Dress rehearsal is a critical part of the recital. It gives us a chance to run through all the components of the performance (those the audience sees and many that are unseen), as they will be on recital day. Because we use local schools to accommodate the large number of dancers and audience members, dress rehearsal is our opportunity to live-test all systems and familiarize the dancers with the stage and recital day procedures. Sound systems, lighting, communications between back stage and the control booth above, green room setup, sign placement, traffic flow, stage blocking, volunteer green room assignments —- all these and more are things that can only be checked at the performance venue.

Just as importantly, it gives the dancers, who have been learning and practicing in the studio, a chance to experience the ‘big stage’, a different and sometimes intimidating scenario for the little ones. Having a run-through of the entire performance allows them to become comfortable and have a better recital experience.

In addition to the individual comfort level gained at dress rehearsal, each child is part of a class. Choreography designed for 8 is different than that designed for 7. When one dancer doesn’t show for rehearsal, it often leaves a hole in the choreography or a partner without someone to perform a step with. If they come only for the recital, they are out of sync with the other dancers and they’ve deprived the others of a full practice with all dancers in place.

So —- this is why dress rehearsals are mandatory. It benefits everyone, including your dancer. Yes, it’s an additional commitment, but the kids have been practicing and learning since September. Isn’t one additional day worth the effort so that they can have the best recital experience possible?