Frequently Asked Questions

Being a member of this unbelievably talented group of dancers is an exciting and memorable opportunity. Our staff brings different talents and styles together to form one of the best competition teams in the country.  Our teachers are known for their award winning choreography and our students have been described as “technically flawless.”  Dance Force has taken top honors across the United States and it is recognized on the local, state and national levels. 

Auditions are held annually.

How do I become a member of Dance Force?

Auditions are held annually.  Students audition in 2 different age groups:

Ages 6 – 11                9:30am – 10:45am 

Ages 12 – 18              11:00am – 12:15pm

Students will be judged on their ballet and jazz technique as well as their flexibility, energy, performance and style.  A dance combination will be taught to see how fast they can catch on.  New members will be posted on the door and website a few days later to let them know if they made Dance Force or not.  Good Luck!

What should I bring and wear to auditions?  

You will be judged on how well you follow directions.  You should arrive at least ½ hour early to register and warm up.  {No registration fee} Girls should wear a solid black leotard with tan tights.  Ballet shoes and jazz shoes are required.  Your hair should be in a low bun slicked back nice and neat.  Junior’s and Senior’s should wear some make-up.  Boys should wear a white t-shirt and black pants.  Ballet and jazz shoes are required.

What classes are required to be a member of Dance Force?

PeeWee’s {ages 6-9} are required to take a 1 hour Leaps and Turns/Technique class and a ½ hour Tap Technique class.  Ballet class is not required, however, it is strongly recommended. 

Junior’s {ages 9-11} and Senior’s {ages 12-18} are required to take a 1 ½ hour Leaps and Turns/Technique class, a ½ hour Tap Technique class and a 1 ½ hour Ballet Technique class. 

How many competitions does Dance Force attend and when are they?

Dance Force attends 4 – 5 regional competitions a year between the months of January and April. Most are held in the Baton Rouge area.  However, sometimes we attend competitions or conventions in New Orleans, Biloxi or Lafayette. If we attend a national competition, it is usually in late June or early July.

You will receive the dates for all the regional competitions we will attend in September.  If we attend nationals, it will be decided by March.

A schedule for each routine and the time it will compete will be given to you about 1 week before the competition.  You could be competing on a Friday afternoon, Saturday or Sunday depending on how big the competition is. 

 What is “Full Force” Camp?

This is a mandatory 2 week intense rehearsal period prior to our nationals if we choose to attend one.  Full Force camp is always held 2 weeks prior to the nationals we attend.  You will be given a detailed schedule about 3 weeks before we begin.  Rehearsals are usually held in the afternoon. 

How many routines can I be in?

Every member must be in a minimum of 2 routines.  The Line routine and 1 other Large Group routine are mandatory.  After that, you may choose the number of Large Group routines you would like to participate in as long as it is offered in your age group.  The directors will decide who will be in any Small Groups by a separate audition or they may be picked by the directors.  Remember, the more routines you are in, the more your fees and commitment level will increase. 

Can I do a Solo or Duo/Trio?

Absolutely!  All you have to do is ask.  The directors will work with you to decide on what music and style routine you will perform.  You can choose the choreographer and teacher. However, you must commit to that partnership for the remainder of the competition season.  All Duo/Trio pairings must be agreed upon by the directors. 

When do Dance Force routines rehearse?

The Line and all Large Groups rehearse on Wednesday nights along with all the PeeWee routines.  Small Groups rehearse on Tuesday and Thursday and any Solo’s or Duo/Trio’s will rehearse on the weekend at a time that is convenient for you and the teacher you are working with.

What does the Dance Force uniform consist of?

Each new member is required to purchase a uniform that will consist of a hoodie and pants, t-shirt and 1 Dance Force leotard. The hoodie and pants should be worn for all award sessions.  The cost is approximately $140. 

How much are costumes and what do they include?

Dance Force costumes cost approximately $100 - $200 each.  A $100 {per costume} deposit will be required in August for each costume.  Any shoes or tights that are required are not included in this fee.  You may be required to purchase a competition jewelry set.  This set includes a rhinestone necklace, earrings and bracelet.  The cost is approximately $40.

How much does Dance Force cost?

Your monthly tuition includes your required weekly technique classes, choreography fees, rehearsals and 2 Dance Force routines. {1 Line and 1 Large Group}  Remember, your cost will increase with every routine you add at a cost of $25 per routine.

Competition Fees and Costume Fees will be added to your monthly tuition for the months of September – January.

PeeWee’s        $120    1 ½ hours of technique and 2 Dance Force routines

Junior’s            $160    3 ½ hours of technique and 2 Dance Force routines

Senior’s            $160    3 ½ hours of technique and 2 Dance Force routines

Solo Fee          $350   Includes a choreography fee and 3 hours of instruction.

Duo/Trio          $400   per routine.  Includes a choreography fee and 3 hours of instruction.

Private $50      per hour or $30 per ½ hour.

Group Entry Fees         *$30 per dancer, per routine at 4 regionals would be about $240 annually.

Solo Entry Fees            *$70 per routine at 4 regionals would be about $280 annually.

Duo/Trio Entry Fees     *$100 per routine at 4 regionals would be about $400 annually.

* National fees are slightly higher. 

* The above are approximate fees

* Any Solo or Duo/Trio may attend other competitions with the director’s permission.

What is the Dance Force Handbook?

Each family will be given a Dance Force Handbook at the first meeting. It will explain in detail what is expected of each member as well as their parents for the new competition season.  It should be used as a guide throughout the year if you have any questions. 

Are there Fundraising Opportunities?

Absolutely! You will have several opportunities to raise money throughout the year.  Our fundraising committee will give that information to you in September if you are interested.

What is the Dance Force motto?

“When one of our members is on the stage, our entire team is on the stage!” 

Teamwork all the way!  Geaux Dance Force!!!