Courtesy A Wish Come True
Studio owners who've been in the recital game for a while have likely seen thousands of dance costumes pass through their hands.
But with the hustle and bustle of recital time, we don't always stop to think about where exactly those costumes are coming from, or how they are made.
If we want our costumes to be of the same high quality as our dancing—and for our costume-buying process to be as seamless as possible—it helps to take the time to learn a bit more about those costumes and the companies making them.
We talked to the team at A Wish Come True—who makes all their costumes at their factory in Bristol, Pennsylvania—to get an inside look at what really goes into making a costume, from conception to stage.
<span style="display:block;position:relative;padding-top:56.25%;" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4b570dee859051b3e68ed69561967dc9"><iframe lazy-loadable="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cQmug9uAC2Q?rel=0" width="100%" height="auto" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;"></iframe></span>
Costume ideas can come from anywhere.
<p>How is a costume born? At <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a>, inspiration can come from just about anywhere: A fun movie character, an exciting new fabric, or an idea to ramp up an older best seller.</p><p>Most designs for <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a>'s 100% USA-made costumes are submitted by a dedicated team of designers, but everyone at the company is encouraged to submit designs if they'd like. Eva Jeanne Tanenbaum, <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a>'s interactive marketing coordinator, is usually responsible for running the company's social media accounts and updating their website. But recently, she submitted her first design idea—and it'll make its debut in this year's catalogue. </p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzUzOTI4MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTU5OTIwNzgwM30.-nnoNBOU1Di1y88xOQvqqk_gndM6ZrxzNVph-XvOc_k/img.jpg?width=980" id="a3952" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8aef80e4d35e44b3db0d0b29e79a525d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A young woman wearing a mask and a denim jacket with "wish" bedazzled on the back stands in front of a wall of shelves full of sequins" />
Eva Jeanne Tanenbaum
Courtesy A Wish Come True
Making a costume is a many-step process.
<p>Once a design is approved (it has to fall in line with <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a>'s aesthetic and make sense cost-wise), it goes to a pattern maker, who translates the design from a sketch on paper to a blueprint on a computer, notating how everything will be sewn together. </p><p>Then, a sample is made, and the designer will look at the sample on a dress form and decide on any changes that are needed. Once the design has been developed, a real-life dancer comes into the picture. At this stage, <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> photographs the design for the catalogue, using the opportunity to ask the dancers questions about the costume's fit and comfort, in case it needs any further adjustments. Then, once more size samples are created (to make sure that a costume for, say, a five-year-old dancer looks proportional to the same costume in an adult size), and all parts and pieces are accounted for, the costume is ready to be made-to-order for each customer.</p><p>This whole process is made easier at <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> because of the company's unique setup: The offices, where the designers and pattern makers work, are under the same roof as the factory, where the costumes are made, allowing for close collaboration between everyone involved. </p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzUzNDQwMS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMzYyMTE2NH0.hajpPRC1G9LZH9j6MXX81aEgBc9p_6WzV1TlFzqiAJ4/img.jpg?width=980" id="6727a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="af79a626456ed51677c024168f802030" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A little girl's costume on a dress form, with a sequined purple top and a purple tutu with polka dots" />
Courtesy A Wish Come True
Getting them right takes lots (and lots) of planning.
<p><a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a>'s 2021 catalogue hasn't even hit the market yet, and they're already working on styles for 2022. That's because the <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> team puts so much care into the design and production of each costume. That could mean poring over fabric catalogues "to find a fabric that will scream 'this looks like a pineapple,' " as pattern maker Stephanie Deni says. (Yes, that means we have a pineapple costume to look forward to.) Or, it could be the countless tests to ensure that sizing is consistent across the board. Deni, who has worked at <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> for almost 16 years, says that sometimes staff members even take a costume home to wash in their own washing machine, to ensure that colors don't bleed and sequins stay secured. </p>The set-up is designed to accommodate recital craziness.
<p>Ever had a student grow four inches between measurements and costume arrival? Or maybe you've heard the words "My dog ate my headpiece"? </p><p>Though these are nightmare scenarios for dance teachers, they are everyday occurrences at <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a>. Because the entire company—from customer service to design to production to packaging—is in the same building, it's easy for staff to make last-minute changes to orders. A customer service representative need just walk down the hall to the factory to see if an order could be expedited, or if that barrette is still in stock. </p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzUzNDM5My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMDI3MzMwN30.LoVruzF0wJobtcREiHsWoZPh7gtAQXTPPf3_vqSRmwo/img.jpg?width=980" id="90d0d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="1ba8dee3c6d94ec666f71ad9ee199ad1" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A woman sits at a desk in front of a computer, with a earpiece and her desk covered in papers" />
Laura is one of A Wish Come True's customer service representatives.
Courtesy A Wish Come True
Lots of sewing machines are involved—even a dedicated tutu machine.
<p>Not all sewing machines are created equal—in fact, <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> has a wide variety of sewing machines, all for different purposes, from the single-needle to the double-needle to the binding machine and more.</p><p>But perhaps none are as exciting as the tutu machines, which are custom-made for the <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> factory to help seamlessly create tutus with a variety of lengths of tulle.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzUzNDQwMi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzI5NjYwNH0.RxUuqmomTpKnfFSrUzlN3D-39AqXwlOjNJJJJqLSmHM/img.jpg?width=980" id="a5287" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b45574f69a12e837299812cc667a8e8d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A woman uses a large sewing machine to create a costume out of light purple tulle" />
A Wish Come True's tutu machine
Courtesy A Wish Come True
For every female costume, there can be a matching male costume.
<p><a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> knows that it's no fun for boys to be in boring black pants and t-shirts when their classmates are in exciting and detailed costumes. So they offer a wide selection of costume options for boys—and can make custom male designs to complement any female designs upon request. </p>It's a surprisingly small operation.
<p>Tanenbaum says that many people have the misconception that <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> is a huge company, when really it's a mom-and-pop family business, operating more like a dance studio than a corporation. "We have a marketing team of three people, and we also do the graphic design," she says. "So we're just like dance studio owners, who have to be an owner and a teacher and a costume manager and a mom. I love helping customers realize that we're a small business, and we're here to help their small business." (And for Tanenbaum, <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> is <em>literally</em> a family business: Her father has owned the company for over 10 years.)</p><p>Though they are small, they are mighty: During their busiest season, Tanenbaum says they can produce thousands of costumes a day, and production team members need to know how to create up to 700 different styles (not including colors!) at a time. Recently, the <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a> team took on a new challenge: Creating masks for their local hospital during the height of the pandemic. <br></p>There's a wall—yes, a wall—of sequins.
<p>And it's 20 feet tall. "It makes you happy just walking by it," says Deni.</p><p>There's also, unsurprisingly, lots of rhinestones, says Deni, which some staff members use to decorate denim jackets to wear to trade shows.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzUzOTI4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTU5Nzc1MjkzOX0.eLszcKPP_s-PYoVTknk5qq3owu9e16SyqVqfGbMyZAQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="31e97" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dd579bdd31f6ef6b0b0aea4626e4bc09" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A woman stands in front of a wall of shelves covered with rolls of colorful sequins. She wears a denim jacket that says "wish" on the back in rhinestones" />
The famous sequin wall
Courtesy A Wish Come True
Some costumes are made by former dancers and current dance parents.
<p>A number of <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a>'s designers and pattern makers are former dancers, says Tanenbaum. <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True </a>also makes colorguard costumes, and a few staff members are colorguard coaches on the side.</p><p>But it's the several dance parents who work at <a href="https://awishcometrue.com/" target="_blank">A Wish Come True</a>, including Deni, who get to truly see the full life cycle of the costumes they create at their own children's recitals. Deni says she's become the unofficial costume guru at her daughter's studio. "Seeing something go from lines on a paper to someone wearing it and dancing in it is just phenomenal," she says. "It is the most rewarding thing."</p>
Keep reading...
Show less
Photo courtesy of Baca and Lopes
In the three months that most studios across the country have been shuttered due to COVID-19, teachers and students alike have grown increasingly adept at teaching and taking class online.
But no matter how expertly you're able to communicate over Zoom, or how much you adjust your class to fit into a small space, if you and your students don't have a place to dance comfortably and distraction-free, it will be difficult to get the most out of training.
By encouraging your students to treat their home studio like the real thing (and doing the same for yourself!) you can optimize the virtual class experience.
<div id="89bfc" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5665b9634e83cc5d7a8146214591b4ee"><blockquote class="instagram-media"
data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0;
border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15);
margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px);
width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center;
width:100%;">
<div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC);
display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div></div><p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CAJRIndpibY/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif;
font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;
word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">Login • Instagram</a></p>
</div></blockquote></div>
Set the scene.
<p>Ever since her teaching schedule moved entirely to Zoom, Burklyn Ballet Theatre artistic director Joanne Whitehill has encouraged her students to approach virtual classes as though they were entering the studio. "It's a routine and a ritual to go into a dance studio," Whitehill says. "Being able to set up a home studio—no matter how big or small—is a mental stability for students."</p><p>While taking class in your kitchen or bedroom will never feel the same, you can take steps to ensure you're getting as close to pre-quarantined days as possible. <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/" target="_blank">Harlequin Floors</a> offers a <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/shop/home-studio/harlequin-dance-mat/" target="_blank">multi-purpose and slip-resistant dance mat</a> (<a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/shop/home-studio/practice-mat-bag/" target="_blank">and a smaller practice mat</a>, if you're working with limited space!) that can be used for everything from pointework to tap classes. Paired with a sturdy countertop or one of Harlequin's <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/products/freestanding-ballet-barres/" target="_blank">freestanding ballet barres</a> (and maybe even <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/products/glassless-mirrors/" target="_blank">a mirror</a>), teachers can properly demonstrate, and students can return to the familiar.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM4NDU3NS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMTk0NTM5M30.rrw6gYBM6vI0hv6YSiLcRnSkJl-Q1lfgddIYbBiXrrk/img.png?width=980" id="df926" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="865fbdecb431bc90b23fff97fb45bb30" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Physical therapist Holly Burns corrects a student's placement in her pointe shoes on the small square practice mat, branded with Harlequin's logo." />
Harlequin's smaller practice mat
Photo courtesy Holly Burns
<p>Pennsylvania Ballet star couple and master teachers Sterling Baca and Nayara Lopes own two <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/shop/home-studio/harlequin-dance-mat/" target="_blank">Harlequin dance mats</a> for their daily classes and cross-training. "We push our two mats together, and it has an immediate psychological effect," says Baca.</p><p>Supplemental studio tools, like a <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/shop/home-studio/harlequin-turning-board/" target="_blank">Harlequin Turning Board</a> or foam roller, can encourage more independent studio time for young dancers—especially important now as students are typically receiving less instruction time than usual. (Just make sure students have received proper training in how to use any additional tools.)</p><p>And if there were ever a time to install a sprung floor at home, it's now: Handy parents with fundamental carpentry skills can order a few panels of Harlequin's <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/floors/harlequin-flexity/" target="_blank">self-install sprung Flexity floor</a>, and give their dancer a safe area to practice jumps at home.</p><p>Luckily, Cleveland-based ballroom and tap teacher Fred Discenzo installed <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/floors/harlequin-flexity/" target="_blank">Harlequin's Flexity flooring</a> in his home basement last summer. His initial hope was to find a solution to growing knee and hip pain from home practice, but now, what was meant to be a rehearsal area for him and his wife has become a professional-quality haven for them to continue moving through the pandemic.</p><p>Not sure you want to dedicate that extra room or basement into a permanent studio space? Discenzo says that the flooring is easy to install and easy to move—so you only have to commit to the sprung floors as long as you need to.</p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM3ODE1Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMDI1Mjg1NH0.eW8mBRnNaeLF5_GAGZkLqNU0GO_FSrDrO0BSJu5o5iY/img.jpg?width=980" id="35875" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="96873e048d6c13728133e92491fa9040" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A large basement room outfitted with sprung wood floors and a sound system." />
Discenzo's home studio setup.
Photo courtesy Discenzo
Nail the routine.
<p>For dance mom Jodi Visco, creating a routine that involves the whole family has helped her 13-year-old keep up with her regular dance schedule on Zoom. Her daughter, Kate, has been using <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/shop/home-studio/harlequin-dance-mat/" target="_blank">Harlequin's dance mat</a> with an accompanying barre and mirror for her daily jazz, tap, modern and ballet classes in an available upstairs room. </p><p>"For us, it was a matter of separating spaces and staggering certain things," Visco says. It takes coordination and practice, but Visco has been able to schedule her conference calls around Kate's tap classes or her other daughter's music lessons. "We've been flexible working around each other," she says.</p><p>Whitehall agrees, adding that the most important thing parents can do for young dancers is to encourage them to act as if they were back in the studio environment. That means refraining from talking with passing family members or snacking while in a virtual class. </p><p>"The funniest thing I see when teaching on Zoom is when dancers raise their hand and ask to use the bathroom," she laughs. Even though young dancers are in their own homes, it's essential for them to feel as though they are giving their teachers the same respect as they would in person.</p><p>Finding a routine or regimen can also create a meaningful getaway from the stress of quarantining or sheltering-in-place. Whatever space you create as a teacher or student, make it an escape. "It's a joy I look forward to," says Discenzo of his own daily practice in his sprung home studio.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM3ODE3Mi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMTYwODE5NH0.28TX4A46SoOcAfS7DtzFWy0ywJKwlKiBunxyk8UViYY/img.jpg?width=980" id="eca73" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a1e0faf3d67b18fe146cc6af114d1648" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="The same basement floor, half of which is taped black vinyl, the other is the sprung wood" />
Discenzo's home studio in-process
Photo courtesy Discenzo
Quality over quantity.
<p>Parents might be tempted to put their dancer's mini-studio in the kitchen or move aside furniture in the living room, but Whitehill warns against this. "Dancers don't need to have a huge space," she says, emphasizing that taking class in more public spaces can actually lead to more distractions. </p><p>"We've been trying to inspire our students by reminding them that a lot of ballet technique is stationary, so there's no reason you can't improve with the space you have," says Baca. He reports that he's been following his own advice with barre work and small jumps on his dance mat, and has still seen improvement. </p><p>Just be sure to watch out for bad habits that crop up from limited space. "I see students adjust themselves to avoid the wall behind them, but they forget to bring their turnout along with them," Whitehall says. She recommends teachers draw their students' focus back to structural basics, especially the eight body positions in ballet technique. Whitehill has even had her students with <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/shop/home-studio/harlequin-dance-mat/" target="_blank">Harlequin dance mats</a> tape the four corners of their "box" to encourage proper facings, something she wouldn't have been able to do in a regular studio. </p><div id="bfee1" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5131c3a667fafc941eb10d5a280cbe9b"><blockquote class="instagram-media"
data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0;
border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15);
margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px);
width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center;
width:100%;">
<div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC);
display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div></div><p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CADuuChgzF5/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif;
font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;
word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">Login • Instagram</a></p>
</div></blockquote></div>
Don't forget to recharge.
<p>Lopes admits to feeling overwhelmed since COVID-19 closures upheaved her schedule, and advises teachers and students to set standards for what they can expect. That means finding an ending to your workday, too. Once you've finished with your day of Zoom classes, put your home studio equipment away (both Harlequin's <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/shop/home-studio/harlequin-dance-mat/" target="_blank">dance mat</a> and <a href="https://us.harlequinfloors.com/en/shop/home-studio/practice-mat-bag/" target="_blank">practice mat</a> can be rolled up, and the practice mat comes with a carrying bag), or go to another room where you can recharge. Creating a space to teach and train is just as important as creating a space to decompress at the end of the day.</p>
Keep reading...
Show less
Getty Images
Before COVID-19, dance studios varied widely in their use of technology.
Some were using highly sophisticated studio management systems—and some were still relying on good-old-fashioned paper trails.
<p>But then everything changed—practically overnight—and studios across the country began using technology for everything from communicating with parents and students to teaching classes to handling day-to-day operations. Some were more prepared for this change than others, but for many, it's clear that the way they manage their studios will never be the same.</p><p>So how can studio owners take the technological tools and expertise they've developed during the pandemic—and apply them to make things run smoother during "normal" times? And how can technology help studios as they develop much-needed new revenue streams?</p><p>We'll be addressing these questions and more at "Studio Technology in the Age of COVID-19," a free webinar sponsored by Akada Software and co-hosted by <em>Dance Business Weekly</em>, this Thursday at 3 pm ET. <a href="https://live.dancemedia.com/events/webinars/akada" target="_blank">Sign up here</a>—and bring your questions on all things studio technology. </p>
Keep reading...
Show less
Lana Kozol, Courtesy Ballet 5:8
Since the dance world changed overnight due to COVID-19, we've been bringing you constant content on how our community is adapting to the pandemic—from following dancers who are #SocialDisDancing to asking the experts for tips on taking class at home.
Now, we're launching Dance Media Live!, a class series with everything from ballet to Pilates to cardio to jazz, featuring some of our favorite teachers.
So join us on Zoom, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-2 pm ET, beginning May 7. Classes are $10 each.
Sign up here, and see the full class schedule below:
Past classes:
July 23: Flexibility Training with the Flexistretcher
<a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=FlexibilityTrainingJuly23" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzMyNzg3Ni9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyODQxNzQ4N30.yXq3nYpsufQPuL7MunVhsQFgrDIAf2S8revoGeqsPJw/img.png?width=980" id="bc3a8" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="da9e6c92f4b816eb5b512d55555660a5" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Joseph Miller, Courtesy Flexistretcher
<p>Join Rein Short for a <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=FlexibilityTrainingJuly23" target="_blank">60-minute stretch and strength class</a> specifically designed to address the needs of the dancer using the Flexistretcher tool.</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=FlexibilityTrainingJuly23" target="_blank">Sign up now</a>.</p>July 21: Advanced Ballet with Christopher Hird
<a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedBalletJuly21" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzQxMjUyNC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMjUzNjIzNH0.DQXKnus9LPDEe8P9LFocyFYxZ4FsgwoDuRX4iPsPPIk/img.png?width=980" id="cf497" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="0164f34db84a73dc39122a1da23668f6" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Frank Atura, courtesy Sarasota Ballet
<p>Join the Sarasota Ballet's director of education, Christopher Hird, for an <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedBalletJuly21" target="_blank">advanced ballet class</a> focused on artistry.</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedBalletJuly21" target="_blank">Sign up now</a>.</p><div class="htl-ad"
data-unit="dance_teacher/dt_desktop_medrec"
data-sizes="0x0:|1024x0:300x250"
data-prebid="0x0:|1024x0:dt_desktop_medrec"
data-refresh="viewable"
data-refresh-secs="45"
></div>
July 16: Ballet with Julianna Rubio Slager
<a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=BalletJuly16" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM5MDIxMC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MjM0MDQwN30.C4yai8XN4zzE7N1d2MVL_Rnd0RorU2sVIL2cXYH0EDQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="53001" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4299d6d73105896763a254006bba944a" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Lana Kozol, Courtesy Ballet 5:8
<p>Ballet 5:8 artistic director Julianna Rubio Slager will teach a <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=BalletJuly16" target="_blank">ballet technique</a> class with a focus on what she calls "the secrets to standout musicality."</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=BalletJuly16" target="_blank">Sign up here</a>.</p>July 14: Advanced Ballet with Nick Mullikin
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM3NTM5OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NTY1Njk4OX0.P9ElHmMGvb2eu3zL3RitXjvAM1iZLWyxIhXf8Y5Vko0/img.jpg?width=980" id="2a5f2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="15476e396dde7cddc50c781a07919b4e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Courtesy Nashville Ballet
<p>Join Nashville Ballet associate artistic director Nick Mullikin for an <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedBalletJuly14" target="_blank">advanced ballet class and Q&A</a> about the company.</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedBalletJuly14" target="_blank">Sign up here</a>.</p>July 9: Advanced Contemporary/Modern with Erin Thompson
<a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedContemporaryJuly9" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzQxMTg5OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyOTE2MDUwOH0.50cuZjReeZn9yM-1oMdYNVTrfUZIm81NvvaIHsm-5Ok/img.jpg?width=980" id="2e330" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b001ee6f6b479eb05cb595c667892504" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Randy Karels, courtesy Erin Thompson
<p>Bessie award-winning dancer Erin Thompson will teach an <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedContemporaryJuly9" target="_blank">advanced contemporary/modern </a>class including floorwork, standing warm-ups and phrase work—all redesigned for the home space.</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedContemporaryJuly9" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p><div class="htl-ad"
data-unit="dance_teacher/dt_desktop_medrec"
data-sizes="0x0:|1024x0:300x250"
data-prebid="0x0:|1024x0:dt_desktop_medrec"
data-refresh="viewable"
data-refresh-secs="45"
></div>
July 2: Advanced Hip Hop with Dance Labs
<a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedHipHopJuly2" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM3OTAzNy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNzkxMTE5NH0.TS5rJIrCzMoN_MRwsC0w5kTAQynb0HX70wZRS_JRy1Q/img.jpg?width=980" id="a1d86" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="98c33e9aba07818bca42caa084d161ac" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Misty Matthews, Courtesy Dance Labs
<p>Join Dance Labs faculty member Mckinley Hawkes for a high-energy <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedHipHopJuly2" target="_blank">advanced hip hop class</a>. The class will include a warm up and a fun, musical combination.</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedHipHopJuly2" target="_blank">Sign up here</a>.</p>June 30: Technique and Conditioning with Alyssa Beasley
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzMyNDc5NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzOTY1MTM1MH0.8_eojGmf593IPKO6b2WUYuNxlB_rJZkrafSy97RkNkY/img.jpg?width=980" id="8bbb0" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4f7f5913dd0f12cc860efc064529692f" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Chasity Strickland/YOUnique Photography, Courtesy Beasley
<p>Join Alyssa Beasley, regional director of Fusion National Dance Competition, for a <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=TechniqueConditioningJune30" target="_blank">technique-inspired conditioning and stretching class</a>.</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=TechniqueConditioningJune30" target="_blank">Sign up here</a>.</p>June 18: Movement as Medicine with Erica Hornthal
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzI4Nzk2My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMzM5MDY1MH0.b-IrRWW2CFH6gkeEFzTNXIbo21PtFZqfaddzKiMqXFU/img.jpg?width=980" id="b8555" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="acf809433b74798c4112a3e0ddb37e5f" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Mindy Garfinkle Photography
<p>Erica Hornthal, dance/movement therapist and professional counselor, will lead a <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=MovementMedicineJune18" target="_blank">guided movement meditation</a> designed to reduce stress and prioritize self care.</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=MovementMedicineJune18" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p><div class="htl-ad"
data-unit="dance_teacher/dt_desktop_medrec"
data-sizes="0x0:|1024x0:300x250"
data-prebid="0x0:|1024x0:dt_desktop_medrec"
data-refresh="viewable"
data-refresh-secs="45"
></div>
June 16: Advanced Ballet and Q&A with José Carayol
<a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedBalletJune16" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzI3MjY0My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxODA2MzE1OH0.elwadAG3Tc1zcgh85zPTQPnv94KyOGHN_94GtVHqswo/img.jpg?width=980" id="68387" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d6a19ce17aabcdff6521179d8e571107" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Bradford Rogne, Courtesy Joffrey Academy of Dance
<p>Join José Carayol, head of the Joffrey Academy of Dance's studio company and trainee program, for <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedBalletJune16" target="_blank">an advanced ballet class and Q&A. </a></p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=AdvancedBalletJune16" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p>June 11: Improv Flow with Savea Kagan
<a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=ImprovFlowJune11" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzI2MzUyNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwNTU4Mjc5MH0.G7kolsQ-N8sMVFREUfzEFtm2KiiaF-gZJukRXioLxbQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="39931" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6f5ef5bfb32f4fac96b18a3601682515" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Ginger Sole Photography, Courtesy Kagan
<p>Degas Dance Studio faculty member Savea Kagan will teach <a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=ImprovFlowJune11" target="_blank">an improv flow class</a>, a guided exploration that encourages dancers to take risks, let go, and get out of their habitual ways of moving.</p><p><a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=ImprovFlowJune11" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p>June 4: Contemporary Jazz with Natalie Stys
<a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=NatalieJune4" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzE3NjM1NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTU5OTI4NzczNH0.3-Dpiwq3X1lN5FWgE2CjX_UjGb_TvVsOOphunKVhKGk/img.jpg?width=980" id="e802b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="948cfa0e0d33921d264bd86ef230051d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>En Lin, Courtesy Stys
<p>Natalie Stys, a New York City-based dancer and choreographer, will teach <a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=NatalieJune4" target="_blank">a contemporary jazz class designed to push students to cultivate their artistic voice</a>. Class will include a conditioning-focused warm-up, guided improvisations and a combination with influences from hip hop, jazz, ballet and theater.</p><p><a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=NatalieJune4" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p><div class="htl-ad"
data-unit="dance_teacher/dt_desktop_medrec"
data-sizes="0x0:|1024x0:300x250"
data-prebid="0x0:|1024x0:dt_desktop_medrec"
data-refresh="viewable"
data-refresh-secs="45"
></div>
June 2: Ballet with Timour Bourtasenkov
<a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=CaryBalletJune2" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzE3MTU2Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NjI2NDEzOX0.ZSqF4KyWhqoxYIEb2ZEfHnXMMKRI6kAdmUvXdXMl1xI/img.jpg?width=980" id="37ae4" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a45472997a852c3824a7890c5baffbb4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Courtesy Cary Ballet Conservatory
<p>Join Cary Ballet Conservatory faculty member and Youth America Grand Prix judge Timour Bourtasenkov for <a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=CaryBalletJune2" target="_blank">an advanced/pre-professional level ballet class</a>.</p><p><a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=CaryBalletJune2" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p>May 28: Intermediate Pilates Mat with Elizabeth Lowe Ahearn
<a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=GoucherMay28" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzE2MjQwNy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MDM0Nzc1MX0.yEkoZ-wep2LoWyfMdFzqLkcGd11koN8ttxu_9cBI6uw/img.jpg?width=980" id="df8de" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3dc2268def162d7cf2a7434e70081ed4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Rob Ferrell, Courtesy Goucher
<p>Elizabeth Lowe Ahearn, dance professor and founding director of the Pilates Center at Goucher College, will teach <a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=GoucherMay28" target="_blank">a Classical Pilates mat class</a> designed to improve stretch, strength and control. </p><p><a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=GoucherMay28" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p>May 26: Intermediate Contemporary with Melissa Rector
<a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=KoreshDanceCompanyMay26" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzE3OTUyMy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMTg5MTE0Nn0.7YlSy10kk3tm9io6EmE_66jSJI3xa0uXChuNOkUxndE/img.jpg?width=980" id="e6013" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c759db23fbb8fd35812dbae5b241cb89" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Sammi Pfieffer, Courtesy Koresh
<p>Join Melissa Rector, assistant artistic director of Koresh Dance Company, for <a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=KoreshDanceCompanyMay26" target="_blank">an intermediate contemporary class </a>focused on groundedness, breath, body percussion, stylized gesture and quick transitions. </p><p><a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=KoreshDanceCompanyMay26" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p><div class="htl-ad"
data-unit="dance_teacher/dt_desktop_medrec"
data-sizes="0x0:|1024x0:300x250"
data-prebid="0x0:|1024x0:dt_desktop_medrec"
data-refresh="viewable"
data-refresh-secs="45"
></div>
May 21: Ballet with Philip Neal
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzI4NzY5My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMDA1NzU5M30.NMwAfr3pd8JSJhLDm9GSPshR0KWv3izcIdhqKZJKOo4/img.jpg?width=980" id="939dd" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="646e4c23a50b5343862604594902841f" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /> <p>Join Philip Neal, artistic director of Next Generation Ballet, for a <a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=BalletMay21" target="_blank">ballet class focused on barre work</a>. The former New York City Ballet dancer will focus on lightness and speed.</p><p><a href="https://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=BalletMay21" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p>May 19: Jazz and Q&A with Courtney Ortiz
<a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=ImpactDanceMay19" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzE3NjAwMy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMjQwNjM4NX0.BgTydQUHXjEmNwfaKBaCSSvTHfML_lngda6JLIw5tqU/img.jpg?width=980" id="35a56" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="61abcf4394862ccec12d96a78a534ad0" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Corey Rives, Courtesy Revel Dance Convention
<p>Courtney Ortiz, owner of Impact Dance Adjudicators and a professional dancer, teacher and competition judge, will teach <a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=ImpactDanceMay19" target="_blank">a jazz class designed for small spaces</a> geared towards intermediate/advanced dancers and teachers. The class will be followed by a Q&A session with Ortiz, where participants can ask her advice on a professional dance career. </p><p><a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=ImpactDanceMay19" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p>May 14: The Dancer's Workout
<a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=TDWMay14" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzE2OTU1OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwOTQxOTkxN30.ZQLJ9iEMa29087aqCEowJQw8pzJB3vAyaR5V9zB8E8g/img.jpg?width=980" id="9b0a7" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="261926d19779b151a4cfb4cc8b07345d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Kathy Howard Portrait, Courtesy The Dancer's Workout
<p>Join Jules Szabo, founder of The Dancer's Workout, for <a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=TDWMay14" target="_blank">a dance fitness class targeted to dancers</a> and incorporating ballet, jazz and contemporary dance.</p><p><a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=TDWMay14" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p><div class="htl-ad"
data-unit="dance_teacher/dt_desktop_medrec"
data-sizes="0x0:|1024x0:300x250"
data-prebid="0x0:|1024x0:dt_desktop_medrec"
data-refresh="viewable"
data-refresh-secs="45"
></div>
May 12: Cardio with Jaclyn Baker
<a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=IFBBMay12" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzE2MjQwMi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyODk2NDcyN30.mdvY8vIKeOivwzvrzNcsCVt4UXvUX54G50cje41cqz8/img.jpg?width=980" id="f7652" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3e828444d9f782d38b25b500a5c3fac3" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Courtesy Baker
<p>Professional dancer-turned-bodybuilder and International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness Olympian Jaclyn Baker will lead <a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=IFBBMay12" target="_blank">a 30-minute cardio sweat session</a>, focused on increasing stamina. Suitable for all fitness levels and ages. </p><p><a href="http://listings.dancemagazine.com/vds/?class=IFBBMay12" target="_blank">Sign up here.</a></p>May 7: Improving Grand Allegro with Hiroto Saito
<a href="http://" ><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzE2ODk4Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwODU4MTcwM30.V1S8KyXkeiIz7b6BZvpMXtlKnw_VtQ14kr5wESJ7U2M/img.jpg?width=980" id="77cfe" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="bcdccf6b177353666e1b3a1c53b74547" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /></a>Courtesy Canada's Ballet Jörgen
<p>Join Ballet Jörgen ballet master Hiroto Saito for a ballet barre designed to support your jumps—including a special strength-training session to help you build jumping power when you're not able to jump at home.</p>
Keep reading...
Show less
Courtesy Dance Teacher Web
While summer usually sparks dreams of warm vacations in the sun, many dance teachers don't have the luxury of taking a week off to lounge by the pool. But what if a stellar educational opportunity for dance instructors just happened to take place in sunny Las Vegas?
The Dance Teacher Web Conference and Expo, happening August 4–7 and founded and directed by longtime successful studio owners and master teachers Steve Sirico and Angela D'Valda Sirico, gives dance teachers and administrators a chance to learn, network and recharge during a one-of-a-kind working vacation. Here, attendees can rub shoulders with esteemed industry professionals, get inspired by a variety of workshops and even walk away with a new certification or two:
<span style="display:block;position:relative;padding-top:56.25%;" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="eb75c31d3f5235a73bc0f5cd298913cf"><iframe lazy-loadable="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/26Cmwym2IqY?rel=0" width="100%" height="auto" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;"></iframe></span>
1. Learn from the best.
<p>Each year, <a href="https://www.danceteachersummerexpo.com/" target="_blank">Dance Teacher Web</a> brings in all-star faculty to teach master classes, lead seminars and give you the insight you need to take your studio to the next level. This year's star-studded lineup includes Mihran Kirakosian, best known for his collaborations with Britney Spears, Madonna and Ricky Martin; Tre Holloway, who's worked with Gwen Stefani and John Legend; tap dancer Jason Marquette; and a slew of other industry leaders.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMjgzNDY4My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NzUzMDI0MH0.g0ki7UWKQCdnLZgmkYY-Jh15FQR1EU41qEXFokB3gPY/img.jpg?width=980" id="dfe6a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="22468d992377130df696e7b0235c4460" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
Courtesy Dance Teacher Web
2. Stay up-to-date on industry trends.
<p>Want to learn new ways to promote your studio? Thinking about starting a podcast? Attendees can pick from an assortment of seminars about marketing, management and social media trends. This year's conference includes a new seminar led by Kirakosian about growing your YouTube and Instagram followings.</p><p>Studio owners can get even more targeted information with a pre-conference seminar called Dance Studio Confidential, with tips on building better communication, problem-solving in the studio and utilizing new technology.</p>3. Increase your revenue.
<p>Beyond insightful workshops, teachers and studio owners will walk away with new curriculum and strategies to generate revenue. Judy Murray, co-owner of Catherine's Dance Studio in Kansas City, Missouri, has been attending the conference for the last seven years and has each year watched her studio grow as a result. Last year, Murray and her team purchased an acro dance program at the conference in the hopes of creating a new source of revenue. The result? So many students enrolled in the new class that she had to start a waiting list.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMjgzNDY4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1Njc4NzU5OX0.Z0oYlrgmTdMqFk9ogvnuf2EL2XWbV6HHN9QGsL4jlyE/img.jpg?width=980" id="44592" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ec99b050055b400b6d50d820760d82fd" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
Courtesy Dance Teacher Web
4. Bond with your team.
<p>On top of all the new skills that studio owners and instructors walk away with, many find that their studio leaves the experience as a more unified group. After Murray's dance teachers returned from the conference, she couldn't help but notice their newfound cohesiveness. "They came back as a team," she says. </p>5. Earn a new certification.
<p> One of the most unique aspects of <a href="https://www.danceteachersummerexpo.com/" target="_blank">Dance Teacher Web</a> is that attendees can earn a certification in everything from preschool acrobatic arts to an adult ballet curriculum in just four days. These courses are scheduled for the mornings so instructors can still attend afternoon seminars and classes.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMjgzNDY4Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNTc5Nzc3Nn0.SBTAOCl2GgXElgjBnRFjQskbx432qcNRyAAIBi7134c/img.jpg?width=980" id="52568" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="7bdf03cd502a0ebe668359a38d0be833" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
Courtesy Dance Teacher Web
6. Network with dance leaders from all over the world.
<p>With so many dance instructors and icons under one roof, you're bound to make valuable connections. Nina Scattaregia, a teacher at Dance Factory in Buckhannon, West Virginia, has been attending the <a href="https://www.danceteachersummerexpo.com/" target="_blank">Dance Teacher Web Conference</a> since 2009, and she considers the relationships she's made there to be one of the most valuable benefits. "I brought Jason Marquette in to do some cool things at my studio as a result of meeting him way out in Vegas," she says.</p>7. Win free stuff!
<p>This year's expo hall will boast 67 exhibitors, from flooring companies to dancewear brands. Attendees can stop in to shop software programs, costumes, shoes and more, but it's the final day that leaves people feeling like they won the lottery. During the expo's grand finale, exhibitors give away more than $10,000 in prizes, from trips to Australia to recital costumes.</p>8. Do it all for a reasonable price.
<p> Since the <a href="https://www.danceteachersummerexpo.com/" target="_blank">Dance Teacher Web Conference</a> is created with the financially-savvy studio owner in mind, they're all about giving you more bang for your buck. Attendees get an exclusive rate of $84 a night at Planet Hollywood for the conference, and can enjoy special discounts on the conference itself if they bring a group. </p><p><a href="https://www.danceteachersummerexpo.com/" target="_blank"><em>Visit danceteachersummerexpo.com to register now.</em></a></p>
Keep reading...
Show less
Photo by Jenny Studios, courtesy of Utah Dance Artists
Running a dance school used to involve a seemingly endless stream of paperwork. But thanks to the advent of software tailored specifically for dance studios' needs, those hours formerly spent pushing papers can now be put to better use.
"Nobody opens a dance studio because they want to do administrative work," says Brett Stuckey, who leads Akada Software's support team. "It's our job to get you out of the office and back into your classroom."
We talked to Stuckey about how a studio software program can streamline operations, so you can put your energy toward your students.
Save Time
<p>Want to turn a multihour task into one that takes mere minutes? Software can be your key. Imagine being able to charge every parent's credit card with the push of a single button. Or putting together your class schedule or recital lineup with a system designed to ensure that no student has conflicting sessions or back-to-back routines.</p><p>One of Stuckey's favorite time-saving <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a> features tackles costume ordering. With all of your students already in the system, all you have to do is plug in measurements and assign a costume to each class. "The system will assign sizes," he says. "You can print out purchase orders. You can see who's paid and who hasn't. There's even a place for parents to check off when they receive each costume."</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMjY2MDEwMS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMzMzNzU1M30.Rfuiv6L2659i09aRyKxNcRzwyVeI8Be7MjiOm0tIt9c/img.jpg?width=980" id="eeb6d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4ba26f23c2d0da8a23f1ab0d90b12d43" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A dance teacher leads a group of young girls in an exercise, they have their hands on their hips and look at themselves in the mirror." />
Photo by Jenny Studios, courtesy of Utah Dance Artists
Improve Communication
<p>Sending home paper handouts may be tradition, but there are more effective ways to get the word out. Studio software will give you the ability to email and/or text your customers (who will be able to opt in and out). While you could write to the whole school community at once, <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a> also allows you to create groups for classes, teams or companies, so you're providing information only to those who need it.</p><p>"I send e-mails with specific updates," says Jill Athridge, owner of Stage Door Studios in Sarasota, Florida, who uses <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a>. "Like, your class will be trying on costumes on Monday, so please arrive a couple minutes early. Or, don't forget, the studio will be closed for this holiday." She often follows up with a text message. "As a parent, it's easy to get overwhelmed," she says. "Those gentle reminders can help."</p>Boost Your Bottom Line
<p>If you're tired of chasing down tuition payments, automating the process is a must. With <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a>, you can keep card numbers on file to charge on the same day each month, or send reminders for parents to log in and authorize payments themselves. Either way, you'll be more likely to receive what you're owed, on time and in full, if you make paying hassle-free.</p><p>Another potentially helpful tool: If your studio charges fees beyond monthly tuition, <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a> has a setting that requires payment to go toward the oldest thing that's due. "So, if someone owes two months of tuition, but they want to book a private lesson, they have to pay their tuition before they can schedule the private," Athridge explains. "That's huge."</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMjY2MDA5MC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MzkxMjA5Nn0.AOSCO8JpD_SvCEHpHXzVuj_1DWn4h9CxOODSyoUz_04/img.jpg?width=980" id="5cfb2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="891dcba3bb07035f9efa4bc38e752bf7" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A young dance teacher, kneels on the ground next to a few young students, and talks to them, gesturing with her hands." />
Photo by Jenny Studios, courtesy of Utah Dance Artists
Stay in the Loop
<p>The right software can ensure that everyone who needs to know is in the know. "My favorite <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a> feature is that there's a place to compile notes regarding individual accounts," says Jennifer Browning, studio manager at Utah Dance Artists, which has two locations in South Jordan and Draper. "The ladies at our front desks can write down in the system when someone calls in about a sick child, a late payment, any issue like that. I can view the notes from both studios, all in one spot."</p><p>You'll also be able to customize who uses the system, and how. Maybe you prefer for one administrator to handle taking roll and sending out notifications. Or perhaps you want your teachers to each create accounts and control their own classes. <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a> already has a teacher portal on its web platform and will soon launch a teacher app for taking attendance. (An <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a> app for parents is also coming soon.) In short, whatever level of oversight you need, the right software system can help you achieve it.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMjY2MDA4My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MjA2NDcyNX0.otgNAu5w7zLCt0ObM9HGkjqoH4Z3qBCbveSJWJfFtnY/img.jpg?width=980" id="9a076" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dcabebdd07d7243fdd39aa4f5c1f3b47" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="A woman in a pink Akada shirt sits at a computer, talking on the phone." />
Photo courtesy of Akada Software
Get Help
<p>The biggest key to software success? Don't be afraid to ask for help. <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a> offers overview sessions for new customers. "We'll listen to you describe what your studio does, and we'll tell you how to best make that work within our software," Stuckey says. If you have questions down the line, <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/" target="_blank">Akada</a> takes pride in always having someone available to answer the phone and offers webinars on subjects like planning for fall enrollment and ordering recital costumes. Customers are always welcome to write in with suggestions for software updates. Plus, as a way of giving back, <a href="https://www.akadasoftware.com/scholarship/" target="_blank">Akada runs a scholarship program</a> that is now in its third year; applications for the $1,000 awards will open in May.</p><p>Stuckey points out that March is an ideal time to discuss changes that will affect your students in the fall. So, if you've been on the fence about leaving your printouts and binders behind, there's no time like the present to bring software into your studio. With a streamlined system in place behind the scenes, your creativity will be able to take center stage.</p>
Keep reading...
Show less
