April 7, 2025 njads
Now, for those of you new to the world of dance, you might be wondering, “What on earth is a dance recital?” No worries, we are here to demystify this spectacular event, and we will explain every step of the process as it happens. Updates will be sent via email as well as posted on our Facebook Parent Group and Recital Webpage.
A dance recital is essentially a showcase where our talented students get to display their hard-earned skills, performing on stage for friends and family. Think of it as the Super Bowl, but instead of bulky shoulder pads and aggressive tackles, we have tutus, tap shoes, and moves so sharp they could cut tension in the room.
Here’s what to expect:
- Costumes: Dancers have all been measured already and costumes ordered. As costumes arrive, we will try them on in class, and send them home once they are ready. Yes, they are sparkly. Yes, your child will want to wear them to bed. And yes, you’ll find glitter in places you didn’t know existed for months to come. Please place them somewhere safe, and do not allow your child to wear their costume to dance class. It is to be worn on Picture Day/Recital only, and is then yours to do whatever you want with after the performance is over.
- Dance Shoes and Tights: We will email classes as costumes are ready to go home advising what tight colour and shoes are needed. If you need to purchase shoes/tights come visit our Dance Shop inside our Hamilton location, as we will have everything your dancer needs. We keep pricing reasonable (usually less than other dance shops), and make it easy to get everything you need for your child’s performance!
- Recital Routine: Dancers will start learning their routine soon (if they haven’t already). No need to stress, they will have plenty of time to practice in class! Our younger dancers will have their class assistants on stage to ensure they remember their dance. We take videos of their routine and post them in the Parent Portal under Info / Documents and Files for dancers wishing to practice at home.
- Picture Day: Will be held for all classes at our Hamilton location 833 Upper James Street, Rear Unit on Sunday, April 27th. Dancers are to arrive in costume with hair groomed in the style indicated for their class, and lighter make up than for performance day. Deep breath, no need to panic at the mention of makeup. Keep it simple; think “natural with a dash of sparkle,” not “unicorn in a glitter storm.” Our goal is to have our dancers smiles shine bright on stage and in front of the camera, we don’t want them to look washed out under the bright lights. Mascara, blush and a bit of lip gloss or lipstick for younger dancers, and add foundation and eyeshadow for older students. Check out our Recital Tips Playlist on our YouTube Channel for hints and tips on hair, makeup and more.
- Performance Day and Ticket Sales! Pre-Level and Thursday classes will perform on Thursday, June 12th, and all other clases on Sunday, June 15th. Both performance are held at the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre, 357 Wilson Street East. Tickets will be on sale SOON! We hold 2 tickets per dancer for the month of April, to ensure all parents have a chance to purchase tickets for the event. After the cap is removed, tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please note: We typically SELL OUT every year. DO NOT DELAY in purchasing your 2 guaranteed tickets, as once tickets sell out, there is nothing we can do to assist you.
We’re incredibly proud of all our dancers and can’t wait to see them light up the stage and camera. Our Dance Recital and Picture Day are not just about the final performance or the perfect shot; it’s about celebrating the journey, the growth, and the joy of dance. So, let’s get ready to dazzle, laugh, and maybe shed a proud tear or two. Here’s to making memories that will last a lifetime!