Download LETTER FROM DIRECTOR: Dear Parents and Students: Since 1994

IX. RECITAL HANDBOOK
“H-town”
Recital 2011
LETTER FROM DIRECTOR:
Dear Parents and Students:
Since 1994 Vicki Michelle has provided excellent training with a performance opportunity through its
May recital. A staple of the dance school, recital conjures images of childhood for many. This recital
is a right of passage for students to shine in front of family and friends, allowing them to present
their year of hard work, dedication, and progress. Part of the dance training process includes
learning through performance. Recital builds self-esteem, self-assurance, and contributes to
confidence. Although performance opportunities can help prepare some students for a future in
dance or theater, it also contributes to success in other areas such as better school presentations,
improved social skills, and strong interview skills for future college and job opportunities. The
rehearsal process helps develop retention and teamwork skills with a group performance to create
the best end result. Recital commitments are a team effort; students, parents, instructors, and
directors are key to its success. We created this handbook to clarify what we expect from you in
terms of commitments and responsibilities to the recital, school, fellow students, and parents. Good
Luck!
Vicki Bull, School Director
RECITAL PACKET:
Packet includes performance order for your child, including their dress rehearsal time. You may order
special items like an ad in souvenir program, recital t-shirt, additional tickets for family and friends, and a
memorable DVD. Please consider volunteering for the show as all of the performers will greatly benefit
from your help. Order forms are due by February 17th in original envelope. If you have yet to
experience a dance recital, stop by boutique to check out last year’s recital DVD. This is a sure way to get
your child excited for the big day!
HOME STUDY:
To ensure students feel confident about their performance, we ask parents to encourage them to practice
recital choreography. To receive a copy of your child’s music, bring their instructor $2. You may
also video the routine in class.
TICKETS:
You receive 4 tickets for each child with your recital fee. Performers do not need a ticket. Limited seating
is available. Tickets are reserved seating for $10 each and must be ordered by February 17th. We will
seat your family together and try to meet any special needs. Tickets ordered after this date may not be
seated with your party. They will be distributed prior to recital. Outstanding account balances must be
paid in full in order to receive recital tickets.
DAD’S DANCE:
Be a part of our 6th annual dad’s dance! Dad’s dance will be in Rodeo section at the 3 pm recital. This
dance is one of the highlights of our show. They will be dancing to “Thank God I’m A Country Boy.” Dad’s
attire is as follows: Long sleeve button down shirt and blue jeans (cowboy hat and boots if you have
them.) Your child will cherish this memory forever plus its fun meeting other dads while being country!
CLASS MOM:
One mom per class is needed during rehearsal and recital (you will see your child perform from the
audience). Class mom accounts for each child, checks for proper costume (accessories and shoes), and is
near stage at appropriate time. Only instructors and staff will be allowed in the wings.
COSTUMES:
This is a costume recital. Costumes will be distributed prior to picture days. Student and parent are
responsible for costume and accessories until May recital.
Costume Care:
Label all costumes, accessories, shoes, and tights. Place costumes in garment bag with your child’s name
on outside and accessories in a Ziploc with your child’s name on bag and each item. Press all costumes
prior to recital.
Tights:
To ensure there are no discrepancies in color and style, students are required to purchase Leo’s tights in
color specified for their class. Please purchase new tights for recital and do not wash or wear them prior
to dress rehearsal and recital. (Note: An extra pair of tights offers student and parent a sense of
security.)
Shoes: Should be clean for recital. Shoe style varies by class, see your instructor.
HAIR & MAKEUP:
Recital Portraits: You choose. These are your portraits for family and friends to enjoy for years to
come. Stage makeup is usually too much for a photograph.
Dress Rehearsal & Recital: Girls are required to wear makeup on recital day: Red lipstick (pink for
baby ballet and preschoolers), blush, brown eye shadow, and mascara. Boys should use a little blush.
Students new to recital should wear makeup at dress rehearsal to ensure correct amount for stage
lighting. Uniform hairstyles are required. Girls wear hair in a high bun.
PLANNING AHEAD:
Recital is more than a one-day event. Gather all costumes, accessories, shoes, and makeup several days
in advance so you will know if something is missing or is not right. Check performance order sheet and
number each costume on outside of garment bag (silver Sharpie works great) in performance order. In
addition to extra tights, we recommend you bring hair gel, hair nets, bobby pins, hairspray, and the
following:
Baby wipes (to fix makeup mistakes/wash hands)
Tide pen (to remove stains)
Baby powder (for itchy costumes)
Safety pins (for emergency costume repairs)
Clear nail polish (to repair minor holes or runs in tights)
Pain reliever of choice
Invisible Band-Aids
PROGRAMS:
Each child will receive the souvenir program. If you want additional books, they must be ordered in
advance for $10 each. Remember to order a Good Luck Ad!
DRESS REHEARSAL:
Dress rehearsal allows students to become familiar with the theatre surroundings and feel comfortable
with their performance, costume, and being on stage. Lighting, music cues, set changes, and other
logistics for an organized and professional performance are rehearsed so students make the best possible
impression. Students must attend dress rehearsal in order to perform. Your child is required to
stay for their entire rehearsal time to practice their dance and finale. We run an organized rehearsal; your
help with the process will guarantee a smooth production. Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled
rehearsal with your child dressed in their first costume (wear cover-up). Dressing rooms are for multiple
costume changes only. Separate dressing room for boys.
Dressing Room Etiquette:
Students should respect each others space and property. Please keep dressing rooms clean, organized,
and free of food and drink.
Dress Rehearsal guests:
One parent or guardian may accompany student to dress rehearsal. Only siblings in recital are allowed
inside the theatre.
Video & Photography:
Cameras and camcorders are strictly prohibited during rehearsal and performances, as it is dangerous to
performers and distorts DVD.
Theatre Etiquette:
No food or drinks allowed in theatre. Cell phones must be off during performances. Remain seated until
the conclusion of a performance. Applause is appreciated (no calling out names or cheering). Please
remove crying children.
SHOW TIME:
Students must arrive in first costume 30-minutes prior to show. Locate “class mom” who will supervise
students before performance. Each class will exit directly into theatre. Someone must be present to
receive your child. Children in multiple dances will exit backstage. Plan to stay for entire recital so we
maintain order, quiet, and respect for all students who want to feel the joy and excitement of performing
for a full house.
Backstage:
Students must be quiet while waiting in wings. Due to limited space backstage, only VM staff and
volunteers are permitted. If you wish to greet a dancer, please do so in the lobby area.
Enjoy The Show!