Preparing Dancers for a Stress-Free Competition Weekend: Essential Tips for Directors

Competition weekends can be some of the most exciting yet challenging times for dance directors. Managing a group of dancers, coordinating logistics, and ensuring everyone stays calm and focused requires careful planning. When things run smoothly, dancers perform their best and enjoy the experience. When they don’t, stress can take over, affecting performance and morale. This guide offers practical advice to help directors prepare their dancers for a competition weekend that feels organized, calm, and successful.

Dance rehearsal

Plan Every Detail in Advance

A well-prepared plan is the foundation of a stress-free weekend. Directors should create a detailed schedule that covers every aspect of the competition day, including:

• Arrival times and transportation details

• Warm-up and rehearsal slots

• Costume changes and makeup breaks

• Meal and hydration times

• Performance order and stage times

• Post-performance cool down and feedback sessions

  
  

Share this schedule with dancers, parents, and assistants well before the event. Use clear, simple language and consider printing copies or sending digital versions via email or messaging apps. This transparency helps everyone know what to expect and reduces last-minute confusion.

Communicate Clearly and Often

Clear communication is key to keeping dancers calm and focused. Before the weekend, hold a meeting or rehearsal to review the schedule and expectations. Encourage dancers to ask questions and express any concerns. During the competition, use group chats or messaging apps to send reminders and updates.

Directors should also communicate with parents and chaperones, providing them with contact information and emergency plans. This ensures everyone feels connected and informed, which lowers anxiety.

Prepare Dancers Physically and Mentally

Physical readiness goes beyond just practicing choreography. Directors should encourage dancers to:

• Get plenty of rest in the days leading up to the competition

• Eat balanced meals and stay hydrated

• Pack all necessary items the night before, including costumes, shoes, makeup, and snacks

  
  

Mental preparation is equally important. Teach dancers simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization to manage nerves. Remind them that mistakes happen and that the goal is to enjoy the experience and do their best.

Organize Costumes and Props Efficiently

Costume and prop management can become a major source of stress if not handled carefully. Assign a dedicated team member or parent to oversee costumes and props. This person can:

• Check that all costumes are clean, complete, and labeled

• Pack costumes in order of performance

• Prepare a repair kit with safety pins, double-sided tape, and sewing supplies

• Organize props in a separate, clearly marked bag

  
  

Having a system in place prevents last-minute scrambling and lost items.

Organized dance costumes hanging on a rack with labels

Create a Calm and Supportive Environment

Competition weekends can feel overwhelming, especially for younger dancers. Directors should foster a positive atmosphere by:

• Encouraging teamwork and support among dancers

• Avoiding negative talk or pressure about scores and rankings

• Offering praise for effort and progress, not just results

• Providing quiet spaces for rest and reflection between performances

  
  

When dancers feel supported, they are more likely to stay relaxed and confident.

Manage Time Wisely on Competition Day

Time management is crucial to avoid rushing and stress. Directors should:

• Arrive early to allow time for check-in and warm-up

• Stick to the planned schedule as closely as possible

• Build in buffer time for unexpected delays

• Keep dancers engaged with light activities or stretching while waiting

  
  

A calm pace helps dancers stay focused and prevents last-minute chaos.

Prepare for the Unexpected

No matter how well you plan, unexpected issues can arise. Directors should have backup plans for common problems such as:

• Costume malfunctions

• Lost or forgotten items

• Transportation delays

• Changes in performance order

  
  

Having a calm, problem-solving mindset and a small emergency kit can make all the difference.

Dance director reviewing checklist backstage with dancers

Encourage Reflection and Celebration

After the competition, take time to reflect with your dancers. Discuss what went well and what could improve for next time. Celebrate their hard work and achievements, regardless of awards. This helps build resilience and motivation for future events.