DANCE 101

Avoid Dance Exam Jitters

By Irene Booth | May 11, 2011

There are many forms of examinations that are offered to dance students worldwide and during this time of year students of all ages are working hard preparing for them.

Exams are a great learning tool that offers students a challenge to show their understanding of the work provided to enhance their progressions, and dance technique.

Most private dance schools will offer some kind of syllabus with a structured format consisting of set exercises and combinations that students learn throughout the dance season. Exercises generally include a barre section, centre practice, combinations, short dances, and sometimes, character and free work.

A third-party examiner assesses candidates on the standard of their technique and performance abilities. A written report is provided to help indicate the strengths and areas that need improvement.

Dance teachers encourage students to take part in examinations for many reasons: to prepare for future levels, establish good work ethics and strengthen training overall. They can also be a rewarding experience for young dancers to help them achieve a short-term goal.

Preparing for exams is just as important as attending class and learning the material required. Here are some tips that will help through the exam process:

Extra lessons
Teachers will often set extra lessons to go over the material (make sure you bring notebooks!) and prepare the students for the format that is required for examinations. Usually time is set aside to discuss how to enter the room and acknowledge the examiner, where to put their things, how to stand at the barre, basic preparations that students need to know. These extra lessons are important for students to attend since many of the fine details are covered at this time.

Mock Exam
Most studios like to set a "Mock Exam" , which is an extra class that students attend that runs exactly like the real exam. Students come prepared groomed with their uniform and hair done and go through the process as if it was the real thing.

Look Presentable
You want to be groomed respectfully for your examiner and make a lasting impression so avoid wearing any types of jewelry, make up and nail polish on exam day. No press on tattoos please! If you are trimming toe nails be careful not to over trim.

Hair
Your hair for exams should be tied back as best you can. French braids with the tails pinned under or a ballet bun with bangs gelled back suit exams the best. The hair is completely out of the way for the dancer to allow the child to spend the entire time focusing on their performance. Always bring your own hair brush, hair pins, hairspray, gel and hair net to exam day. Consider not washing your hair, as dirty hair goes up in a bun a lot easier than clean hair.

What to Wear
Most exam organizations will have set guidelines that are required for dance wear. Within these guidelines you will find that your own studio and instructor will have a preferred type of uniform and perhaps even a studio colour that they like to follow. Students generally wear a bodysuit, a pair of tights and proper dance shoes. Clothing should be cleaned, pressed and should not have any visible rips tears or stains on them. Students are expected to look presentable.

Pre-Exam Preparation
Prepare all shoes and items needed the evening before including: a towel, deodorant, Kleenex and a bottle of water. Try to have a restful evening with a hot bath or by calling it an early night.

Exam Day
Avoiding any kind of conflicts in the morning will allow everyone to have a great day. Eat a light meal prior to exam to give you energy. Make an effort to arrive early – generally forty five minutes prior to exam -this will allow you to dress, groom your hair and warm up. During the waiting period, try to stay warm by wearing a light wrap or zip up hoodie that has been packed.

Go in feeling confident and remember to have fun and enjoy the moment. By reviewing your material on a weekly basis you will secure your placement and provide you with a great sense of achievement. Most likely you have worked all year and this is your opportunity to shine!


Irene Booth has been teaching for over 29 years. From an early age, Irene devoted her time in learning all aspects of the dance world. A mentor and registered teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance, she operates an established dance school on Vancouver Island, British Columbia and enjoys adjudicating competitions and festivals all across Canada.