Behind the Stage: Theatre Etiquette in Preparation for our Show!

We are so excited for our show, which is now only a few weeks away! We hope that our students are enjoying the final stages of preparation, putting the finishing touches to choreography, and trying on their costumes. To help them get the most out of their time in the theatre on show day, we have put together a guide for theatre etiquette.

Putting on a show involves more than just perfecting choreography. Theatre etiquette is a vital part for the quality of the performance, but also for the overall experience for everyone involved.

Backstage:

For our young dancers, creating a backstage atmosphere that is respectful and supportive is crucial. We are working all together as a team to keep quiet, cheer on our friends, and help everyone out, especially supporting those who may be nervous or anxious about performing. Staying disciplined and concentrated during rehearsals, coordinating with our backstage team, or ensuring props and costumes are managed correctly, adds to the creation of a fantastic show. Backstage etiquette underpins a successful production.

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Dressing Room:

A supportive atmosphere in the dressing room or warm-up studio is crucial to create a space where the dancers can transform into shining performers. It's necessary to politely share the space, respect other's boundaries with costumes and keep things tidy! We want to make backstage inclusive, encourage each other, and celebrate everyone. If there are quick costume changes, everyone needs to be aware of this so that the dancers involved can efficiently get ready quickly to go back on stage on time. Dressing rooms aren't just any old spaces: they are where friendships bloom, creativity thrives, and every performer shines.

Respect For Staff and Crew:

Backstage is full of unsung heroes! Respecting the whole team behind-the-scenes will help to create a joyful collaboration. From lighting technicians, the hair and make-up team, to music staff, everyone is working together to put on a wonderful show. We want to encourage our young dancers to say thank you and appreciate the behind-the-scenes magic. Open communication, understanding of each other's roles, and celebrating victories together creates a family that goes beyond job titles. In the spotlight or behind the curtains, it's the collective efforts that truly make the magic happen. This attitude towards the job roles out of the limelight will spill out into life outside the theatre too.

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Handling Feedback:

In all areas of life, feedback isn't just pointers, it's the secret to becoming even better! Think of it as a treasure map towards discovering gems and rewards. Turning every piece of feedback into a growth opportunity will allow the dancers to embrace both the positives and the challenges. Keep communication open, turn feedback into gemstones, and make every performance wonderful!

Gratitude and Acknowledgement:

Gratitude and acknowledgement are an important part of theatre etiquette. By recognising collective efforts, celebrating individual contributions, and encouraging "thank yous" to be said often, the quality of the production is elevated, as well as creating a family where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Expressing gratitude, collaborating together, and speaking about challenges can create a positive and encouraging atmosphere where both students and teachers feel happy, safe and inspired.

Performing on stage in front of an audience is more than just a pathway to becoming a skilled performer. It's a transformative opportunity that can boost confidence and build friendships. At Fireflies Dance, we take pride in knowing that our classes go beyond dance, providing students with invaluable life skills. As we get ready to applaud the growth and achievements of our talented performers, we wholeheartedly embrace every individual's journey of personal growth, confidence building, and the acquisition of skills that will benefit every aspect of life.

Images taken from The Royal Opera House, The Sleeping Beauty.