Have you ever wondered what the life of a ballet dancer looks like on a performance day? No? Too bad! I’m going to tell you anyway. 

I have had multiple performances over my 10-year dance career. Each one has given me a different experiences and helped me become a better performer altogether. Recently, I had my end-of-year spring showcase. This performance was a mix of ballet, modern, and classical jazz, and displayed all the techniques I learned in each genre. This year I can definitely say that I know what goes into a performance day schedule.

Performance days are by far one the busiest and most stressful days in a ballet dancer’s career (besides auditions). It’s a time when a performer gets to showcase their skills and have a means to justify months and months of full-body pain. But before the audience witnesses all of the glitter, lights, and glamor of a ballet performance, there is a strict way a dancer must prepare before taking the stage. 

Depending on the dancer, a performance schedule can vary, but the most common thing in every schedule is a warm-up class. Starting with a plié combination and ending with a grand allegro combination going across the floor, a warm-up class will be incorporate activities that are taught in daily classes. Every break a dancer has in this time frame is a time they should continue to stretch and hydrate (though I am ashamed to say I do not always follow these guidelines).  

After class is when the real magic starts. Based on the time of the performance, performers have a certain call time (usually about an hour before the show starts). This gives dancers time to head backstage, stretch, start their makeup, do their hair, and put on their costumes. During this preparation time, teachers yell out their last-minute corrections, dancers perform their good luck rituals, and the audience takes their seats.

For me, this time is by far one of the most enjoyable experiences. My peers and I get to play music and have our miniature backstage performances (quietly of course) before going on stage. Being backstage makes every little thing appear funnier. Maybe it’s the nerves or the refreshing feeling of getting to finish the ballet school year. 

After the performance is a time to reflect on every moment you have made this dance year. You say your goodbyes to your peers and teachers and have a final moment of peace. 

Until the next show.