Words to Pack By
Who better to give packing advice than dancers who’ve been there? DS consulted several competition veterans for their top tips on getting ready for the big event:
On the Fly
Even the most prepared dancer can’t predict disasters like lost luggage! To avoid such a scenario, Lauren Sigler, a dancer at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy in Greenwood Village, CO, packs all of her costume gear in a carry-on, so “there is no possibility of it getting lost.” Of course, when carrying on, it’s important to remember the airlines’ “3-1-1 Rule” for liquids: all bottles must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a quart-size clear plastic bag (one bag per passenger).
It Takes Two
“I’ve learned to bring double of everything because tights snag and hair nets tear,” says Alexandria Vandiver, a dancer at North Harris Performing Arts in Spring, TX.
Dressed for Success
In a hectic dressing room, organization makes a major difference! Janaya French, a dancer from Michelle Latimer Dance Academy, puts each costume and its accessories in a separate zip-close bag marked with her name, studio and specific routine, then packs them in performance order in her suitcase. Nicole Wasserman, an on-site coordinator for L.A. DanceMagic, suggests creating labels with masking tape or sticky notes to wrap around the necks of hangers.
