We're busy working hard towards our show and I'm so excited for our audiences to see what we've been up to! Whilst many of our dancers and families are familiar with how RMB Dance shows run, for several this will be their first. So, I've answered some common questions to help prepare for show day!
What is the stage like?
This year, we’re performing at the Magnusson Theatre. The way I'm describing the theatre to the children is that it's "like a cinema" - the stage is on floor level with tiered audience seating. The stage area is a little bigger than where we performed last year, and a bit smaller than the Crags studio.
How big is the audience?
The Magnusson Theatre has 120 seats. In the past our audiences have been full, so I'm predicting the same this year!
How long does the show last?
Like last year, we're performing 2 shows. Each show has an estimated running time of around 45 minutes. There's no interval, and this seems a good length for both the audience and performers.
What happens at the morning rehearsal?
The morning rehearsal is a chance for the children to see the theatre, try their routines on stage and get a feel for how the show will run. It's also a nice opportunity to get a glimpse of other classes' routines, especially as they're not all performing in the same show.
Why do the preschool children sit in the audience during the show?
I find that having our pre-school dancers sit with their grown ups in the audience helps them stay settled and reassured during the show. Having that extra bit of support helps them feel comfortable coming onto the stage when it's their turn.
Where do the primary-age classes sit?
Our primary-age classes sit together at the front during the show, in front of the audience seating. I think it's nice for them to see and support each other (rather than being backstage), and they enjoy sitting with their friends whilst having the support of the audience behind them.
What if my child doesn't want to go on stage?
I've found that actually children are often more nervous or anxious in the rehearsal, when they're seeing the stage for the very first time. In the past, we've had children who haven't participated in the rehearsal but then have got up on stage during the show and performed amazingly!
Each class performs 2 routines, which means children have a second chance if they don't want to go on stage the first time. If they don't want to perform on stage at all, there will always be more shows in the future to try again and they'll have gained a lot from being there and seeing the show.
My child is worried about forgetting their moves - what happens if they forget on stage?
We've been doing lots of practising to help us feel confident with the moves. Also, during the show, I'll be at the front of the stage to provide support throughout the routines and assist where needed. For our youngest dancers, I'll dance with them at the side of the stage.
My child says they're nervous... is that good?
I always says to the children that nerves are GOOD, because it tells me that they care about the show and want to do a good job. We talk about turning our nerves into energy to make our moves the biggest and best we can! Our shows aim to be as encouraging and pressure-free as possible; it's just about getting up on stage and showing what we love to do in class 😀
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