It’s back to the studio time! While you’re getting warmed up for an all new season, convention and intensive season is underway. These weekends filled with dance classes, auditions, and real-time feedback from professional dancers and choreographers are the perfect place to amp up your technique in your favorite style or dip your toes into something new. Whether you’re taking on ballroom, tap, jazz, or even hip hop (or every genre offered!), you want to arrive prepared.
It can be intimidating to pack for a whole weekend of dance away from home. These are some things every dance needs in their dance bag on the go to make sure you shine no matter what style of dance you’re learning.
A Dance Bag
The first step to packing is having the right bag. Bring a bag that is big enough to hold everything you will need throughout a long day of dancing. The best dance bags are ones with lots of pockets so you can stay organized and everything will have its own place.
Lots of Dance Clothes
Alright, let’s get down to dancewear. Pack a few more outfits than you think you will need, and shoes for every genre you might take. You never know when you might decide to attend a last-minute audition or try a new class. Bonus points if you bring something that will make you stand out, especially for those auditions.
Water and Snacks
You need to keep your energy up through the weekend and between classes so you can keep performing. Pack protein bars, dried, fruit, fruit cups, and other quick and energizing snacks for time in-between classes. You could also pack a few easy lunches like PB&J sandwiches or cheese and crackers with fruit so you don’t have to run out and find food during your lunch break.
Notebook and Pen
Conventions and intensives are all about learning, and the moves aren’t the only valuable things you might take away. Sometimes choreographers will give advice you want to tuck away for later, or maybe you just want to remember those technical tips you got from your favorite mentor. It’s always good to have a place to write it all down.
Headphones
Performing at conventions can be stressful, so it can help to just put some headphones in, turn on your favorite playlist, and zone out for a bit. This is also great if you need some time to yourself between classes.
A Muscle Rollers
A packed weekend of dance is fun, but it’s also a lot of work. Take good care of your muscles by having a muscle roller to keep you from getting stiff. A foam roller, a massage gun, or even a tennis ball is the perfect dance-bag-sized companion for taking care of post-class soreness.
Along with all the essentials, don’t forget to bring your smile! Conventions and intensives are all about having fun. These are weekends where you can make friends, learn new skills, find your mentors, and become a more well-rounded dancer. Make the most of it!
