The holiday season is filled with special performances, from Nutcracker productions to holiday recitals and community shows. For dancers and their families, preparing for these events can feel a little different than the usual routine. Holiday shows bring an extra dose of excitement—and a few extra considerations!
Here’s a guide to making the most of holiday performance season, with tips on everything from prepping costumes to staying healthy.
1. Organizing Costumes and Accessories for the Season
Holiday performances often involve more elaborate costumes and accessories. To stay organized, make a list of all costume elements and accessories your dancer will need, from headpieces to shoes.
- Label Everything: Labeling costumes and accessories ensures nothing gets misplaced backstage. Use fabric-safe labels for leotards, tights, and even small items like hair accessories.
- Pack an Emergency Kit: Safety pins, double-sided tape, and a mini sewing kit are lifesavers for quick costume fixes.
- Check Costume Fit: Since holiday shows are seasonal, try costumes on early in case any adjustments are needed before the big day.
We carry various costume accessories at The Dance Shoppe to help you get recital-ready. Stop by to grab any last-minute extras for the holiday shows!
2. Managing Makeup and Hair for Holiday Performances
Stage makeup and festive hair can add a special touch to holiday performances, helping dancers shine under the spotlight.
- Create a Makeup Bag: Put together a small bag with foundation, blush, lipstick, and eye makeup tailored for the stage. Choose holiday shades like warm reds or soft golds to match the festive spirit.
- Holiday Hair Accessories: Decorative hairpins or ribbons can add a touch of holiday cheer. Look for pieces that match your dancer’s costume and make them feel extra special.
- Practice Ahead of Time: Practicing makeup and hair a few times before the performance can reduce stress on show day. For younger dancers, parents might want to set aside time to master the hair and makeup routine.
If you’re looking for fun, festive makeup options, check out our selection of stage-ready makeup and holiday hair accessories at The Dance Shoppe.
3. Staying Healthy and Energized During Holiday Performances
With holiday festivities, travel, and rehearsals all happening at once, keeping your dancer healthy is important to ensure they feel their best on stage.
- Stay Hydrated: Dance performances can be long, so staying hydrated is essential. Pack a water bottle that can be refilled throughout the day.
- Healthy Snacks: Keep snacks on hand that provide quick energy, like nuts, fruit, and granola bars. Avoid sugary treats right before showtime, as they can cause an energy crash.
- Prioritize Rest: With holiday activities piling up, help your dancer get plenty of rest, especially in the days leading up to the performance.
A healthy, rested dancer is a happy dancer! Encourage a balanced schedule so your dancer can enjoy the holiday season and their time on stage.
4. The Performance Day Checklist
The day of the performance can be a little hectic, especially with added holiday excitement. Here’s a quick checklist to keep things running smoothly:
- Double-Check Costume and Makeup: Do a final check of all costumes, shoes, makeup, and hair supplies.
- Bring Extras: Extra tights, hair ties, and snacks are always good to have on hand in case of last-minute needs.
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive with plenty of time to settle in, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the venue or need extra time to adjust costumes.
For any last-minute supplies, visit The Dance Shoppe—we’re stocked up on tights, hair accessories, and everything else you need to make performance day stress-free!
5. Capturing the Holiday Performance Memories
Holiday performances make for special memories, so be sure to capture the magic!
- Take Photos Before and After: Set aside a few moments for photos before the performance and once again after the curtain closes. These make great keepsakes, especially in festive costumes!
- Celebrate After: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, celebrate your dancer’s hard work and the success of their performance. It’s a wonderful way to close the curtain on another year of dance.
Join Us at The Dance Shoppe for All Your Holiday Performance Needs!
Holiday shows are a unique and memorable part of every dancer’s journey. At The Dance Shoppe, we’re here to make sure your dancer feels prepared and excited for every moment on stage. From costumes and accessories to practical supplies, we have everything you need to make the holiday performance season truly magical.
Happy holidays and happy performing!