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TAKE IT FROM THE TOP! Five, six, seven - EIGHT!

The legendary Fred Astaire was reputed as the King of Dance and a demanding perfectionist as well. The routine was deemed ready by its 40th rehearsal, yet the 41st rehearsal determined the final level of "Astaire perfection." While this trait was commendable, it could also leave one grinding their teeth out of frustration.

As a trained Fred Astaire rhythm dancer who trophied twice in the Latin Division, just color me ecstatic in this vein. I am reputed as the "ham that can't be cured." For me, the bigger the audience, the better. I've been performing since the age of four years old. My first performance was a slice of cake because I was comfortable with my routine and my dance instructor.

No two people are the same. Next to your Graduation or Wedding rehearsal, preparing for your first dance performance is the second most important thing to you right now. You've practiced long, hard hours to make the routine your own and now the time is approaching for you to SHINE out there.

Learning steps are easy, but dancing from your heart and through your heart is what makes dancing fun and meaningful. Whether you are performing in a small room or the Great Stage, it is about FEELING the music and only then, sending the message to your viewing audience. If you are partnered up, you have already been told to maintain total eye-contact with him/her for direction. Do not glance at the audience for it will throw your center-balance off, disrupt the momentum and trash your entire performance. If you are doing a solo (contemporary, jazz or ballet), then dance as though you are alone in a room or studio, focusing on self-expression while telling your story.

The main ingredients in preparing for your first dance performance include comfort, chemistry, connection, styling and technique, all of which constitute the "selling point" of a successfully executed dance routine. The time-frame for preparation of a performance is usually four to six weeks. During this time, you have much to do. You must select the type of dance, the music or CD and the costume-fitting. Once the steps are perfected, a dance coach might be brought in for the recommended styling and technique. Loosely fitted comfortable clothes such as sweatpants or jeans are recommended for rehearsals and, if possible, a second pair of dance shoes for backup. You have bottled water to stay hydrated and eating light meals for easy digestion. Dancers must be light in weight as well

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