summer programs

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  1. Dealing with Summer Programs Audition Disappointment

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    Not being accepted into a ballet school’s program may feel like a slap in the face for aspiring dance students. Because summer intensive programs can be highly selective and offer limited enrollment, young dancers can become discouraged and lose confidence in themselves when they are turned down from a particular program.

    Though it is frustrating, there are a few important things that can be learned while dealing with rejection. In the end, a rejection can actually motivate you to improve and keep growing, which will lead to future success!

    Remember that dance is subjective; not everyone’s opinion is the same. One director may love what you have to offer, while another is not interested in your dancing. Finding the right program for you may take time, but discovering a good fit is extremely important in ballet. Learning this will help you not only as a student, but in a professional career as well…and ultimately as a person.

    You may not do well with one school, yet be a favorite at another. Rejection from one program does not mean another program won’t happily accept you.

    I specifically remember going to two nationally recognized summer program auditions when I was 12 years old. The auditions were on the same day, in the same studio with one immediately following the other. I did the auditions back to back and felt I had performed equally in both. I was not accepted into one of the programs, while the other program not only accepted me, but also awarded me a scholarship.

    Do not let rejection get you down or cause you to give up. Most professional ballet dancers who are enjoying successful careers in big companies can give examples of rejections they received early on. Use it as an opportunity to recognize that a school is not the right fit for you at this time.

    An audition is a great opportunity to view dancers from other studios and see where you stand. It can give you a realistic idea of how your dancing compares to other dancers in your area. Take note of what your strength and weaknesses are, and use it as positive motivation.

    It is also an opportunity to meet and befriend other students. And it is always beneficial to take a guest teacher’s class – every instructor has something valuable to offer.

    One of the frustrations of summer program auditions is that they frequently don’t provide you with feedback. Most large schools will send you a letter with a yes or no reply, but if the answer is no, there is not an explanation of why.

    Audition for a variety of schools. Nationally recognized schools (like American Ballet Theatre’s JKO School and School of American Ballet) are highly selective so you may want to start by auditioning for smaller schools that are still highly regarded. Check school websites for specific information on audition requirements and the specifics of the summer program.

    Remember:

    • An audition is an opportunity to learn – try to focus on the positive.
    • Being told “no” is inevitable and can be a growing experience.
    • Different schools look for different things in students; if you are not successful with one school try auditioning for another type of school.
    • Don’t be afraid to re-audition the following year. Small changes can bring about great results!

    Try to remember that an audition is an opportunity to learn something about yourself and grow as a dancer. Every student deals with feelings of rejection; do not let it get you down.

    Hard work and discipline pay off; with dedication and the right attitude you will persevere. If you enjoy the experience and stay positive, then great opportunities await!

  2. Summer Program Audition Tips

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    summer program audition studentsFor enterprising ballet students, the beginning of the new year is a particularly exciting and nerve-wracking time.  January is the start of audition season and serious ballet students set their sights on getting accepted into a prestigious summer dance program.

    Summer intensives provide the opportunity for students to improve significantly in a short period of time; they are also a great place to meet new friends, work with different teachers and get a taste of what it’s like to dance for several hours every day.

    Most summer programs require an audition (video auditons may be accepted, though schools typically prefer to see dancers in person) and schools can be very selective in whom they accept, so there are a few important points to remember when attending an audition:

    • Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the audition in order to register and warm-up.
    • Dress your best!
    • Keep focused during the audition and concentrate on learning the exercises quickly. Schools look for students who are eager to learn and pay attention to detail.
    • Smile! If you enjoy yourself it will be noticed. Auditioners want to fill their programs with dancers who love what they do and bring positive energy into the studio.
    • Most schools ask dancers to bring a current photo with them.  Have a teacher, parent or friend assist you in the studio with a photo shoot; many schools ask for a shot of the dancer in first arabesque or tendu à la seconde.

    summer program audition tip arrive early so you can stretch On the day of the audition make sure your hair is neatly pulled back – auditioners are looking for attention to detail and pride in your work, so looking clean and professional is always a good idea.

    Most auditions do not set a specific dress code, but it is expected that ladies will wear pink tights, pink ballet slippers and a leotard and gentlemen will dress in a white shirt and black tights with black or white shoes.  Most auditions include some pointe work, as well.

    Wear a leotard that you feel is flattering and shows off your line; colored leotards are fine, but avoid patterns, neon hues and unitards. Ballet skirts are not a good choice in school auditions as auditioners are looking to see your lines clearly, and wearing “junk” (plastic shorts, sweat pants, etc.) is a definite no.

    Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the audition in order to register and warm-up.

    Finally, try not to be distracted by the other dancers in the room or compare your technique to those around you. Instead, spend your energy on listening and learning quickly. Auditioners are looking for students who are teachable and want to learn!

    Frequently the dancer who shows real interest and seems hungry to learn will get a spot over a dancer with beautiful extension and feet who cannot pick up details in an audition.  Natural talent and facility will only get you so far; dancers who work hard and apply themselves with good energy make the best students!

    Remember that auditions are a great learning experience and that you can gain something valuable from them no matter what the outcome is.  Have fun and enjoy the dancing!