Be prepared!

There's a lesson to be learned from the Boy Scouts: we should always be prepared. This is so important in a performance situation such as contest, shows and auditions. Even dress rehearsals require preparation to be of any benefit to the dancers.

A huge part of being prepared is being organized. I was lucky to have had two high school directors who emphasized having a systematic approach to performance scenarios. Here are some "secrets" to staying sane while you're backstage.

Make sure you have a copy of the schedule of events if one is available. The majority of the time, directors will have an agenda. If your director does not give your team copies of it, you may want to ask for one for your reference. If you are given a schedule, DON'T LOSE IT! Keep it in a place where you will easily find it, like in your make-up bag. Knowing exactly what time you perform, how much time you have to change, eat, and wait will make things seem less hectic.

Another list you'll want to secure or make for yourself is a checklist of costumes and accessories you will need to bring. My directors both typed out a detailed costume list for each routine. We also had a general list of items to pack.

Speaking of items, one thing I learned from experience is that if you have more than one of something, you should bring it just in case (provided you have room in your bags.)

Whenever possible, bring extra:

• Safety pins

• Bobby pins

• Barrettes

• Elastic hair ties

• Hairspray

• Needle and thread

• Scissors

• Tights

• Tissue/napkins/baby wipes

• Medicine

• Personal supplies

When packing your bag(s), don't forget extra copies of your music! If you are doing a solo or ensemble and your tape self-destructs, you don't want to miss performing because you don't have backup copy.

And speaking of packing, one strategy that works wonderfully is the "plastic freezer bag method." Pack each costume in a large, sealable plastic bag that is labeled with the corresponding dance. Put any shoes in the plastic bag, too, if they'll fit. If your travel bag will accommodate "filing" your costumes, you might also want to set them in with the outfits you'll need first closer to the front.

After everything is packed, DOUBLE CHECK! TRIPLE CHECK! Have someone else check!

There's another idea you might take into consideration: have a "checking partner" to look you over once you've put on your costume. You don't want to have straps showing, safety pins unclasped, a loose hat, crooked ponytails, etc.

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