Heading to your child's first dance competition?
Feeling overwhelmed by tight buns, sequins, and early call times? You’re not alone!
For many Canadian parents, entering the world of competitive dance can be exciting… and totally confusing. Whether you’re the dance mom (or dad!) who’s driving to every rehearsal or someone just trying to keep the costume bag organized, this guide is for you.
Here are 11 things every first-time dance parent should know before competition season starts — so you can support your dancer with confidence.
1. Pack More Than Just a Costume
- Extra tights and undergarments – because life happens! Always pack at least one spare set.
- Back up shoes – yes, even for dances your child isn’t scheduled in. If another dancer is injured, sick, or there’s a last-minute change, your dancer may be asked to step in.
- Hair supplies – curling iron, flat iron, comb/brush, extra bobby pins, elastics, bun makers, hair nets, and strong hairspray.
- Full makeup kit with instructions – including extra lashes and lash glue. Studios usually specify exact colors and application style, so follow those guidelines closely.
- Water and snacks – pack for your dancer and for yourself. Competitions run long, and you may not have time to leave the venue. Avoid messy snacks and focus on high-protein, high-fibre options to keep energy up.
- Costume helpers – steamer or wrinkle spray, garment bags (one per costume, labeled with your child’s name and routine), safety pins, and a small sewing kit.
- A checklist – to keep prep stress-free and ensure nothing gets forgotten on competition day.
2. Plan to Arrive Earlier Than You Think
If your dancer is scheduled to compete at 10:00 AM, don’t plan to arrive at 9:45. Most studios require dancers to be there 1.5–2 hours before their stage time, fully dressed with hair and makeup complete.
Arriving early gives dancers time to warm up, rehearse, and calm nerves. It also prevents panic if the competition is running ahead of schedule (which happens often!). Think of “competition time” as being earlier than what’s printed on the program.
3. Be Ready for Long Days
A single routine might last two minutes, but competition days can stretch into 10–12 hours. Be prepared with comfortable seating, snacks, chargers, and quiet activities for siblings.
Schedules can change at the last minute, and breaks are often short. Many first-time parents are surprised by how much “waiting around” there is, so bring patience — and maybe even a blanket if the venue is chilly.
4. Budget for More Than Just Costumes
Competition costs add up quickly. In Canada, group entry fees typically range from $60–$75 per dancer per routine, while solos, duets, and trios can cost $100–$150 each.
On top of this, most competitions sell spectator tickets for families. Some include livestreaming or basic photography with the entry fee, while others charge separately. Be aware that many events also host a finale showcase — and tickets are usually sold separately for this. Finales vary: some invite the top dance from each studio, while others hold a “best of the best” showcase across categories.
Competitions often run Friday–Sunday, but larger events can start mid-week and extend into late Sunday evening — so plan your travel and budget with that in mind.
5. Competitions Can Run Ahead of Schedule
Unlike recitals, competitions don’t always run on time. In fact, many run early, and that can mean your dancer’s group is called before the official program time.
This is why studios require dancers ready well in advance. Always stay near the stage area once your dancer is dressed — missing a call time is heartbreaking and not something competitions can always redo.
6. Stage Makeup Will Look Dramatic (and That’s Normal!)
First-time parents are often shocked by how bold competition makeup looks. Heavy eyeliner, bright lipstick, and false eyelashes may seem like too much up close, but under strong stage lights, it ensures judges can see expressions clearly.
Most studios provide detailed makeup instructions to keep dancers consistent. Don’t worry — your child won’t look “overdone” on stage.
7. Cheer Loudly — But Respectfully
Applause and cheers boost dancers’ confidence, but every competition has its own etiquette. Be supportive without yelling over music or judges’ comments. A good rule of thumb: clap and cheer loudly, but avoid anything disruptive.
And yes, cheering for other studios’ dancers is encouraged. The dance community thrives on positivity and respect.
8. Judging Isn’t Always What You Expect
Placements can surprise first-time parents. Judges score based on technique, performance, choreography, and execution, not just on who seems “the best.”
Every competition has its own scoring system (high gold, platinum, etc.), so don’t get caught up comparing awards between events. Encourage your dancer to focus on personal growth and team spirit, not just medals.
9. Book Accommodations Early (and Think Beyond Hotels)
Hotels near venues often sell out quickly, so book as soon as schedules are released. But don’t forget alternatives: renting a Vrbo or Airbnb with other dance families can give you more space, let you cook meals (saving $$ compared to eating out all weekend), and create bonding time with your team.
If you’re traveling as a family, it can also turn competition weekend into a mini-vacation.
10. Know the Rules on Photography and Video
Very few competitions in Canada allow personal photography or videography during performances — it’s a safety, privacy, and copyright issue. But this doesn’t mean you’ll miss out.
Many competitions now provide professional photos, highlight reels, or livestreaming packages. Sometimes these are included in your entry fees; other times they’re sold separately. Some even give you access to a livestream for free, then offer individual or package photo/video purchases afterward.
On Dancecomp.ca, you can filter competitions by photography rules, livestream availability, and package options — making it easier to choose the right event for your family.
11. Stay Flexible and Enjoy the Experience
No matter how much you prepare, something unexpected will happen — a shoe strap breaks, a schedule shifts, or a costume wrinkle refuses to steam out.
The best way to handle competition day is with flexibility, patience, and perspective. Remember, the day is about your dancer’s growth, memories with teammates, and celebrating their hard work. Awards are just the cherry on top.
Wrapping Up Your First Competition Weekend
Your dancer’s first competition can feel like a whirlwind — full of excitement, nerves, and a lot of logistics. With these 11 tips in your back pocket, you’ll be prepared for the early mornings, costume changes, and long days that come with the experience.
Remember, no two competitions are exactly the same. Schedules, costs, and rules vary — but what doesn’t change is the pride you’ll feel watching your dancer shine on stage.
If you’re planning your season, check out Dancecomp.ca to explore Canadian competitions by name, city, province, and even features like livestreaming and photo packages.
And don’t forget — preparation is key. Use a competition packing checklist to keep your weekend stress-free and focused on what really matters: cheering on your dancer.
You’ve got this — welcome to the competition world!
