The Ultimate Backstage Packing Guide for Your Upcoming Dance Performance

Hello, dancers and dance families! With our big performance day just around the corner, it’s time to start preparing your backstage bags. A well-packed bag can be a dancer’s best friend, helping you stay organized, comfortable, and ready to shine on stage. Here’s a detailed guide with essentials, top tips, and a few backstage etiquette reminders to make sure the day goes smoothly for everyone!

1. Wardrobe Essentials

- Costumes & Accessories: Check each costume in your bag, plus accessories—like gloves, belts, and props This will help you quickly find everything you need for each number.

- Spare Dancewear: Bring extra tights, underwear, and even a spare leotard if possible. Accidents happen, and having backups will save the day!

- Footwear: Don’t forget all the right dance shoes, from ballet shoes to tap shoes. If possible, have a second pair if one gets lost or damaged.

- Cover-ups: Bring a cosy robe or sweater to wear between performances. (Nothing that you have to pull over your head as they can murder sleep hairstyles and end u with makeup on clothes.) This will keep your muscles warm and prevent costume mishaps if you need to sit backstage.

2. Hair & Makeup

- Hair Supplies: Include hairbrushes, a fine-tooth comb, plenty of hair ties, bobby pins, hair gel, and hairspray to keep everything in place. Pre-pack these in a separate pouch for easy access.

- Makeup Kit: Keep your performance makeup together, including foundation, eye shadow, eyeliner, and lipstick in stage-appropriate colours. Bring makeup remover and cotton pads to fix any smudges.

- Touch-Up Essentials: Makeup wipes, blotting paper, and a mini mirror can be lifesavers for quick touch-ups.

3. Health & Hydration

- Water & Snacks: Performances can be long, so hydration is key! Pack a large water bottle and easy, mess-free snacks like granola bars, nuts, or fruit. Avoid anything sticky or that can stain costumes. Lunch will be in a separate area, don't eat your food in costumes!

- Personal Hygiene Items: Pack deodorant, wet wipes, and a small towel to stay fresh, especially if you’ll be dancing multiple routines.

- First Aid Kit: A small kit with band-aids, blister pads, and pain relievers is always a smart addition. You never know when these items might come in handy!

4. Warm-Up Gear

- Stretching Equipment: Bring a resistance band and maybe a small foam roller or massage ball to stretch before and after your dances.

- Warm-Up Clothes: Wear warm-up clothing between routines to keep your muscles loose and ready for each performance.

5. Backstage Entertainment

- Quiet Activities: Bring a good book, a sketchpad, or puzzles to pass the time in between routines. Keeping the energy low-key is best for conserving focus, so leave anything noisy at home.

-Remember we can not be responsible for electronics and devices.

6. Costume Care Supplies

- Sewing Kit: A basic kit with needle, thread, and safety pins can save you if there’s a last-minute wardrobe malfunction.

- Stain Remover Pen: If you’re allowed to bring one, it’s a simple solution to any minor stains.

- : After your performance, carefully pack each costume to avoid wrinkles and keep them safe.

7. Staying Organized & Respectful Backstage

- Keeping Tidy: Designate a specific area for each item in your bag so it’s easy to pack up at the end of the day but also so all your items are there for the next performance. A clutter-free space is also a respectful gesture for others sharing the backstage area.

- Jewellery & Valuables: Remove all jewellery before arriving backstage unless it’s part of your costume. Rings, bracelets, and earrings can be a safety hazard and easily get lost.

- Backstage Etiquette: Remember to stay quiet and avoid distractions while others are performing. Performances require intense concentration, so be mindful of everyone’s space and focus.

- No Photos Backstage: We have a strict no-photo policy, so please respect this rule to ensure the privacy and focus of all dancers. Anyone seen taking photos backstage will have their phones confiscated until pick up time.

Final Top Tips for a Successful Day

- Label Everything: Use a label maker or write your name on all items—especially costumes, shoes, and makeup. It’s easy for things to get mixed up with everyone using the same area.

- Prepare the Night Before: Double-check your bag, costumes, and supplies the evening before the performance to avoid any last-minute panic.

- Bring Positive Energy: The energy backstage can get tense, so bring a positive attitude, offer support to your fellow dancers, and try to stay calm.

Packing thoughtfully and staying organized will make a huge difference in how smoothly your day goes, allowing you to focus on doing what you love most—dancing! With a well-prepared bag and a calm, focused mind, you’re set for a fantastic performance day. Break a leg!