DANCER TIP: @the gig

When you go to an event, contest (especially) venue, show and you are dancing.. Go early..! Watch some of the other dancers. You aren't watching to change your plan, not watching to learn their "stuff".. What you are looking at is...

The lights.. Where are the shadows, the hot spots. Where are the pretty places..!

The floor.. Carpet? Tape lines? Uneven areas..? Worse.. Wiggle?! Did they trip, slip.. Show that there may be an adjustment you need to make.

Entry /Exit : How are you starting.. And more importantly finishing.! I have watched some great dancing only to have my lasting memory being the dancer wondering and looking for the exit.

Environment : is there a breeze? Fan? Air vent..? Dancer fights with veil.. Props in decor..? Plants grab veils and skirts when you get to close. Overhead.. Lights? Anything that is above can be a hazard if you are doing prop work.. Cane..comes to mind.. A video of a troupe and one dancers cane gets caught in the chandelier!

I have learned a lot through my years and these things, being aware of them have saved me greatly.

Supporting other life events. It is important that you attend other events.. Why..? NETWORKING! I pick up gigs for outside events by being involved. Consider it 'cross training' for your professional business plan.