We know there are certain things dancers can do pre-show to help them perform at their best. (Like warming up, eating something energizing and maybe even taking a nap!)
But pre-show routines are also highly individual, and involve artists preparing their heads for performance just as much as their bodies. That could mean anything from listening to a favorite song, bonding with cast members or meditating.
Feeling like your pre-show ritual could use a bit of inspiration? These 12 pros shared their tried-and-true routines with us:
Choreographer and Entrepreneur Jacob Jonas
Miami City Ballet's Nathalia Arja
Dancer and Choreographer Emma Portner
The Washington Ballet's Ashley Murphy
"I take a power nap, drink a Red Bull and take three Advil."
Dancer and Choreographer Ephrat Asherie
Pacific Northwest Ballet's Leta Biasucci
Martha Graham Dance Company's PeiJu Chien-Pott
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's Hope Boykin
Dancer and Choreographer Caleb Teicher
Ballet Dancer Joy Womack
"A nap, music, meditation, a solid class and a leisurely yet thorough warm up. Also, SECOND SKIN."