Hello, everyone! Next week, some of our ballet dancers are going to be doing their exam. So we thought that a post like this would be useful.

TRY TO RELAX

The day before the exam, try to do activities to relax. Treat yourself to things that you enjoy and this will make you feel in the right mind set to do your best in the exam.

THINK POSITIVE

You will succeed if you focus on this. The mind has great power in achieving our goals. Have faith in yourself, practice hard and you will be much calmer and more focused during the exam.

BE ON TIME

You will be nervous enough, so don’t add unnecessary stress. Being there on time will make you feel more in control of the situation, and will give you extra time in case something unexpected happens.

NEAT AND CLEAN

Keep your hair neat, using hairspray or gel if necessary, and make sure that your attire is neat and clean. Your appearance must be impeccable, tights free of holes and immaculate ballet slippers or pointe shoes.

DRESS CODE

Ballet examiners don’t like anything underneath your leotard (other than a bra). Simplicity is the key, so just wear what’s essential. Don’t wear any jewellery (small earrings are acceptable) and take off any nail polish.

STRETCH BEFORE THE EXAM

This step is obviously really important. You should stretch for at least 10 minutes before you perform your exam, focusing on your arms and legs. This will prevent injuries and also will make you feel more flexible and confident while you’re demonstrating your technique.

STAND IN FIRST POSITION WHILE WAITING

While you are waiting, stand and walk like a dancer. Believe in yourself and show the examiners that you care about the exam and that you are taking your dancing seriously.

BEHAVE ACCORDINGLY

From the moment you walk through the door, they are examining you. Say “Good morning/afternoon” and you will show them respect and good manners.

LET YOUR EXPRESSION COME OUT IN YOUR DANCE

Don’t be afraid to show it. From the moment you hear the music, feel it inside. Take advantage of those feelings and make your dance more than simple movements. The examiners will see it if you are enjoying the moment.

BE CONFIDENT

Do not stare at the examiner, but look at them sometimes.

Stand up straight and keep your eyes up. Try not to look at the other dancers, this will only make you feel nervous. Believe in yourself.

HAVE FUN, SMILE AND ENJOY THE PERFORMANCE

No matter how nervous you are, you love dancing. You enjoy this, so have fun and try to do your best. Feel the music, feel your movements and show the examiners that you deserve to pass the exam. Good vibes are really important, and when you love what you do, others can feel it too.

BE POLITE AND SAY THANK YOU AT THE END

We can’t emphasise enough the importance of being polite. Keep a positive attitude but don’t be arrogant. Always thank the teacher, examiners and pianist, showing them your respect. This is also a really important part of being a dancer.

We hope you enjoy these little tips and that this post will help you to achieve your dance goals.

We wish all the best to our dancers in their exam, even if they don’t need it, you have all worked so hard.

See you next week!

The Village School of Dance Team