New Parent’s Guide to Dance Conventions

Conventions are a great way for dancers to get extra training in a variety of styles from industry leaders alongside dancers from all over the country.

(Step-by-Step, No Dumb Questions Left Out!)
Created with assistance from ChatGPT

1. Who pays to attend?

The dancer always pays. This covers their classes, wristband, and participation in the convention.

Observers (parents/guardians/siblings) usually need to buy an Observer Band if they want to go into the ballrooms and watch classes. Some events allow free observers, but most charge.

2. How do you register?

Through the studio. Your studio director collects all fees and handles registration. You don’t register your child directly with the convention (unless your studio says otherwise).

⏰ Deadlines matter. The earlier you register, the cheaper it usually is.

3. What exactly are you paying for?

Convention fee (required): Covers all classes for the dancer for the weekend (usually Saturday + Sunday).
Observer band (optional): For parents/family to watch classes.
Competition fee (optional): If your dancer is competing in solos/duos/trios/groups, those fees are separate.

4. What happens at a convention?

Dancers take classes all day — typically 5–7 hours, broken into 45–60 minute sessions in styles like jazz, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre, and tap.

Classes are taught by big-name choreographers — industry professionals, sometimes famous from TV shows or tours.

Observers sit in the back of the ballroom (if they have a band) to watch and cheer.

5. Do dancers compete?

Sometimes! Conventions often host a competition at night or on the first day.

Competition is optional — your dancer can attend classes only without competing.

6. Are there levels?

Yes! Dancers are grouped by age or skill level. Typical breakdown:

Minis (7 & under)
Juniors (8–10)
Teens (11–13)
Seniors (14+)

Dancers usually stay with their age group unless a teacher or the studio decides to bump them up.

7. What should my dancer wear?

Dress code is flexible — think athletic or dancewear: leggings, leotards, crop tops, shorts.
Fun colors and patterns are encouraged!

Shoes: jazz shoes, sneakers, ballet shoes (and tap shoes if applicable).
Layers: ballrooms can be cold one minute and hot the next.
Bring a skirt for ballet and a shirt or hoodie for hip hop/tap to put over dancewear.

8. What do parents do all day?

If you bought an observer band: sit, watch, and learn what your dancer is learning.
If not: many parents work from the lobby, run errands, or hang out at the hotel café until classes end.

9. What about scholarships?

At the end of the weekend, some dancers are chosen for scholarships (free or discounted tuition to future events).

Selections are based on participation, performance, and effort — not just tricks.

10. Final tips for first-timers

Pack snacks and water. Dancers run all day with minimal lunch breaks.
Label everything. Hundreds of identical shoes = easy mix-ups.
Expect higher total costs than the website shows (processing/admin fees).
Relax. It’s a whirlwind — but dancers always leave inspired!

11. What to Expect from the Studio During Convention Weekends

Before the event:
Your studio will post a detailed schedule with check-in times, room assignments, and any competition routines. Read it carefully — conventions often start early and run late.

At the event:
A studio representative (owner or teacher) is usually on-site the entire weekend. They distribute wristbands, handle communication with convention staff, and make sure dancers get to class on time.
👉 Parents should not approach convention staff directly — all communication goes through studio staff for professionalism and organization.

After classes or competition:
Your dancer may be asked to meet for team photos or group check-ins. Studios often attend awards together, so stay nearby until your dancer is completely finished.

Pro tip: Keep notifications on! Updates are often sent through the Esprit App, in the group Convention Attendees. Make sure you’ve joined that group and have your notifications on!

12. Packing, Preparation & Convention Etiquette

Arrive Early:
Plan to arrive 45–60 minutes before the first class or competition. Locate your studio staff or representative near the registration desk to pick up your dancer’s wristband and convention number before heading to the ballroom.

What to Pack:

Dance bag (labeled!)
Jazz, tap, ballet shoes & sneakers
Extra dancewear and layers
Studio warm-up jacket or hoodie
Snacks and water
Notebook/pen for combos
Hair supplies, Band-Aids, safety pins, deodorant, tape
Backup tights/socks
Chargers

During Classes:
Dancers should stay engaged, focused, and positive. It’s okay to make mistakes — conventions are about learning, not perfection! Take breaks quietly when needed and rejoin respectfully.

Phones stay put away unless teachers invite videos at the end.

Parent & Observer Etiquette:
If you’re watching, please stay seated, keep voices low, and celebrate all dancers. Avoid coaching or shouting corrections. Follow convention photo/video rules.

Supportive Studio Spirit:
Encourage kindness, teamwork, and cheering for everyone. A smile or “great job” builds confidence and reflects well on your studio. Remember — every dancer in the room is there to grow and learn together.

✨ Final Thought:
Conventions can be busy, loud, and a little overwhelming — but they’re also some of the most inspiring weekends in a dancer’s year. With preparation, respect, and teamwork, your dancer (and you!) will walk away feeling proud, confident, and connected.