We are excited to kick off Boot Camp next week! Aug 27-AUG 30 with Audtions on AUG 31 @11AM Below are the key details you need to know, including the daily schedule, what your child should wear, expectations for the week, and what it takes to be successful on the team.

Boot Camp Schedule:

Friday, August 30:

• • Parent Meeting from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Parents may arrive at 5:30 PM if they prefer not to leave and wait for the meeting to start. During the meeting, students will participate in team bonding activities.

  • Parents will be invited to watch classes from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM and will receive live feedback on their child’s progress.

  • Note: This meeting is mandatory. If you cannot attend, please contact the studio for a Zoom link or send someone on your behalf. It is the parent’s responsibility to gather all the information if attending remotely.

Audition Schedule

Saturday, August 31:

Uniform: 

• All black dancer wear of choice with a pop of color. (No graphic tee, clothing with lots of graphics or wording.?

• Shoes: Tennis Shoes that goes with outfit 

• Hair: Student Choice

• Make up: Optional 

• Arrival and Check-In: 11:00 AM: Students arrive and check-in.

• Warm-Up and Practice: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Students will warm up and practice. This is a crucial time for everyone to prepare physically and mentally for the auditions.

• Audition Activities:

  • • 1. 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM: Group Dance Performance: Students will perform a group dance routine, demonstrating their ability to work as a team and execute choreography.

    • 2. 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM: Freestyle and Individual Performance: Each student will have the opportunity to showcase their individual talents through a freestyle dance, followed by a individual performance of the learned routine.

    • 3. 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Small Group Performances: Students will be divided into smaller groups to perform a routine together, focusing on synchronization and group dynamics.

    • 4. 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Duet Performances: Students will pair up for duet performances, showcasing their ability to work closely with a partner and complement each other’s strengths.

• Closing:

  • 2:00 PM: Auditions conclude, and students are free to leave after collecting their belongings.

• Results Announcement:

  • The results of the auditions will be announced the following Monday.

Expectations for Students:

• Effort and Attitude:

• Each day, students are expected to put in their best effort and maintain a positive attitude. Being on the competition team is intense and challenging, requiring dedication and perseverance. We understand that the training can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it’s essential that students push through difficulties and keep working hard on areas where they excel, without letting negative attitudes or self-doubt take over.

• Respect:

• Respect for staff and fellow students is non-negotiable. Disrespect in any form will not be tolerated. If a student displays low effort, disrespect, or has continual breakdowns, parents will be notified, and we may ask for the child to be picked up early. Please note that there will be no refunds in such cases.

• Support and Encouragement:

• We are committed to supporting each dancer’s growth. Throughout the week, we will incorporate affirmations, provide tips for improvement, and suggest activities to help students enhance their skills. While we may offer short time-outs if needed, our primary goal is to encourage students to push through challenges and stay focused on their goals.

Uniform and Items Needed for Boot Camp:

• Black Leggings: Suitable for dance and fitness activities.

• Black Fitness Shorts: Comfortable for movement and exercises.

• White Socks: Comfortable and suitable for active wear.

• Tennis Shoes: Black or white, suitable for dance and physical activities.

• Water Bottle: Essential for staying hydrated throughout the activities.

• Phone or iPad: For recording dance routines, useful for practice and review.

Uniform Requirements:

• New Members: Must wear the specified black fitted tank, shirt or sports bra, black leggings or black fitness shorts, white or black socks, and black or white tennis shoes each day.

• Returning Members:

• Option to wear team warm-up pants and shirt.

• Alternatively, they can wear black shorts and a black shirt.

Daily Uniform Compliance:

• All participants must come in uniform every day of the boot camp. This helps maintain a professional and disciplined atmosphere conducive to learning and performing. Points will be deducted if students are not in uniform. (Parents are welcome to purchase items at the studio if available if students are not prepared)

The Benefits of Being a Successful Dancer on the Team:

• Skill Development: By adhering to the expectations and pushing through challenges, your child will develop not only their dance skills but also important life skills like discipline, resilience, and teamwork.

• Confidence: As students see their progress and receive feedback, their confidence will grow, empowering them both on and off the dance floor.

• Team work: Being part of a team that strives for excellence creates a strong sense of community and support, helping students form lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.

• Achievement: We know what it takes to be number one, and with consistent effort and a positive attitude, your child will be well on their way to achieving their goals and contributing to the team’s overall success.

We look forward to an exciting and productive week of Boot Camp! If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.

As we prepare for Boot Camp and Auditions, we want to outline some important expectations to ensure a smooth and productive experience for everyone involved.

Expectations for Parents:

Timeliness:

• Please ensure that your child arrives on time for all scheduled activities. Punctuality is crucial to maintaining the flow of our sessions and respecting everyone’s time.

• Excessive tardiness, absences, or leaving early will result in points being deducted or may affect your child’s placement on the team.

Communication:

• Effective communication with coaches is essential. Please use the correct contact information for any questions or concerns:

• Phone: 816-500-4140 (Text or Leave a message)

• Email: icestudiosdance@gmail.com

• Important: Please do not contact coaches on their personal numbers. All communication should be directed to the official contact details provided above.

Supporting Your Child:

• Nutrition and Rest: Ensure that your child receives proper nutrition and rest, as these are key to their performance and well-being during Boot Camp and Auditions.

• Practice Time: Allow and encourage practice time at home. This helps reinforce what they learn during sessions and builds confidence.

• Feedback: Provide constructive feedback to your child to help them improve and stay motivated. Celebrate their efforts and progress.

• Team Spirit: Encourage your child to be a team player. Success in dance often comes from collaboration, support, and working together as a group.

Prioritizing the Team:

• Please make the team a priority by being mindful of involving your child in too many extracurricular activities that could take them away from focusing on the team.

• It is important for your child to be committed to their responsibilities as a team member. Ensuring that they can fully participate in team activities without conflicting obligations will contribute to both their success and the overall success of the team.

We appreciate your cooperation and commitment to making this experience positive and rewarding for your child. Together, we can help them achieve their goals and succeed on the team.

Thank you for your continued support!

• Sign into the Parent Portal : https://bit.ly/42HhKE6

• Go to the Competition Team Section

• Click on the boot camp class

• Pay for Camp

Items Needed for Boot Camp

• Black Leggings: Suitable for dance and fitness activities.

• Black Fitness Shorts: Comfortable for movement and exercises.

• White Socks: Ensure they are comfortable and suitable for active wear.

• Tennis Shoes: Black or white, suitable for dance and physical activities.

• Water Bottle: Essential for staying hydrated throughout the activities.

• Phone or iPad: For recording dance routines, useful for practice and review.

Uniform Requirements

• New Members: Must wear the specified black fitted tank, shirt or sports bra,  black legging or  black fitness shorts, white or black socks, and black or white tennis shoes each day.

• Returning Members:

• Option to wear team warm-up pants and shirt.

• Alternatively, they can wear black shorts and a black shirt.

Daily Uniform Compliance

• All participants must come in uniform every day of the boot camp. This helps maintain a professional and disciplined atmosphere conducive to learning and performing. Points will be taken if students are not in uniform

SIGN UP FOR CLASSES - https://bit.ly/42HhKE6

VIEW SCHEDULE:https://bit.ly/3s9IU3F

FALL INFO 

Attendance Policy for Dance Competition Team

At ICE STUDIOS DANCE TEAM, we prioritize commitment and dedication to the Dance Competition Team. Regular attendance is crucial for the team's success, growth, and the development of each individual dancer. Please review the following attendance policy:

Attendance Guidelines:

• All members are expected to make their best effort to attend all regular, technique, and competition classes.

• Members are allowed a maximum of 3 unexcused absences from their competition class during the dance year.

• Upon the 4th unexcused absence, the member will regrettably be dismissed from the team.

Excused Absences: Excused absences are allowed under the following circumstances and must be communicated in advance whenever possible:

• Family events (e.g., wedding, funeral)

• Contagious illness (with a Doctor's note)

• School functions where a grade is received

Unexcused Absences: Unexcused absences include, but are not limited to:

• Non-contagious illness

• Injury

• Sports/Extra-curricular functions

• Homework

• Work commitments

• Tardiness

Health Considerations:

• If a member is sick or sent home from school, they should refrain from participating in classes that evening to prevent the spread of illness.

• Contagious illnesses will be excused with a Doctor's note. However, non-contagious illnesses may require the dancer to attend and observe class to stay up-to-date with choreography.

Tardiness:

• Tardiness will not be tolerated. Punctuality is crucial to maintaining a focused and efficient learning environment.

• For every two tardies, the member will receive an unexcused absence.

• If a student is tardy for a performance or competition, it will count towards their allotment of unexcused absences.

Pre-Competition Practice:

• All team members must be present at the last practice before a competition or performance.

• Important information, last-minute corrections, or changes will be communicated during this practice.

• An unexcused absence from the practice before a competition/performance will result in the member not participating in that event.

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and we encourage open communication. Please inform the Dance Team Director or relevant instructor as soon as possible in case of an unavoidable absence.

Hip Hop Dance Competition Attire 

At our dance studio, we want our hip hop dancers to feel comfortable, confident, and ready to showcase their skills. To maintain a professional and cohesive appearance during competitions, we have established the following attire rules for our hip hop dance class participants:

1. Tops:

• Fitted t-shirts or tank tops are recommended for both male and female dancers.

• Crop tops are allowed, but they should not reveal the midriff excessively.

• Tops with inappropriate graphics, slogans, or offensive language are strictly prohibited.

2. Bottoms:

• Loose-fitting dance pants, joggers, leggings, biker shorts or sweatpants are preferred for ease of movement.

• Athletic shorts that allow for a full range of motion are also acceptable.

• Jeans or denim material is not permitted during competitions.

3. Shoes:

• Clean and comfortable dance sneakers or athletic shoes with non-marking soles are mandatory for hip hop performances.

4. Hair and Accessories:

• Hair should be neatly styled and secured away from the face to avoid any distractions during the performance.

• Dancers are encouraged to wear accessories that complement their style but avoid items that may cause injury or interfere with movements.

5. No Costume Jewelry:

• For safety reasons, dancers should refrain from wearing large, dangling, or sharp accessories that could cause harm to themselves or others.

6. Studio Apparel:

• When representing our studio, dancers are encouraged to wear studio-branded apparel or attire with the studio logo during competitions.

7. Team Uniforms:

• If the hip hop dance class participates as a team with specific uniforms, all team members must adhere to the designated dress code.

Costume Policy

We are thrilled to embark on an exciting dance journey with our talented dance team for the 2023-2024 season. As we prepare for performances, competitions, and recitals, please take note of the following costume policy:

Costume Details:

• Each member of the competition teams will wear separate costumes for every routine throughout the season.

• These costumes will be worn at all competitions, extra performances, and the recital.

• The cost of each costume, including costume accessories, is $75 to $115.

Shoes and Tights:

• To ensure a unified and professional appearance on stage, all dance team members must purchase shoes and tights through the studio.

• Each member will receive one pair of body tights  or socks along with their costumes.

Additional Costume Contributions:

• Our costumes are ordered from professional manufacturers. However, some costumes may require adjustments or enhancements.

• In such cases, we may call upon parents to contribute their time and effort to work on costumes, helping to keep costs minimal and within budget.

Additional Shoe Costs:

• Please note that if the instructor deems it necessary to purchase different shoes for a specific routine (e.g., black tap shoes or jazz footies), the cost of these shoes will not be included in the original costume fee.

• The studio will order all shoes to ensure uniformity among the dance team members.

Warm-Up 

Warm-Up Attire:

• Dancers are not permitted to be seen in their competition costumes unless they are on stage performing.

• Warm-ups are mandatory for all dancers and must be worn during rehearsals, off-stage moments, and before and after performances.

Warm-Up Cost:

• Warm-up sets, including both the jacket and pants, can be purchased at the cost of $125.

• These warm-ups are designed to create a cohesive and polished look for our dance team.

Protecting Costumes:

• Wearing warm-ups not only enhances our team's appearance but also provides valuable protection for the competition costumes.

• Warm-ups help prevent costumes from getting stained, spilled on, or damaged during rehearsals and other non-performance situations.

Returning Members:

• Returning dance team members who already own warm-ups from a previous season are not required to make a new purchase.

• However, if returning members wish to update their warm-up design, they have the option to purchase a new set.

Makeup Requirements:

• All female dancers are required to wear "stage" makeup for each performance and competition.

• A uniform makeup look creates continuity within the group and enhances the overall appearance of the performance.

Purchasing Makeup Kits:

• To ensure a consistent and synchronized makeup look, team members are required to purchase a makeup 

Competition Policy

We are excited for the upcoming competition season with our talented dance team. Please review the following important information regarding competitions:

Number of Competitions:

• The Competition Dance team(s) will attend 3 competitions in the Midwest this year.

• We have one back-up competition option in case of a cancellation or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.

Mandatory Attendance:

• All competitions are MANDATORY for team members. Competing is the primary purpose of joining the team.

• Attendance at group award ceremonies is also mandatory for all team members.

Consequences for Non-Attendance:

• It is vital that all team members attend the scheduled competitions.

• Any dancer who does not attend a competition will face consequences, which will be determined at the discretion of the directors.

Competition Scheduling:

• Competitions may take place on Friday-Sunday of a given weekend.

• We ask all team members to keep their entire weekend free for competition events.

Performance Schedule:

• The exact performance times for each routine will be provided to us by the competitions one week before the event.

• We will communicate the schedule to all team members as soon as we receive it.

• Please be prepared to perform at any time, as some competitions may run ahead of schedule.

Competition Scoring:

• Competitions are scored based on points and are subjective.

• Judges typically assess categories such as technique, entertainment value, performance aspect, costume, music choice, age-appropriateness, and skill appropriateness.

• Every dancer will receive recognition on stage, and each routine will be awarded a trophy/ribbon based on its score.

Representation and Behavior:

• Please remember that at competitions, you are representing ICE Studios Dance Team.

• We expect all team members to demonstrate exemplary behavior and show respect for the competition, other dance studios, and themselves.

• Dancers need to be accompanied by their parents or a chaperone until their teacher takes them backstage to prepare for their performance.

Competitions are a fantastic opportunity for our dancers to showcase their talents and hard work. Your dedication, punctuality, and professionalism contribute to a successful and enjoyable competition experience for the entire team.

Accounts Policy:

• Maintaining a good standing on all accounts is essential to continuing to offer this wonderful opportunity to our students.

• Students with a past due balance on their account will not be allowed to audition for any competition team.

Recital Participation:

• All members of the ICE Studios Dance Team will perform in ALL recitals held during the year.

• Additionally, members of each competition team at the studio will have the honor of performing in the Finale of the recitals.

Special Performances:

As representatives of ICE Studios to the community, members of the competition team are highly regarded for their dedication and talent.

• Throughout the year, the dance team are asked to participate in special events such as parades, community events, semi-pro basketball games, and more.

• As a competition member, you are expected to participate in all of these special performances to showcase your skills and support our studio.

We believe that adhering to these policies fosters responsibility, discipline, and unity within our dance team. By working together, we can create a positive and enriching experience for all our students.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding these policies or any other aspect of our dance program, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We are excited to share this incredible journey with you and look forward to witnessing the talent and dedication of our ICE Studios Dance Team in all their performances and special events!

DANCER EXPECTATIONS:

●  Photos/videos of costumes and choreography may not be posted until the end of the competition season. This protects the dancers and choreographers.

●  Dancers will wear their team jacket on stage for every competition awards ceremony.

●  Dancers will not miss more than 3 team rehearsals or classes within the season. Any miss pertaining to school for a grade will be communicated to the directors/teachers with notice and will not count against you. If you are sick, please take the miss and stay home.

●  The last rehearsal before any competition is mandatory. A miss on the last rehearsal before each competition may result in you being pulled from that piece and you will not be guaranteed to be put back in.

●  Dancers need to be able to dance 100% four weeks before any competition (regarding healed injuries). Any injuries need to be communicated to the directors/teachers so we can make a plan based on Doctor’s orders/recommendations.

●  Mini team requirements are a combo class 

●  Classes offered at ICE STUDIOS are expected to be taken at ICE STUDIOS. If there is a class not currently offered, talk to the Artistic Director to see if we can generate enough interest to warrant adding that class. If we are unable to do so, you may take that class elsewhere as a supplement.

●  Dancers may be asked to cover tattoos and piercings for performances. No nail polish allowed.

●  Dancers must use the team make up. See the Competition Team Director for color matches that also work to ensure we look the same on stage.

FINANCIAL EXPECTATIONS AND COMMITMENTS

•   Tuition: Monthly class dues, company is an 8 -month commitment, so tuition will be due Oct through May. Please see your company contract for more information. 

•   Competition/Convention fees throughout the competition year. THIS YEAR: 3 competitions plus 1 convention.

•   Costumes per dance. These will be worn at every competition and at our year end recital. Our competition costume prices may vary as from $75-$200. Under all circumstances, I try and keep the cost down to the minimum possible. We have even recycled costumes and we have bought used costumes whenever possible. Sometimes this can’t be avoided and a custom costume will have to be made, but a budget will be put into place.  

•   Make up/Accessories/Shoes: These items may or may not have to be purchased for the competition season. A list of items that will be needed will be handed out for each dance for competition. These items will also be worn all year

COMPETITION TEAM REQUIREMENTS:

• Competes locally, regionally, or nationally (varies from year to year).
  
  

• Attends one convention in a season
  
  

• Performs in ICE STUDIOS Christmas shows, community events, and recitals.
  
  

• Technique classes are required for each level (set by staff) to support the competition pieces.
  
  

• All in-house workshops and master guest teachers are mandatory, unless otherwise stated.
  
  

COMMUNICATION

We are available to you. We want to give exceptional service to both our dancers and their families, but in order to maintain the highest level of support, we have established certain standards for studio contact.

• All non-urgent topics should be sent to icestudiosdance@gmail.com so that we can promptly respond to everyone's inquiries, concerns, and requests. 

• Calls and text messages should be reserved for emergencies only.

• Please be conscious of the time while phoning or sending text messages; if you need help outside of business hours or on Sundays, please submit any contact through email.

Once you are placed in routines, there is no “OPTING OUT”.  

Please note: The choreographers/directors/teachers will place you in routines/genres that you are best suited for. Not everyone will be used in every number. We need a mix of large and small groups.

Being a member of the ICE STUDIOS  team should be your top priority among all extra-­curricular activities. We expect rehearsals and competitions to take precedence over your other extra-­curricular activities.

If you cannot make that commitment, please reconsider. being on the team.

All choreography set for Dance Unlimited remains the property of ICE STUDIOS and the choreographer

WITHDRAWAL/DISMISSAL:

The ICE STUDIOS Competition Team requires a one-dance commitment from auditions to recital and/or Nationals 2024. If, for any reason, your dancer is unable to fulfill their commitment, you will not be reimbursed for any fees already paid, and you will be responsible for the rest of the year financially. This includes but is not limited to costumes, choreography fees, and/or entry fees. You may not be allowed to re-audition for the following season.

Costumes remain the property of Ice Studios until the end of the season. If you are dismissed, your costume may be used to have another dancer step in. It will be returned to you at the end of the season.

Team Levels, Auditions & Placement: 

•  Junior 9-11, 

• Teen 12-14, 

• Senior 15-19,