faith. Paul goes on to say in Ephesians 2:8, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
As we continue to reflect on the dance year behind us and look forward to a new season looming, think about who you were before Jesus redeemed you. What has His sacrifice saved you from? How has Jesus restored your status with God? Are there things you’re still trying to overcome? Where do you need His protection today? Trust in Him, our redeemer, who willingly sacrificed his son for our freedom.
April Newsletter
Turning Pointe’s Top 5 Things To Do Over Spring Break
Spring has sprung, and Spring Break is here! Our doors are closed this week, but we’re excited to be back to classes on Monday, March 28. And while we’re all enjoying some much-needed time away from the barre, there are some things we encourage you to do this week to keep brains and bodies engaged and feeling their healthiest. Afterall, the first day back in the studio is the first day of Spring Peek Week! So if you find yourself missing class, or if you have some commute time to fill, here’s the latest Turning Pointe Top 5: Things To Do Over Spring Break!
1. Plan your Summer Dance Schedule
We know it’s only March, but summer registration opens Friday, April 1! Check out our School’s Out Workshop Series, six-week summer class schedule and summer camps here, then map out your registration plan! Spots fill up quickly—be ready to lock in your ideal class schedule! First summer at Turning Pointe? You’ll find dates and information on policies, tuition, dress code and more through the same link.
2. Practice Active Recovery
Don’t get us wrong, taking time completely off is so important! But it’s also a good idea to keep your muscles moving, at least a few days a week—especially if you’re preparing for a spring audition or upcoming performance! Engaging in some active recovery exercises (or activities less intense than your normal schedule) can keep your circulation, balance, strength, and nutrients like amino acids and oxygen in check, and help flush out any stiffness, soreness and waste that have built up since your last class. Choose three or four days over Spring Break to go for a walk, hold a little plank, or turn on your favorite worship song and dance.
3. Don’t Forget to Stretch
As we said last week, flexibility is hard won and quickly lost if you’re not consistent. Don’t ignore your goals completely, and set yourself up for a successful return to class by continuing to stretch your muscles every day—even if it’s just 5 minutes. Trust us, when you get back in the studio, you’ll be glad you did! Need some tips and tricks to make the most of your stretching time? Check out last week’s post, our Top 5 Ways to Improve Flexibility, here.
4. Get Some Rest
Yep! Here’s the part you’ve all been waiting for… the part where we tell you to take it easy! Rest is vital for better mental health, increased concentration and memory, a healthier immune system, reduced stress, improved mood, better metabolism, etc. etc. The list goes on and on! Even God rested on the seventh day, so take some time to relax, unplug, and restore your body and mind. Take a nap! Take a bath! Watch some movies, re-read your favorite books or snuggle with your pets. You’ve earned it!
5. Spend Some Time with the Lord
As with everything in life, the best way to go about all of the above-mentioned tasks is to do them hand-in-hand with our Heavenly Father. As you chart out your summer plans, pray over what He has in store for those next steps. Going for a recovery hike? Thank Him for the beautiful views and trails in our city—afterall, practicing gratitude is a great way to unplug and find rest! Play some worship songs or review your memory verses while you’re stretching. Wrap up in a blanket on the couch with your Bible, or even review some Turning Pointe devotions from months past. (They’re all here, just scroll back to the start of each month!)
No matter how you’re spending this week, we pray you find rest, recovery and closeness with God. We can’t wait to see everyone back next week!
Turning Pointe’s Top 5: Ways to Improve Flexibility
Did you know that increasing your flexibility can reduce the risk of injury? Stretching can decrease muscle fatigue, and even help prevent soreness altogether when practiced consistently. A flexible dancer has more elongated lines, higher-quality movements, and, since stiffness is actually bad for muscles and joints, a healthier body. The best part? There’s always room to improve! Whether you’re new to dance or have been stretching in the studio for years, we can all benefit from some extra at-home flexibility practice.
So here we go! Without further ado, let’s take a look at this week’s TP Top 5: Ways to Improve Flexibility.
1. Warm up your muscles
This may seem obvious, but it’s important to remember that warming up is as essential as your stretches themselves—especially when you’re stretching at home or outside of class! Think of your muscles like caramel candies (stay with me here)... when cold or even room temperature, trying to bend the caramel will cause it to break. But the warmer the candy, the softer and more pliable it becomes. So before you jump into an at-home stretching routine, be sure to warm up first, whether that’s taking your dog for a walk, doing a few barre combinations or just dancing it out to your favorite song.
2. Commit to Consistency
As with anything in life, practice makes perfect. And when it comes to stretching, practicing frequently and consistently is key. Let’s face it, our muscles aren’t naturally as flexible as dancers need them to be, otherwise we’d all be able to do a perfect middle split. Flexible positions are long fought for and quickly lost, so it’s important to stretch every day in order to maximize your improvement. Short on time? It’s better to stretch for 5 minutes every day than to stretch for an hour once a week. We suggest having a simple stretching routine, even if it’s just 5 minutes, that you practice every day.
3. Have a Balanced Routine
When creating your daily stretching routine, make sure you’re not skipping over any parts of your body. It’s easy to focus on areas that are sore, or even just on our legs as dancers. And while it’s good to spend a little extra time stretching the tight spots, it’s important to give everything your attention. Remember, increasing your flexibility makes for healthier, happier joints, and prevents injuries… that goes for your shoulders, back and feet, too! (Just make sure you warm up your whole body, too!)
4. Practice Static AND Dynamic Stretches
Attaining healthy flexibility is so much more than sitting in your splits forever. In addition to the balance and frequency mentioned above, it’s also important to practice a healthy mix of moving and stationary stretches. Remember that caramel analogy? Sometimes your muscles benefit more from a slow, gentle, rolling movement rather than simply sitting in a stretch, especially if you haven’t committed to a class or extended exercise routine beforehand. Need help? Let’s talk about a pike stretch. Instead of sitting down, reaching for your toes and struggling to stay in it, add some dynamic movement by sitting up tall, placing your hands on your thighs, then slowly rolling forward over your legs as you slide your fingertips toward your feet. Exhale, roll all the way back up, and repeat this motion 5-6 times, trying to reach a little farther each time. On your last repetition, add a static stretch by holding at your lowest point for 30 seconds.
5. Breathe!
This may sound more obvious than warming up, but when the going gets tough, we tend to hold our tension in our lungs… that is, we forget to breathe! Not only do your muscles need oxygen, but breathing into a stretch can actually help you relax, and allow a deeper stretch. Feel a tight spot? Breathe into it, let it go, and sink a little deeper. When you’re practicing a static stretch, think inhale to lengthen, exhale to stretch farther. If you still find yourself breathless, try shifting your thought process. Instead of thinking, “I’m going to hold this stretch for 30 seconds,” think, “I’m going to hold this stretch for 5 slow, deep breaths.”
There you have it! Want to kick it up a notch? Pair the tips above with our Top 5 Ways to Increase Your Strength at Home to really maximize your improvement.