Dance

Okay so I feel fairly comfortable with college auditions coming up and have been practicing my repertoire regularly. However, I just woke up this morning with a nightmare about a dance call, which points out that I must be pretty scared for what all happens in these dance calls. Can anyone share some advice about these and maybe even make a list of terms I might need to familiarize myself with from ballet and jazz?

I feel like I can manage most of the jazz dance routines, but a few schools teach a ballet routine also. And that TERRIFIES me.

I am a bass-baritone singer male, so my competition isn’t quite the same as most females. However, I’m still very worried about my little dance training (aside from being in several shows).

Also, do I really have to get jazz pants? They seem weird and flowly. I have tights that I’d almost rather wear, but they also make me feel like a fraud because I don’t know actual ballet.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

You do not need to get jazz pants. There are some less-flown jazz pants out there, but depending on your height they may be a little hard to come by (Check out the men’s section on Discount Dance dot com) - but any somewhat form-fitting bottoms that allow for good movement will do - sweats/joggers that aren’t too baggy, bike shorts, athletic leggings like runners wear. Your tights are OK. Hopefully you already know this, but since you say you’re not a dancer (my baritone S is an MT BFA junior with extensive dance background) I’m throwing it out there, just in case - you need a dance belt. You should probably have one even if you’re wearing biking shorts or running leggings. (you’ll need it when you get to college anyway).

On the dance call side, you might want to check out some Youtube videos on basic ballet terms - barre positions, basic warm-up floor exercises. There are many very talented folks who get into top MT programs with little-to-no dance background (my S’s freshman year roommate was one) - so at this point, try not to sweat it too much. If you have a dance-trained friend, you might spend a few sessions with him/her going over basic steps and terms. It won’t make you a “dancer” but you may feel more comfortable with the terminology. Being a bass-baritone male already gives you a bit of an advantage. Give 'em the best you’ve got in your auditions and try to “act” your way through the dancing - look enthusiastic and like you’re having fun (even if you have no idea what they’re saying). Good luck.