Start planning the dance recital months in advance of the performance date. This allows for set design, costume ordering and mastering of the choreographed routines. Start with a vision. Decide what the theme of the performance will be and begin to design the set and order costumes while the choreography is being learned by the dancers. Allow process time for the costume order and any adjustments that might need to be made to the costumes or the set.
Find and reserve a venue that will support the capacity expected for the performance. Ensure that sufficient parking is provided in addition to generous support rooms in the back of house. Set storage will be needed as well as rooms for the dancers to change costumes in.
Ask parents and local businesses if they would like to buy add space in the program months prior to the show. This additional revenue can offset costs associated with set design and lighting technicians. Parents can enclose a picture of their child and add a good luck note for the dancer. Include a list of the dances to be performed and the dancers names in each routine. Provide dance studio information in the back of the program for any interested dancers not already involved with the studio.
Schedule additional practice times as necessary a month prior to the show. Dress rehearsal should always occur at least a week before the final show to remove any kinks from the program such as costume malfunctions or obstructions with the set. This also allows the lighting and sound technicians the time needed to finalize their roles and get specific instruction based on the initial vision. The day of the dress rehearsal is the perfect opportunity for a professional photographer to take pictures of the dancers in their full makeup and costumes. Performance day is notoriously hectic and this will allow parents the opportunity to purchase professional photos of their children. These are the same photos that can be used in the program, if the photograph version is selected.
Print a checklist for the dancers including everything they will need the day of the performance. Include arrival times, performance information and general venue information. The more information they are presented, the less likely there is to be an error.