What is competition dance all about? Is being on a competitive dance team worth the time and effort? These are valid questions dancers should ask as they choose their path. Ever since the dance world exploded onto reality TV and the YouTube scene, competition dance has taken center stage. While being a “competition dancer” isn’t for everyone, there are a lot of positives to being on a dance team. Here are some of them:
• It’s like family Being on a competitive dance team promotes teamwork. Dancers are encouraged to do their individual best and put trust in one another so they can perform better as a whole. Since dancers spend a few nights a week together with the same group of people, a lot of bonding takes place. There’s laughter, tears, older dancers mentoring younger ones, just like a second family!
• Competition dance promotes hard work Long before competition season begins, dancers are perfecting their technique and routines at the dance studio. Those cool moves you see onstage look effortless because of the time and energy they devote offstage. This desire to commit and never quit stays with a dancer long after they hang up their shoes – a plus!
• Learning the value of constructive criticism Competition dancers and their teachers receive personalized critiques, thoughts, and opinions from some of the most renowned professionals in the dance world. Constructive criticism helps dancers and teachers improve, as well as find ways to make their performances more appealing to the audience. That’s far more meaningful than winning a trophy!
• Endless experiences Whether it’s performing at a stadium, auditorium, or at nationals, competition dance offers once in a lifetime experiences. It also builds confidence, poise, and grace. Competition dancers know how to “work the stage,” which can give them an edge when auditioning for future roles.
• Opportunities galore Most dance competitions offer intensives and scholarship opportunities for dancers, enabling them to show off their talent, make connections, and work with some of the best teachers in the industry.
• Rock star parents There’s no question that competition dancers can’t function without the love and support of their mom or dad. Whether it’s driving them to and from the studio every day, gluing on sequins, fixing their hair and makeup, or cheering them on at competitions, the show wouldn’t go on without the unconditional support of parents.
Want to get a first-hand glimpse of a dance competition? Wish granted! During March 2-4, Impact Dance Studio kicks off our season at the Hollywood Vibe competition located at The Westin Chicago North Shore in Wheeling, IL. For more information about this and future competitions, follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Go team!
