What Does It Take to Get Noticed at a Dance Convention?

March 16, 2020

Conventions can offer myriad opportunities, from making connections to landing college scholarships. But how can a dancer stand out in a sea of talent? We turned to some of our favorite convention faculty to find out.

Kayle Kalbfleisch demonstrates to a room full of students

Courtesy 24 Seven Dance Convention

Kayla Kalbfleisch: Jazz teacher at 24 Seven Dance Convention

“A dancer who is willing to take risks stylistically will always catch my eye. In convention auditions, there are so many technical dancers in the room. The ones who pay attention to detail, yet are confident enough to bring their own individuality, a boldness to the choreography, always stand out to me.”

Tap teacher Jason Luks high fives his students

Courtesy NYCDA

Jason Luks: Tap teacher at New York City Dance Alliance

“So often in a convention tap class, dancers are taking class on carpet, or sometimes even in sneakers. I always look for weight placement. You have to show me that your body is leaning into the right place. If you put the room on mute, I would still be able to know who’s doing the correct footwork just by looking at where the body is and how much they’re picking up their feet.”

Mallauri Esquibel teaching

Robert Kelley, Courtesy NRG

Mallauri Esquibel: Ballet and lyrical teacher at NRG danceProject

“I love when dancers use their voices. We meet and see hundreds of kids a weekend. I love when a dancer introduces themselves to me after class. Those little moments make lasting impressions.”