Competition members will be required to attend 3 full studio competitions during the competition season. Dancers will have the option to attend more competitions/conventions; listed under the “optional opportunities” below. Dancers must reserve the entire weekend of competitions and conventions as the schedule details are usually not published until 1-2 weeks ahead of time.

FULL TEAM COMPETITIONS/EVENTS

OPTIONAL COMPETITIONS/CONVENTIONS
Register HERE!

SUNDAY REHEARSALS

September 22
October 13, 20
November 3, 17
December 8, 15
January 12, 26*
February 9, 23*
March 16*, 30*
May 18 (EL/EP 5:00-5:20pm & All Production 5:30-6pm)

*Mandatory Pre-Competition/Performance Rehearsals

Congratulations – you have decided to become a Competitive Dancer! The first step to becoming a successful dancer is making a solid commitment to your classes, rehearsals, and performances. Strong technique is a key ingredient and class is where you develop that technique. Come to each class prepared to learn and without personal distractions. Class time is your chance to focus on yourself, so try to leave your concerns or worries at the studio door. True progress is made when you look at each class, rehearsal, or performance as an opportunity to become better at what you love to do. Dance full-out, stretch a little further, become more aware of your technique, and make the most of every class.

Being a Competitive Dancer is a privilege that dancers and their family must appreciate and respect. Participation in competition is restricted to dancers who are ready to make achieving their personal best a priority. There will be times when classes, rehearsals, or performances will be scheduled when your non-dance friends or family may be headed to the mall or the movies. However, we encourage dancers to be as dedicated to their academic studies as they are to their dance training. If your participation in competitive dance affects your grades or the expectations and goals set by your parents, we will encourage you to set new priorities for yourself. 

Reasons why competitive dance might not be a good fit for you:
-You’re involved in extracurricular activities that could interfere with your class, rehearsal, or performance commitments.
-You’re doing it because you want to keep up with your friends, but you are not passionate about dance nor the commitment.
-You’re doing it because someone else wants you to and you’re primarily focused on winning awards.
-You’re not fully committed to attending all classes and rehearsals.

We believe that children’s success depends on the support of their parents or guardians. Because your commitment to the process makes an enormous difference, we encourage you to be a part of your child’s dance education. Our studio relies on a positive atmosphere and educational experience for our faculty and students and their parents. Cooperation between all parents is expected. Showing respect—for other parents/families, the students, and the  faculty—makes an important impression on the children. You are a role model for your child about how to interact with others in a professional setting.
Your child’s presence at all classes is imperative. The spirit of teamwork and the lesson of dedication are a big part of our school’s educational process. This goes for competition classes/rehearsals and technique classes. Parent/guardians and teachers may look at a child’s learning from different perspectives. However, we believe they share a common goal: to ensure that every child receives the best possible training, both physically and mentally. Mutual respect among our faculty and our students’ families provides the children with the ultimate care and education.

Stay Connected: https://amandasacademy.com/connect/

In order to ensure all participants are well-prepared for competition and able to represent themselves and AAD in the best way possible, AAD has the following procedure for all students entering a competition Solo/Duet/Trio/Small Group:

1. Review and understand all guidelines in this hand out. Inform AAD of your interest in participating in competition and what kind of competition routine you are interested in. Solo, duet, etc., style and any other preferences.
2. AAD will set you up with an instructor based on schedule and good stylistic match.
3. Must meet and discuss routine ideas, music selections and guidelines with an instructor.
4. Attend private lessons (solos, duets, trios). Each dancer must attend a minimum of 8 private lessons. 8-15 private lessons are recommended based on dancer age, skill level, and preparation necessary.
5. Utilize studio time for personal practice time. 5-6 hours recommended. Free of charge.
6. Dedicate your dance training to AAD, exclusively. Excludes workshops and conventions.
7. Costumes should be chosen and ordered asap to avoid shipping conflicts.

Only a small percentage of the dancers will move on to professional dance careers; therefore, our studio focuses on educating young people to strive for their personal best in anything they want to accomplish. We achieve our goals for our studio by offering young people the chance to:

• gain a sense of balance in life by managing their commitments to both dance and academics;
• participate in a physical activity that enhances understanding of the value of a healthy body;
• develop a sense of confidence when speaking or making a presentation in a public setting, which is also a great benefit in college or job interviews;
• work with mentors who are focused on the students’ success inside and outside of the classroom;
• enjoy friendships that could last a lifetime and a sense of belonging to an extended family of fellow dancers, teachers, and parents;
• discover the results of hard work and determination; and develop a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.

Lastly, making a commitment to the policies set forth in this handbook teaches our young people that there are boundaries that must be respected in order to succeed.

As a parent, you play an important role in supporting your child financially, but your emotional support is of equal—and perhaps even greater—value. Encourage your child to be the best that he or she can be regardless of what others may achieve. Dance is an individual art form and children need to be allowed to achieve at a pace that’s comfortable. No two students will progress at the same rate, even if they experience the exact same training. It’s important to encourage children to focus on themselves, give their all, and be satisfied with their own accomplishments.

Dance education encompasses far more than technique and the steps your children learn. We believe the discipline of dance training gives young people a better understanding of commitment through learning, experiencing the spirit of teamwork, and discovering what they can accomplish through hard work. Our goal is to educate the minds, bodies, and souls of our students, teaching them the skills needed for a successful life, whether or not they stay involved in dance.

Some parents may compare their child’s progress or class placement to another child’s. Watch for this behavior in your children as well and encourage them to focus instead on their own accomplishments. Looking to other students for inspiration is good; however, making negative comparisons distracts children from focusing on becoming stronger dancers. In addition, speaking negatively about your child’s teachers, fellow students, or other parents in front of your child––or other students––could result in problems far beyond your original concerns. Often children will imitate a parent’s behavior with other adults or authority figures. Children learn important lessons from their teachers and parents, acquiring behavior patterns through their example. Our studio’s faculty takes that responsibility seriously. It’s our philosophy to encourage our students to feel, think, and act respectfully toward their peers, the adults in their lives, and themselves. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s dance education (such as progress or class placement), please discuss them with your child’s teacher or the director. Talking only to other parents can lead to misinformation and confusion. Please contact Miss Amanda to set up an appointment; do not approach your child’s teacher or the director between or during classes. If you do request a conference, please listen carefully to what your child’s teachers have to say. They spend a significant amount of time with your child in the studio and offer expertise in the field of dance education.

Take a close, honest look at yourself and your dancing. You’re ready to solo when:

• you have made a serious commitment to yourself and to dance;
• you’re willing to work on your own to spend extra time on your solo;
• you are willing to take your solo apart count by count and make sure you know what needs to happen
  technically (where your arms are on every count, what the best lines are, and so on);
• you are willing to rehearse your solo full-out all the time in order to build stamina;
• you are technically ready;
• you realize that your obligation to your fellow dancers is priority; and
• you are aware that solo rehearsal time will never interfere with group rehearsals, classes, or performances.

The studio faculty meets regularly to discuss the students’ progress and/or placement. It is our policy to offer appropriate opportunities to every child.

Placement decisions are derived from many years of teaching experience. Often a child is placed in a particular group or class where he or she will feel confident, in order to promote the development of self-esteem. Some dancers who are placed in a higher level become discouraged, only to lose their passion for dance. Others respond to the challenge of being in a class with dancers who are more proficient by pushing themselves to work harder.

Placement is highly individual and the factors that go into the decision are complex. The director and/or faculty are available to discuss class and choreography placement with parents and dancers. Please feel free to request an appointment with the office and a meeting will be scheduled. It is our policy to meet with each student and his or her parents at the same time unless otherwise specified.

We ask that parents refrain from discussing class placement issues with other parents or questioning the faculty between classes.

Dancers are not permitted to change or alter choreography in anyway without the consent of the choreographer. Any choreography learned by a student is the sole property of AAD and may not be copied or used for any activity outside of the AAD’s scope. Permission must be granted by AAD for any student to use the choreography at any venue where the member is not with the Studio or acting on behalf of the Studio.

Have you always wanted to compete or be a part of a production number? Well here is your chance! Everyone (ages 5 & up) is welcome, regardless of level or competition experience! Dancers will learn the beginning stages of choreography in August; storyline and production roles during this mandatory workshop.

Dancers participating in our annual production number are ambassadors for Amanda’s Academy of Dance and held in high regard. In addition to completing the competition Summer Prep week, dancers will be expected to commit to our Production rehearsal schedule (above). Production rehearsals will be held on Sundays; mid-afternoon/evening.

Rehearsals will be charged at a rate of $15 per hour, which will be added to the respective account at the beginning of each month.

Dancers will be allowed one excused absence per semester.

As a competition dancer participating production, dancers are required to be enrolled in one ballet technique class, one jazz technique class and at least one another class of choice.

AAD is challenging you to take your competition experience to the next level! AAD’s newest competition groups; Elite Petite and Elite Line will be by instructor invite only. If you are new to AAD or did not receive an invite you can request a personalized evaluation and an elite goals list for your dancer to help them achieve their goal! Elite dancers will compete in both Elite and Production during the competition season.

As an Elite competition dancer, dancers are required to be enrolled in the following weekly technique classes:

Level 1: Ballet, Jazz & Tap (Musical Theatre, Lyrical & Acro are highly recommended)

Level 2-3: Ballet, Jazz & Tap (Musical Theatre, Lyrical & Acro are highly recommended)

Level 4-6: Ballet, Jazz & one other style of choice (Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Modern & Acro are highly recommended)

Dancers participating in our annual production number are ambassadors for Amanda’s Academy of Dance and held in high regard. In addition to completing the competition Summer Prep week, dancers will be expected to commit to our team rehearsal schedule; held on Sundays; mid-afternoon/evening.

Rehearsals will be charged at a rate of $15 per hour, which will be added to the respective account at the beginning of each month. Dancers will be allowed one excused absence per semester.

An introduction to the competition world using age appropriate music and costumes! AAD’s Itty Bittys is a class that will open our dancers to a whole new experience! This is just the start of season long fun!

Rehearsals are held one time per week; Tuesdays 2024-2025. Rehearsals will be charged at a rate of $15 per rehearsal, which will be added to the respective account at the beginning of each month. Dancers will be allowed one excused absence per semester. As a competition dancer participating Itty Bittys, dancers are required to be enrolled in the following weekly technique classes:

Kidance Level Dancers: Kidance & Kidtap (Irish & Acro Recommended)

Level 1: Tap, Jazz and Ballet (Acro and other styles are highly recommended)

There are several classes offered on a regular weekly basis that will also compete during the season. Participation in class does not require participation in competition. If your child does not wish to compete, this must be communicated at the start of the class and can not be reversed.

Class tuition is the same as the weekly class schedule.

Classes are as follows:

Lyrical 2 **
Lyrical 3 *
Lyrical 4 *
Lyrical 5 *
Modern 4-5 *
Hip Hop
Irish 4

Mini Musical Theatre**
Jr. Musical Theatre**
Sr. Musical Theatre*

* Enrollment in Ballet & Jazz required
**Enrollment in Ballet, Jazz & Tap required by level (see above for breakdown)

^ Enrollment by teacher recommendation only

This category is for students who choose to choreograph their own solos. Students must not have received assistance from another student, teacher or choreographer. In addition, it must be an original work and must not be taken or adapted from any other source (i.e., YouTube, etc.) An instructor will be assigned to the dancer for guidance. The dancer must meet with this instructor a minimum of 4 times (at least 4 total hours). Some students may require more instructor led lessons. Some competitions offer special student choreography divisions or awards, but not all do. Student choreography may only be competed if another instructor led solo is also being registered. 

• Students competing at this level will be required to take weekly classes determined by their age, level, and competition genre(s).
• Weekly team rehearsals may be scheduled in the evenings during the week and/or on Sunday afternoons. Placement/level may determine individual rehearsal schedules.
• Mandatory elite classes/workshop during Summer months
• Company Workshop- Choreography camp in August; specific class and rehearsal times per level.

Competition dancers are required to attend all classes and competition rehearsals. Class attendance is vital to the development of a dancer. As a competition dancer, your successfulness as a team member stems from your training. Class is where that training happens.

• Dancers who expect to be absent, late, or leave early are expected to notify their teacher/AAD staff before class begins.
• Students can make-up a missed class in any age-appropriate/level-appropriate class or a lower level class besides their current class.
• Students must participate in class for attendance to be counted. Continued “sitting out” will not be permitted without parent/director approval.
• Students may make up a technique class with a private lesson (by the same teacher of the enrolled class) per the teachers availability. Private lesson charges will apply.
• Four absences are permitted per semester in all weekly technique classes. This is calculated by each individual class, not by day.
• Two absences are permitted per semester in all competition classes, but never the 2 rehearsals before a competition or performance*.
• Any excessive lateness for class or rehearsal may be counted as half an absence at the discretion of the faculty. Communicating with your teacher ahead of time may excuse your tardy from being recorded.
• Graded school events may be considered an excused absence. Please see your instructor for approval prior to the event.
• In order for rehearsals to be as productive as possible, families must notify us of any planned
  absences as far in advance as possible, in writing.
• One “no show” (missing rehearsal without prior notification) is grounds for probation.
• If your student has an injury or non-contagious illness, they should still come to class to observe or attend via zoom.

Failure to abide by the attendance policy will result in a dancer being dismissed from the team or single performance. AAD reserves the right to remove dancers from those upcoming performances or competitions if they are absent within those 7 days. *This does not apply to extended illness, death in the family or injuries. Dancers are expected to attend class even if they have an injury. If a dancer has an injury, in order to perform at the competition, they must be able to practice the week prior to the competition or they will not be allowed to perform at the competition. The policy will be reviewed by AAD faculty upon every situation and will be left at the discretion of the faculty and director.

Respect for the studio, its teachers, and its choreographers is essential. The teachers and choreographers selected to work with our competitive dancers are among the finest and most experienced available. They are selected because of their professionalism and knowledge of what is technically and emotionally right for the dancers.

• Leave any personal negativity at the door when entering the studio.
• Arrive at least 10 minutes before the start of every class or rehearsal.
• Proper dancewear and shoes are a must in every class and rehearsal.
• Choreography must never be questioned.
• Never attempt to contact teachers or choreographers at home. All contact must be made through the studio, unless previously approved.
• Finish every class or choreography session with a thank-you to the teacher or choreographer.
• When wearing your studio jacket or other apparel to non-dance events, be sure that the activities and your behavior reflect positively on you and the studio.

Listen to each correction given, whether it’s directed to you or another dancer. A correction is an honor; it shows you how much a teacher cares about your progress as a dancer. Nothing can stop those students who apply themselves in every class and appreciate their teachers’ knowledge and experience.

The children and parents involved in our competitive dance program participate in many outside activities, all of which reflect the philosophy of Amanda’s Academy of Dance. Please keep the following in mind:

• We never speak negatively about teachers, dancers, or parents from other schools.
• We never create conflict with the directors or judges of events in which we participate.
• The studio director or manager handles all communication with the directors of our outside activities.
• No parent or dancer may call or question the directors of any event. If you have a concern, please contact the director of our studio.
• Dancer and parents should be properly dressed for all events. Do not arrive at or leave any event in your costume; always wear AAD attire.
• Go out there and show the audience how much you love to dance! 

Part of the commitment to the Intensive Dancer program is being current with all accounts related to participation. In an effort to offer all young people the opportunity to experience the Intensive Dancer program, we offer a tuition discount for those wanting to take an infinite number of classes at capped rate.

Full monthly tuition is due by the first class of each month. Tuition can be paid through automatic withdrawal from your bank account. If you prefer a manual monthly payment plan, please stop at the front desk each month to check your balance.

Please note: tuition is based on the full season regardless of how many weeks are in a given month. Tuition payments average out to four classes each month. Tuition includes all scheduled weekly classes. Extra rehearsals may reflect an additional fee.

Dancers who participate in solos/duets/trios will need to attend rehearsals on additional days not included in their normal program schedule. We do our best to work with the dancers and their parents when scheduling extra private and semiprivate lessons.

Depending on the performance venue, length of time allotted, or theme of non-competitive performances, we cannot guarantee that all extra choreography will be presented in public performances. Recital performances will include only the choreography included with the monthly tuition.

Private lessons are arranged through your competition piece instructor during any open studio time. Please know that open studio space is limited and is sometimes booked even when classes are not scheduled. Please refer to the Studio Schedule at the Front Desk before scheduling any private lessons or studio space.

• Private Lessons Cost: $28.00/half hour
• Semi-Private Lessons (2+ dancers): $28/half hour (per dancer)
• Studio Space Cost: Free, unless staff is required to open studio during regularly closed hours.
• A fee will be charged for missed, forgotten or low notice/canceled scheduled rehearsals.

Dancers registered in a competition class or as a solo/duet/trio dancer will automatically be registered for each competition on the schedule. If your dancer has a conflict, you must notify AAD by October 1. Entry fees and charges are non-refundable regardless of conflict as entry fees to the competition are non-refundable. A competition deposit will be added to accounts in November that will include a $60 per routine, per competition and a $80 per solo, per competition. Remaining charges; such as entry fee balances and administrative costs will be applied after the return of each competition. If you prefer a weekly or an annual payment plan, please check with the director/office.

• Solo:  $105-$195
• Duo/Trio: $75-$95 per dancer
• Small/Large Group: $65-$85 per dancer
• Production: $65-$85 per dancer
  *estimates based on previous season rates

Final cost will be determined by the number of dancers attending each competition. Competition (by individual) will include: staff transportation/lodging, competition fees, administrative fees and any other costs contributed to competition.

Dancers who discontinue a competition class or competition number after Oct. 1st are subject to a “reblocking fee” ($100+) to cover the cost of extra rehearsals and instructor prep to make necessary changes to the dance(s). Dancers who request to compete after Oct. 1 will be charged a $100 rushed-choreography fee.

AAD will reserve a block of rooms at a nearby hotel at a discounted rate during most competitions/conventions. Booking lodging at some of the events may be the sole responsibility of the parent, but you will know this information before each competition. You may choose to stay alone with your dancer or with another dance family. If a parent is unable to attend, please contact AAD and we will assist in finding another dance family for your dancer to travel with.

We spend many hours determining the correct costumes for each class and performer. They are always age-appropriate and of the highest quality possible. Students will need one costume for each number they will compete. Costumes include all accessories (hats, jewelry, gloves, tights, etc.), but not shoes, basic hair supplies or make-up. In some cases, students may be asked to borrow or re-use a costume to help classes have more costume options early in a competition season. In an effort to ensure that costumes are delivered in time for Competition Season and in an organized distribution to our students, costume orders may be placed as early as September. Costume manufacturers do not accept cancellations or offer refunds; therefore, AAD is not able to refund deposits or costume balances. All costumes must meet AAD standards and must be age appropriate. If costume selections are questionable, Miss Amanda would be happy to discuss further. In some case, students will be asked to use a different costume when performing in local area performances. Students competing a solo, duet or other small group (outside regular scheduled class) will order a costume, or use a costume yet to see the competition stage. AAD can send you recommendations and assist in the selection process.  Orders could include a shipping charge unless accompanied with another order. We will group orders together when possible to save on shipping. AAD also has a previously worn costume program with a wide variety of costumes to choose from! Please set up an appointment to view our selection.

All students were measured during their regularly scheduled classes and the appropriate sized costumes have been ordered for each dancer. Costumes selected by individuals must determine their own size when ordering. AAD would be happy to assist.

Although rare, alterations are sometimes needed after the costumes have been distributed and are the sole responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian. Please contact the AAD office for recommended dressmakers.

Costumes for competition will be distributed upon arrival. The deadline for all costume balances is due upon arrival.

No refunds will be made if a parent or guardian withdraws a child from AAD after costumes have been ordered. Parents or guardians may pick up purchased costumes at the studio at the time of general costume distribution and up to 15 days after the performance. Costumes not picked up after 15 days will be donated to charity.

The estimated cost of costumes is between $60-120 for child sizes and $70-$130 for adult sizes (tights are included only for class costumes, but may not be included in this total) . Discounts are available for clearance costumes. Any special orders, including extra-large sizes, may require an additional charge (determined by the costume company). Additional charges are the sole responsibility of the parent or guardian. Accessories, such as headpieces or gloves and tights are included in the cost of the costume. Shoes, basic hair supplies and make-up are not included. Any solo/duet costumes may cost more or less depending on the style selected by student and family. All prices for these costumes will be disclosed to the student and family prior to placing a costume order, and will not be ordered until the family has approved the price. Tights are not included with solo/duet costumes and will be the responsibility of the student to purchase separately. Uniform lip color is required for all dancers.

Rolling suitcases aka “dream duffels” with wheels can be purchased. If your child has several costumes, a duffle or rack is a smart investment. It keeps the costumes organized, prevents wrinkles, and provides some privacy during costume changes. Hang costumes on the rack in the order they will be needed in the show. Please contact AAD if you would like more information.

Click here for a full list.

The Focus Is Not Simply on Competition. It is our goal to instill in our students a passion for performing rather than merely the desire to win awards. Toward that end, Competitive Dancers have performance opportunities other than competitions. We believe the lessons learned through community performances are as valuable as the competition experience.

Our solid reputation for quality reflects our attitude toward competition and our goal to develop in each student a genuine respect for dance as an art form. We consider students’ participation in competitions not merely part of their dance training; it’s also an important part of how we influence their growth as people. With the right focus, the experience gained in competition can be an excellent source of self-confidence. If the dancers feel good about a performance and understand that they become better each time they go onstage, they are truly growing through the competition experience. Hitting that stage and doing the best they can is what it’s all about; whether they win––or which award they win––is secondary.

Through participation in competitions, we hope to instill in our students an appreciation for other dancers and schools. We are not out to beat anyone; instead, we hope to motivate both students and faculty by exposing them to the highest caliber of talent available. Only then can we produce the best dancers and teachers possible. For us, competition is an education! We believe the lessons learned through concert performances are just as valuable as the competition experience.

Stay Connected: https://amandasacademy.com/connect/

Performances and competitions are your opportunity to show the world the results of your dedication and hard work. Here’s what you can do to make the most of this opportunity:

• Arrive at performances at least one hour before the scheduled time unless otherwise advised by your teachers.
• Be sure you are properly warmed up.
• Present yourself in a professional manner, with costumes pressed, shoes cleaned, and all accessories accounted for.
• Treat competitors and teachers from other schools with respect.
• Treat the directors and staff of the competition with respect.
• Keep your area of the dressing rooms clean and never bring food or drink where it is prohibited.
• Wear your school uniform to all competition events and during the award presentations.
• All imagery including, but not limited to, photographs and video recordings of a student is the sole property of the Studio and may be used at the discretion of the Studio for advertising/promotional purposes.

When planning a competition weekend, be prepared for performances on Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday. Once a schedule is prepared you may find that you do not have to attend the entire weekend, but you must be prepared to do so. There are no exceptions. Approximately one-two weeks prior to the event, the competition company will supply our office with an itinerary. Schedules will be emailed to all dancers and their parents as soon as they are received. We pride ourselves on being an organized, professional school and we do not request changes to the dance competition schedule (except in the case of emergencies).

When presented with an award, always show professionalism by thanking the person who presents you with the award. Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated. Trophies and other awards for duets, trios or groups will proudly be displayed at the studio. Soloist are able to take their awards home. Team wear/logo wear must be worn for the presentation of awards.

Enthusiastic applause is encouraged; however, it is never appropriate to scream or yell out names at a competition event or in any other performance venue. When in an auditorium, remain seated whenever dancers are performing onstage.

No dancer may compete in any competition as an independent entry without the permission of the school director.

It is important to not use the most popular song of the year for your solo, no matter how much you love it and are dying to dance to it! Everyone will be using that song, and you don’t want to be the ninth dancer performing to it. You will work with your teacher/choreographer to determine the right music for your performance. Together you will look for something different that is not often performed at a competition and that suits your personality. There are millions of options and we will strive to pick the best for you!

AAD offers participation-optional fund-raisers for dancers to defray their expenses for tuition, costume expenses, competition entry fees, etc.

For more information on how to be involved with fundraising; join the AAD POD “Parents of Dancers” group on Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/616260000110562