The Useless, Inattentive Dance Assistant

Audience, you Rock!

Some subjects require a direct approach. That’s why this article is not titled, “Top 10 Tips to Becoming the Best Dance Assistant Ever.

Dance assistants play an important role. Whether you’re assisting for an ‘in studio’ class or on a convention or festival, it’s serious business.  When it comes to assisting, you’re either adding value or you’re a battery drainer.

I receive countless requests from students who want to assist. As part of my research for this article, I contacted hundreds of thousands of dance teachers to get their input. Here’s what they had to say.

Useless assistants:

1. Do not think. They stand around day-dreaming and enjoying the limelight.

2. Get or bring water for themselves only.

3. Are not proactive. They do nothing to anticipate what instructors need next.

4. Drag along with a ho-hum shuffle. They have no pep in their step and they look bored.

The Secret to a Successful Dance Career

Imagine this:

You’re a judge for a professional dance company.  Many dancers have auditioned before you and you are down to making a final choice between two very graceful and equally talented dancers.

They both dance with exquisite form and technique.  They both know how to captivate an audience – but you can only choose one…

One dancer, she is elegant, and she knows it.  She moves with precision and with emotion.  She is confident and sure of herself, she devotes every waking moment to perfecting her craft.