Recital Season: How to Navigate Your Child’s First Big Performance with Ease
June is just around the corner, which means one thing for dance families: Recital season is here! If this is your child’s first recital, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness (maybe even more than your little dancer).
A recital is a big milestone. While it’s a chance for your child to take a big leap on stage, it can also bring new experiences, emotions, and, let’s be honest, a little bit of chaos. But don’t worry - With the right support, mindset and a little preparation, you and your dancer can glide through recital season smoothly.
Here’s what to expect and how to make it a positive experience for everyone involved.
The Recital Build-Up: What to Expect
By now, your child has been rehearsing their routine for weeks, maybe even months. As recital day approaches, rehearsals may feel more intense, and the excitement (or jitters) may start to build.
Here’s what you can expect from recital season at Aura Dance Studio:
Dress Rehearsals: There will be an additional practice scheduled leading up to the recital. These help dancers feel confident and comfortable on stage.
Recital Photo Day - Friday, May 30th (Mark your calendars!)
Costume Fittings & Alterations: Your child’s costume will arrive, and we will have them fitted and altered if needed, please ensure dancers attend classes so we can ensure this happens in a timely manner!
Recital Day Logistics: Expect a schedule filled with dress rehearsals, check-in times, and performance slots. Make sure to read all communications carefully as this will be emailed out to you well in advance. Keep your eyes on your inbox.
All the Emotions: Your child may experience excitement, nervousness, or even a little stage fright. All of it is completely normal!
Preparing Your Child for the Big Day
The best way to ensure a smooth recital experience is to prepare your dancer both physically and emotionally. Here’s how you can help:
1. Normalize the Nerves
It’s common for kids to feel a little nervous before stepping onto a big stage - It’s a whole new territory for this! Let them know that even professional dancers feel this way. Share an experience you’ve been through while stepping on stage, or doing something new/scary, even if it wasn’t for dance. Encourage them to channel those nerves into excitement - Remind them that their hard work will pay off, and the audience is there to cheer them on.
2. Keep the Routine Consistent
Leading up to recital week, stick to normal routines as much as possible like a regular bedtime, balanced meals, and downtime to avoid burnout. The consistency will help them feel more grounded and ready to perform. Watch for any changes in behaviour and help them through any shifts in their routine.
3. Practice in a Fun, Low-Pressure Way
Encourage your child to practice at home - but keep it light! Play their recital song while they dance around the living room, or have them perform for a stuffed animal audience. This helps build confidence without the pressure of a structured rehearsal.
4. Pack a Recital Day Survival Kit
Recital day can be long, so having a well-packed dance bag will make a big difference. Essentials include:
Costume & Accessories (with backups if possible)
Dance Shoes (double-check you have the right ones! Watch for fraying laces or any touch ups needed)
Snacks & Water (non-messy, easy-to-eat protein-rich foods that fuel them)
Hair & Makeup Supplies (as required by the studio)
Comfy Clothes (for before and after the performance so they don’t soil their costumes)
Entertainment (books, coloring, or quiet activities for downtime)
5. Set Realistic Expectations
First-time recitals are a learning experience. Your child may forget a step, miss a cue, or not perform exactly as they do in rehearsals. And that’s okay! The goal is for them to have fun and feel proud of their efforts. Let them know that their hard work matters more than perfection.
Recital Day: Keeping It Stress-Free
When the big day arrives, your main job is to be a calm, supportive presence. Here’s how to keep things smooth:
Arrive on Time – Give yourself plenty of time to park, check in, and get settled, so there is no extra angsty energy (for both of you!).
Stay Positive – If your child senses stress from you, they’ll feel it too. Keep the energy light and encouraging. Deep breaths!
Snap Photos Before & After – Once they’re in costume and ready to go, take pictures before the show starts so they can enjoy the moment afterward.
Cheer Loudly & Proudly – Whether your child nails their routine or just gets through with a big smile, celebrate them!
After the Curtain Closes
Once the recital is over, your child will likely be on an adrenaline high, or feeling some kind of way depending on how their performance went. Celebrate their accomplishment with a special treat, flowers, a fun dinner, or simply showering them with praise. Acknowledge their hard work, bravery, and commitment rather than just the performance itself.
Final Thoughts
Recital season is a special time in a dancer’s journey. All of these tidbits and recommendations can be applied to competition season as well (stay tuned!). While there may be some chaos along the way, it’s also an incredible opportunity for growth, confidence-building, and making lifelong memories.
So take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and get ready to see your child shine under the stage lights. You’ve got this, and so do they!
Excited about recital season? Join us at Aura Dance Studio’s First Recital for an unforgettable experience and performance - June 5th, at the FirstOntario Arts Centre in Milton! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.