Dance Magic 2010

One week ago was my studio's huge theater production. It was my troupe's first year in the show and my second year. I was only in one number so much of my time back stage was helping others through their quick costume changes. Some of the girls are in multiple troupes that have multiple numbers.
Today I am going to talk about backstage etiquette. Most new dancers don't know what to do and what not to do during a show. This can lead to being in the wrong place at the wrong time. It can also lead to hurt feelings and losing friendships. Most is basic common sense, but when you are filled with pre-stage jitters common sense can go out the window.

Rule #1: Use as little of a space as possible. If you can leave it at home, do. If you can change at home, do. The less things everyone brings the less crowed the backstage will be. If you are in only one number or only have one costume, don't expect that there will always be space for you to change.

Rule #2: Ask the people who will be around you if they need your help during rehearsals. If they say no, just stay out of their way. During the show you can break their concentration by asking. This also lets them know that you support their dancing as well as your own. Also, don't be surprised if they say no during rehearsal and then ask your help during the show. Half the troupe seated next to us was in another troupe and it seemed all their zippers got stuck!

Rule #3: Keep track of the line up yourself. Depending on others to do so can backfire in many ways. While most productions have stage managers, they might be putting out a fire while you need to be getting to your spot. Other dancers in your number might be in the restroom or a different dressing room.

Rule #4: Be ultra polite. Nerves will be on edge and that makes everything more grating. Saying please and thank you will help.

Rule #5: Be quiet. Most backstage areas are not soundproofed so the performers can keep track of the show. This also means that the audience can hear loud noises from the dressing rooms.

Depending on the show there will be other rules. Some of the more common are; where to use sprays, where to smoke, watching the show during performances, etc. Most dance companies and/or stage managers will write these up and hand them out. If you are not given anything following the above rules should get you through just fine.

The picture is of my troupe at our show. We did an afro-industrial number inspired by Shakra. That was only my pod, I'm the one in front. There were three pods.