It’s hard to believe June will be upon us next week and for PSOD, this means the culmination of a wonderful dance year featuring our Spring Recital.  This year’s theme is “Dream Big!” and as always, exciting new merchandise will be available for purchase during this festive weekend at Eden Prairie High School.

Many of you look forward to this event with eager anticipation and for others, it’s a somewhat dreaded time.  Not only do young dancers become stressed and nervous about the performance, but many parents experience anxiety as well.  There’s a lot to pack and a lot to remember but there’s also a lot you can do well in advance to ensure your recital weekend experience is pleasant and memorable (in a good way!)

PSOD’s TIPS FOR SURVIVING RECITAL WEEKEND

1. Plan ahead.
   Start planning a week before the recital. Make a list of everything you will need, including: make-up, bun kit with extra bobby pins, costumes, tights, dance shoes, accessories, water bottle, snacks, and camera.  Practice making your recital bun and makeup application if need be.
2. Arrive on time.
   Plan to arrive at the Eden Prairie High School PAC early for both Dress Rehearsal and Recital.  You’ll need time to set up in the designated dressing room and your child may need to make another restroom stop upon arrival.  Please refer to your Recital hand-out (given to you by your teacher in class) for exact times and dressing room locations.
3. Label all costumes, shoes and accesories.
   Many girls in the same classes are the same size.  Please keep track of your child’s belongings by labeling everything (from costumes to hairbrushes).  This will save you time and confusion in the long run.
4. Bring boredom busters.
   Recital days can be extremely tiring for young dancers and parents alike.  Pack a few quiet games, such as a deck of cards, to quietly pass the time.  Paper and crayons or colored pencils really go a long way (no markers, please).  You are welcome to bring a large blanket for your dancer to “camp out on” in the dressing room.
5. Relax!
   For many families, recitals only happen once a year.  Your child will be excited and anxious and look to you for extra affirmation.  It’s not always easy watching your own child perform on stage; in fact,  you might be the one who is more nervous!  Try to relax and enjoy this special day in your young dancer’s life.

More Helpful Tips:

1. Practice — yes, there’s still time!
   Your child will be more confident about performing on stage if he or she knows the routines.
2. Make sure your child is rested.
   Recitals are exhausting.  A little extra sleep the week before the recital will go a long way.
3. Expect to wait.
   Patience is appreciated by ALL during recital weekend, especially during dress rehearsals; dancers and instructors are working their hardest to bring you a fantastic performance so please be on time and also a bit flexible.
4. Purchase your recital tickets ahead of time online at prairieschoolofdance.com.
5. Visit / Ask for help — this is the perfect time to get to know other dance families at PSOD.  If your dancer isn’t crazy about her hair or your concerned his/her makeup isn’t quite bright enough, please ask for help!  Any of our older Performing Arts dancers are practically experts in recital-readiness and would be glad to assist you!  (Their moms and dads know the ropes, too, so please reach out to ensure your family enjoys the whole experience as much as possible!)
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