How often do we do shows at Jazzy J’s?
At Jazzy J’s Dance Academy we put on a show every two years. All children attending our lessons are invited to take part and it’s a really fun occasion.
When is the next show at Jazzy J’s?
Jazzy J’s is proud to present ‘Alice in London Land’ coming to the Riley Smith Hall 10-12th May 2019! It might seem a long time away but we are already excited.
When and how do the children learn the show routines?
The children learn their show dances in their normal dance lessons and this takes about 10 weeks. We have costumes which are paid for by parents so we try to keep the cost down as much as possible. Our shows usually have a theme and a story and as we get closer to the show date we run the show with everyone in the dance school so it can start to come together.
2017 show: We will start rehearsals properly after February half term. There will be no watching week at Easter so we don’t spoil the surprise!!
What happens during show week?
During the show week all classes have a 10 minute rehearsal in costume on stage to get used to being on the stage and spacing – this really helps the children in terms of spatial awareness and knowing what to expect on the show weekend so they are not overwhelmed when we add the lighting and scenery! We then have a dress rehearsal where we run the show but we can stop at any point to sort any unexpected things out if needed. This then fully prepares children for the actual performance so they have a good idea of what to expect – which increases confidence, enjoyment and excitement!!
What happens during the show? (Younger children)
Children in baby ballet and tappy tots need to have a parent/carer with them whilst they are backstage. We try and put the younger children in the first half of the show so there is not to much waiting around. These children can then watch the rest of the show from the balcony and may go on stage for the finale of the show if they want to!
What happens during the show? (Older children)
All children from pre primary and up are split into groups and have a chaperone and a shared dressing room. Parents sign their children in (and out) and then the chaperone takes their certain group of children backstage and looks after them. We try and keep classes together as much as possible so children are with their friends. Our ratio is 1 adult to 8 children so usually each dressing room has 2 adults and 16 children in. If children are in only one half of the show they get to watch the other half from the balcony seats.
Help from parents!
We can not run the shows with out help from parents and carers (chaperones, quick changes, ticket sales to name a few jobs!!) and we are very lucky to have fabulous mums and dads at Jazzy J’s who make all the above possible!!
What do the children gain from the experience?
I can say from experience the children have an absolute blast and watching them on stage is fantastic – life time memories for the whole family! The children gain so much confidence and such a sense of achievement from taking part.