First Performance
Jitters
It is that time of year, when our littlest Woodbury Dance
Center dancers (tots, Preschoolers and Kindergartners) have their first
performance of the year! We are so
excited to share with you what they have been working on so far this season at
our Holiday Viewing Parties. For many of
these dancers, this may be their first time in front of an audience. And with that may come some hesitation.
How can we all help them with any ‘stage
fright’ they may experience?
Here are a few tips:
- Talk about the performance in the weeks leading up to the big show. Explain that you and all of their dance friend’s families will be there and everyone is excited to see them dance.
- Talk about any stage fright jitters you may have experienced in the past. Real life stories about your feelings and how you overcame them will help with their confidence.
- For dancers in Preschool and Kindergarten classes talk about what dances they will be performing for you.
·
Read a book!
Here are a few suggestions:
o
“Angelina on Stage” by Helen Craig
o
“The Berenstain Bears Get Stage Fright” by Stan
Bernestain
o
“Celestine,
Drama Queen” by Penny Ives
o
“Grin and Bear It” by Leo Landry (recommended
for ages 5-9)
o
“The I’m NOT SCARED Book” by Todd Parr
o
“Mia and the Daisy Dance” by Robin Farley
o
“Pigmalion” by Glenda Leznoff
o
“Sasha’s First Stage Show” by Karuna Barla
- On the day of the big performance, don’t disregard any scared feelings. Explain to your dancer that even grown-ups are nervous sometimes. Remind them that their teacher will be there with them and to just watch them and follow along.
- Oh no, your dancer has decided that she/he will not participate during the show. Don’t over react, it is pretty normal to have at least one dancer refuse to show off all that they have learned. Let them watch, seeing their friends perform may help them to gain confidence and to eventually join in.
And CONFIDENCE is a key word….I have seen dancers leery all
year about everything from entering the dance room, trying new steps and
performing at the holiday show. But come
recital time, that same dancer is shining on stage. It is all part of the learning process for
them and we encourage them every ‘step’ of the way.
Happy Dancing!
~Kathy Mueller
Co-owner, Dance Instructor
at Woodbury Dance Center
