Success means something different to every dancer, but it’s what we’re all looking for to some degree. While there’s no shortcut to any definition of the word; there are many factors that contribute to your accomplishment and employability as a dancer other than natural talent. Being present and active in your classes every week is a given, but what can you do outside of the usual to manifest your aspirations?

Here are 6 things you may not have heard before, to help you achieve your dance goals:

1. Embrace change

Structure and practice are key to continued progress, but introducing new things to your normal schedule can broaden your creativity. If you’ve been devoted to a particular style of dance or danced at the same studio throughout your training, changing things up will give you a fresh perspective on your expression and technique.

Taking classes in a different style isn’t about being the best, it’s about having fun and exploring your range as an artist. If you’re a ballet dancer, the freedom of contemporary or the power of commercial can bring emotion and strength to your classical practice. 

Alternatively, the discipline of ballet can help with skilful execution of complex choreography in modern styles. When choosing a class in a new style, consider taking one at a slightly lower level than you would usually to set yourself up for a productive class.

Experiencing different teachers in your chosen dance style is also a great way to deepen your understanding of your own capabilities and areas for improvement. A new teacher will approach and structure the class differently and provide feedback you may not have considered before. Connecting with many dance teachers during your training will also prepare you for contracts and auditions where you won’t always know everyone.

2. Join the audience

As a dedicated creative professional, you should also be a supporter of the Arts in general. The best way to show your industry some love is to go to more performances. Find out if any independent dance companies are touring in your area and try to go with some friends at least a few times a year. 

If you’re used to being on the stage, being part of the audience is a treat. Not only can you relax and enjoy a fun night out with friends, but you’ll also experience the performance from the other side. Watching other accomplished dancers perform is a great way to pick up on how they bring stories and choreography to life. It helps keep you up to date with the ever-evolving world of performing arts and the inspiration for your own practice and career goals is invaluable.

3. Network

As much as it counts to be the best dancer you can be, the dance world is a small one and knowing a few people will always help you land an audition or a job. Approach networking with a genuine interest in getting to know people rather than focusing purely on who is hiring and who can help you get the job. 

Going to workshops and shows is also a great way to meet new people. Afterwards, don’t just leave – hang around and talk to your fellow audience members. Make sure you know who the dancers, choreographers and creative directors are beforehand and make a point of telling them how much you enjoyed the night, ask them about their creative process and what else they are working on. People love to talk about their passion projects and you never know who could be judging your dream job audition down the track.

4. Get the right equipment

A good craftsperson never blames their tools, but having the right equipment certainly makes things easier. Clean out that trusty dance bag and take stock of what you already have and what you need to help you on your way.

• Replace any worn out shoes or shoe accessories to look after one of your most important tools – those feet!

• If you don’t already own a few Therabands in different strengths they’re a great investment and a super easy way to maintain your conditioning on the go.

• Upgrade your technology. Dancewear has come a long way in the last few years so don’t miss out on the performance enhancing benefits of compression dancewear and tights.

• A busy dance schedule can mean you have some travel or downtime between classes. Make the most of it with dance podcasts – our current favourite is Meet Me at the Barre by the Australian Ballet ­– or keep yourself calm and ready for anything with a meditation app like Smiling Mind.

• Warming up properly before dance is proven to help prevent injury and there’s nothing better than our 100% merino wool collection for a comfortable and safe warm up.

• Convert your stage-ready skincare products to all-natural alternatives with Eco-Tan.

• Keep a notebook handy for recording corrections and reminders, or for journaling your creative process and winding down at the end of the day.

5. Visit specialist health professionals

It’s easy to put off booking that appointment because of a busy schedule, but an important part of cultivating your passion as a dancer is looking after your body and addressing even those mild pains and concerns. The best way to ensure optimal performance is to see a few different health professionals with specific experience in treating dancers. 

A regular appointment with a physiotherapist or podiatrist who knows how to look after dancers can help manage pain and prevent injuries to reduce any time spent in recovery. If you don’t have any current contacts, see a GP for a referral and ask around your dance studio for recommendations. Finally, don’t be afraid to see a few different professionals to find one you trust and feel comfortable with.

6. Rest

Dancers are constantly chasing perfection; in training, technique, artistry, healthy eating and the list goes on. You may think of any time not spent pursuing and perfecting dance as time wasted, but that’s not true. Sometimes the best thing you can do for your body, mind and your dancing is to get some rest.

We all wish we had more hours in the day and it’s tempting to borrow a few hours from our sleep. Quality sleep has a strong scientific link to improved physical health and mental resilience. When well rested, you’re more likely to perform better and cope more successfully with adversity like criticism and setbacks. Practice good sleep hygiene like limiting screen-time at least an hour before bed, keeping your phone outside your bedroom, stretching and clearing your mind before cosying up for a good night’s sleep.

Dance is a huge part of your life, but it’s so important for your wellbeing to balance your greatest passion with participating in the world outside of the studio. So, while you’re scheduling time for quality sleep, also consider how your friends and family enrich your life and be sure to prioritise time spent with the people you love. Social connections are fuel for your creativity and you’ll come back to dance more refreshed and energised than before.

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Article by Thalia Carter

Photographs by Elly Ford

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