Performing is a big part of learning to dance. It builds confidence that shows up in class presentations, interviews and everyday life, and it teaches dancers to work as a team toward something bigger than themselves.
The Nutcracker
Every December, Dancers Inc. presents Decatur’s only production of The Nutcracker on the stage of the historic Princess Theatre. No other local studio produces the show, and we believe it gives our students a rare chance to learn and grow.
- Who performs: every student in Elementary Ballet 1 and above.
- When: the second weekend of December, after a rehearsal week. Dancers must attend dress rehearsal to perform, except for illness or a family emergency.
- Nutcracker fee: covers the performance fee and costume rental, due in September.
- Pictures: class photos for the souvenir program are taken in early November, with optional portraits in costume.
- Tickets: sold online with reserved seating, starting after Thanksgiving. Because of the cost of producing the show, there are no complimentary tickets.
A detailed Nutcracker Packet with rehearsal and picture schedules goes home with every dancer in September.
The spring recital
Every student performs in our annual recital in May, a professionally directed show where dancers present a year of hard work to family and friends. Preschool students have a show of their own, and our competition teams share their routines too.
- Story and lead roles: the show’s title and lead roles are announced just after Halloween. Seniors and other older students are cast in lead roles based on seniority, years of dance, level and skill.
- Choreography: recital dances are taught from February through April, so regular attendance matters most then.
- Costumes: each student needs one costume per dance style. Costumes are always age-appropriate and include accessories, but not shoes or tights. Order through our online costume service by the deadline on your costume worksheet.
- Pictures: class photos in early April for the souvenir program, with no obligation to buy.
- Rehearsal week: the week before the show, so dancers understand the flow of the production. Dress rehearsal is required to perform.
- Tickets: sold online with reserved seating, about three weeks before the show. Each family gets a voucher code for two complimentary tickets to each show their child dances in. Everyone needs a ticket to enter, and little ones who can’t stay seated for the whole show are best left at home.
A Recital Handbook with all the details goes home in February.
At every show
- Cheer loudly with applause, but please don’t scream or call out names.
- Stay seated while dancers are on stage.
- Dancers arrive and leave with a cover-up over their costume.