Whether this is your first performance or your 100th, it’s important to exhibit proper backstage etiquette always while at a backstage at a performance. Most teachers have their own take on backstage rules and conduct. Below are some general ideas to help make your performances run smoothly.
Don’t mess with other others belongings, costumes or props
This can be expected backstage at any type of performance. You NEVER touch other’s belongings. This can lead to misplacement of important costuming or props that can and will delay the performance. If personal items are misplacing, this can also leave a window for items to get broken or damaged, again causing delay in the performance and upsetting people.
Remain in your designated area
Although you may be familiar with backstage area, it is important to remain in your designated area always. It may be tempting to go into a friend’s dressing area, but to keep chaos to a minimum – please stay with your group. Instructors have a lot of kids to keep track of and staying in your designated area will help them keep all students accounted for. If you are not in your area, this could lead to missing entrances or causing others to miss theirs.
Focus and keep socializing to a minimum
There is a lot of excitement and energy at a performance. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement with your friends backstage causing noise levels to rise, creating a distracting environment for those around you. It is important to save your energy for the performance and celebrate AFTER a successful show! Bring your music to practice, a book to read or stretch quietly to conserve your energy.
Keep Quiet Backstage
It is very tempting to chat backstage while waiting your turn to perform, however, it’s very disrespectful to fellow dancers on stage. Backstage is not the place to go over choreography, ask questions or have conversations. Always remember if you can see the audience, they can see you.
Be responsible for yourself, and yourself alone
Everyone is expected to be responsible for themselves. Teachers or those in authority are to take care of any disorderly students. If you notice someone has missed an important direction, calmly let them know and move on. When you worry about what others are doing, it distracts from your own cues, costume changes and entrances.
No arguing
Lastly, it is of most importance to be respectful and courteous during a performance. This is applicable to teachers, parents, volunteers and students. By the time it is ShowTime, you should know who is designated to help. If you are asked to quiet down, line up or any other common questions to help things go smoothly, just do it. Arguing and attitude will NOT help the situation. If there is a direction given to you that sounds off, you can ask politely to double check you are following the correct instructions.