Participating in Studio Events?

[Purr]

What benefits did you get from participating in studio events, like spotlight dances, showcases, and mini-competitions? Was it worthwhile, and you learned a lot from the experience? Was it fun, but you really didn't learn anything, and your time (and money) might have been better spent continuing with regular lessons? Or, are your sorry you participated?

 

[pygmalion]

Studio events such as showcases are among the few things that I can honestly say were a good value for me, even looking back. Dancing in front of others is a great way to get ready for competition. Definitely worth it, as long as the prices isn't exorbitant.

My studio charged $100 - $250 for participation in formations, which meant 8 - 10 group lessons on choreography and technique, plus a perforance opportunity. They charged $100 for each spotlight performance, which included an evening out dancing with the teachers. And the cost of showcases varied, depending on how many lessons you were buying from them. Mine were always included for free, but lots of people paid for the privilege. I could probably find out how much.

 

[dancin_feet]

We have all sorts of spotlights, mini comps, etc at our studio. None of which cost you any extra if you are doing private lessons. Spotlights are usually impromptu at a social practice party (did one last week with my instructor in WCS). Mini comps are a great way to get practice dancing in front of someone who is scrutinising you. I found it invaluable in the lead up to my exams. If you just take it as "performance practice" and a bit of fun, it really doesn't matter who wins. Though some people have been known to react badly if they don't get anything. :x Not in the spirit of the comp, I think.

Showcases are the major thing for me. Yes you do pay extra for them and they take about 6 months to put together and then perform, but for me, that is what I want to do, so I have no problem with the extra cost. The extra practice, styling and steps I have done has improved my dancing no end. Even though it was only for one dance, it has led to improvement across the board, especially in the area of confidence (which we all know is half the battle, right? ).

Was it fun? Well ..... for me any time I am dancing, I'm having fun so I would have to say a big YES!! :lol:

 

[Kitty]

What benefits did you get from participating in studio events, like spotlight dances, showcases, and mini-competitions? Was it worthwhile, and you learned a lot from the experience? Was it fun, but you really didn't learn anything, and your time (and money) might have been better spent continuing with regular lessons? Or, are your sorry you participated?

In about 6 weeks my studio is having an event, and I'm debating the merits of participating. :?

For two weeks before team is going to a real comp our coach gives us a mini-comp at the end of each practice. Mini-comps are a good idea because you learn how to walk on and off the floor and practice dancing in a stressful situation. By doing mini-comps I learned how to smile on the dance floor while watching out for leads and technique. Also you know that if you are dancing for longer than 3 weeks and you didn't make the final - you were off beat or your frame collapsed.

 

[SamanthaDance]

I have done match-comps and showcases with my studio. For me, the first match comp I wasn't ready for, as I had not been dancing long enough I didn't think. But after it was over, the experience was great. The two showcases I have performed in, helped my dancing a lot. As dancin_feet mentioned, it also helped my dancing across the board. The expense was great for some of the showcases, but worth it for me. I think the value for each individual is different. Each person has a "break even" point where the expense and value cross.

I have a goal of competing in some kind of regional comp in the next 6-12 months, so the experience of performing in front of others has helped me with that aspect of dance.

And above all, I have had fun!