Dance competitions are a great way to showcase your talent and compete with other dancers. However, preparing items to bring to dance competitions can be stressful, especially when you are not sure what to bring. In this blog post, we will provide you with a checklist for things to take to dance competitions.

Dance Shoes

It goes without saying that you should have your dance shoes with you. Be sure to pack both your competition and practice shoes. If you have multiple pairs, it is always a good idea to take them all with you. That way, if one pair gets damaged or lost, you will still have another pair to wear. If shoes are scuffed or worn, paint can make them as good as new. Energetiks make Ultra Flexible Shoe Paint just for this purpose.

Dance Costumes

Make sure you have all the costumes, outfits, and accessories you need for your performance. Check that everything is clean, pressed, and in the right size. It is also a good idea to have a spare outfit or two, just in case something happens to your primary outfit. Studio 7 Costume bags are great for keeping all costume elements together.

Personal Items

Bring a bag of personal items that you may need throughout the day, such as a water bottle, snacks, makeup, hairspray, deodorant, and a towel. You should also bring extra hair ties, bobby pins, and safety pins.

Music

Don’t forget to bring your music on a USB drive or CD. Be sure to test it out before you leave for the competition to ensure it works correctly. Consider having a backup copy just in case something happens to the original. Different competitions have different specifications on how to submit music, make sure you a familiar with the competition you are attending. A unique way to label USBs is to attach a key tag with dancer’s name, section number and genre. These key tags can be attached to most USBs.

First Aid Kit

Accidents happen even to the most experienced dancers. Pack a basic first aid kit containing band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medication you may need.

Sewing Kit

You never know when you may need a costume repair, it pays to have thread, needle, scissors, screwdriver (for tap plates) and tape. There are many mini sewing kits on the market, here is the Tendu Ultimate Dancer’s Sewing Kit.

Cash

While most dance competitions accept credit cards, it is always a good idea to have cash with you. You may need to purchase food or drinks at the event, buy souvenirs, or pay for parking. Many dance competitions may be held in halls and community venues that don’t have EFTPOS facilities so it pays to be prepared.

Warm-up and post-competition clothes

Bring comfortable and warm clothes to wear before and after your performance. You don’t want to catch a cold or risk getting injured by not warming up enough. Comfortable clothes for after the event should also be considered.

Dance competitions can be stressful, but having a checklist of things to take can make the preparation process easier. Make sure to bring everything you need and double-check your bag before leaving for the competition. Finally, don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the experience!

Let us know any competition preparation tips you have below.