Coming soon… Competitions!
Due to student and parent interest, House of Dance will form our very own competition team this Fall! Before we get into auditions and rehearsals, let’s answer some of your questions! Why compete? What’s included in my participation fee? How much of a commitment is it?
Why Compete?
Participating in dance competitions can offer numerous benefits for dancers, regardless of their skill level or age. Participating in dance competitions expose dancers to the world of dance that exists outside of our studio.
Skill Development: Competitions provide a platform for dancers to showcase their abilities and receive constructive feedback from experienced judges and dance professionals. This helps dancers identify areas for improvement and hone their skills. Experience and Exposure: Competing allows dancers to gain valuable stage experience, which can build confidence and improve performance under pressure. It also exposes dancers to different styles and techniques, broadening their artistic horizons.
Goal Setting and Motivation: Preparing for a competition gives dancers specific goals to work towards, which can increase motivation and dedication to their practice. The competitive environment encourages discipline and hard work.
Team Building and Camaraderie: For dancers competing as part of a team or group, competitions foster teamwork and camaraderie. Working together towards a common goal can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.
Scholarships and Opportunities: Many dance competitions offer scholarships, workshops, and other opportunities for further training and development. These can be valuable resources for advancing a dancer's career and education.
Performance Experience: Competitions often take place in professional settings, allowing dancers to perform on different stages and in front of diverse audiences. This experience can be invaluable for those pursuing a future in dance, performance, or leadership.
How much of a commitment should I expect?
Competition Dance requires a higher level of commitment compared to attending regular dance class. On top of attending weekly rehearsals, dancers are expected to practice and review their choreography at home on their own time. In addition to your dancers regular Academy schedule, you will be required to attend 2-3 hours of additional rehearsal per week. Some weeks may be slightly more and some may be slightly less! Rehearsal schedules will be distributed to each team. HOD will only attend competitions that operate on weekends or on Fridays that are after school hours. Competition days are long hours, a lot of dancing, and A LOT of FUN!
Will we be traveling for competitions?
While competitions take place all over the country, we are fortunate to live in an area where many touring competitions take place. In our first year, HOD will only participate in competitions that are located in the Chicagoland area and surrounding suburbs. Our goal is to keep travel cost at a minimum.
Why does my dancer have to audition? Will everyone make the team?
We want all dancers interested in competitions to understand the level of professionalism, commitment, and work ethic that competitions require. Auditioning is crucial for young dancers for several reasons:
Resilience and Adaptability: The audition process teaches young dancers how to handle corrections and critiques with grace, fostering resilience and adaptability in the competitive world.
Skill Development: Preparing for and participating in auditions helps dancers refine their technique, improve their presentation, and develop a strong work ethic.
At HOD we believe that EVERY dancer deserves the opportunity to perform and compete on stage. So, yes! Every dancer will have a place on the HOD competition team. Dancers will be auditioning for their “team placement”. Teams will be determined by age, skill level, & genre of dance their team will be doing (i.e. tap, jazz, lyrical).
What costs go into Dance Competitions?
Participating in a dance competition involves several costs that can add up quickly, making dance competitions a significant financial commitment for dancers and their families. House of Dance believes that all dancers should be able to access dance education regardless of their financial situation. Our goal is to keep competition team fees low & accessible, however we understand that competitions are a financial commitment not everyone will be able to make. House of Dance will offer fundraising opportunities & explore scholarships to help lower competition expenses. HOD Competition team fees will include: Entry Fees Costumes Choreography & Rehearsal time
We are so excited for this new adventure that will take our dancers to new heights and will create long lasting memories that they will forever cherish. More information about auditions & competition costs will be available very soon!
