Dance competitions are an amazing chance to show off everything you’ve worked for, get valuable feedback, and see some incredible talent. There’s so much energy, bright lights, music blasting, and that little extra sparkle in the air—plus, let’s not forget about all that hairspray! Whether it’s your first time on stage or you’ve competed before, the nerves can still creep up before you hit that floor. I’ve put together some tips to help you feel your best and shine at your next competition—so you can leave with a smile and make those judges remember you!
Don’t Be Intimidated by the Judges
It’s easy to get nervous when you see the judges sitting there, but the last thing you want is to freeze up. Try to make eye contact with them—it’ll show that you’re confident, and yes, they notice it. Don’t feel like you need to keep staring at them, but giving a quick smile and looking them in the eye says a lot. If that feels too intense, look just above their heads or between them. It’s all about projecting confidence, even if you’re feeling a little shy. You’ve put in the hard work, so own it! Walk on stage like you deserve to be there, and trust yourself. Tell yourself "I’ve got this," and you’ll start to believe it. Confidence makes all the difference.
Nail Your Choreography
A solid routine can take your performance to the next level. A good choreographer will help you bring out your strengths and build a piece that speaks to the audience emotionally. But remember, it’s not just about the moves—it’s how you perform them. Play with dynamics in your dancing: mix the subtle movements with bigger, more explosive ones. It’ll make you stand out and let your personality shine through. Try to stick to the choreography you’ve worked on and avoid last-minute changes—this isn’t the time to be worrying about revisions. And don’t forget to smile! It's easy to get caught up in the steps and forget to express yourself with your face. Keep that smile on, and even if you mess up, it won’t be as noticeable. But if you look stressed, the audience will notice, so stay positive.
Practice Like You Mean It
You know the saying—practice makes perfect, right? The time you put in at the studio will pay off when you step onto that stage. The more you rehearse full-out, the more stamina you’ll build, and the more comfortable you’ll feel with the routine. Practice your entries and exits, facial expressions, and making sure your body doesn’t stop at your neck—your face is just as important as your feet. Performing in front of an audience before the competition can also help you get used to that nervous energy and build confidence. Plus, doing it in costume and makeup will get you used to all those details, so they don’t catch you off guard.
Prep Ahead of Time
Being prepared goes beyond rehearsing. Make sure you have everything you need for the competition ready to go: snacks, drinks, your costume, and an emergency kit. Things like extra tights, bobby pins, hair ties, and a few safety pins can be lifesavers. You also want to know where the competition is being held and how to get there. Plan your route in advance, especially with roadwork or parking issues—no one wants to stress over being late!
Look After Your Body
You’ve been working hard, and taking care of yourself is just as important as rehearsing. Make sure to warm up before you perform—this helps prevent injuries and calms those nerves. Find a quiet spot to stretch and focus on yourself. Don’t worry about what other dancers are doing—just focus on your own preparation. Eating well is also key: keep your energy up with healthy foods, plenty of water, and get enough rest. Sleep is essential for muscle recovery, so don’t skimp on it leading up to the competition.
It’s All About You
Remember, at the end of the day, it’s your journey. Focus on your own growth, your artistry, and how far you’ve come, rather than comparing yourself to others. Competing is fun, but it’s not everything. Your future in dance isn’t defined by how many trophies you have—it’s about the progress you’ve made, the skills you’ve gained, and the joy you get from dancing. Just relax, do your best, and celebrate how much you’ve accomplished so far!
Now go out there and show them what you’ve got—Chookas! x