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How to know if you and your child is ready for compeition team. 

• Is your dancer open to trying new styles of dance like jazz, lyrical, contemporary, ballet, modern, acro, hip hop, musical theatre and so on to help them become unicorns of dance?  Like a chameleon in all styles?

• Is your dancer ready for the lights, camera, and action of large crowds?

• Is your dancer eager to learn from other teachers on convention circuits? 

• Is your dancer motivated enough to practice, stretch, and work on their technique at home? 

• Is your dancer ready to be a team player?  To help other dancers, show up to mandatory rehearsals, and put in extra work for the sake of a team? 

• Does your dancer have the physical stamina, focus, and the attention span for long rehearsals with a lot of repetition? 

• Is your dancer ready to trust the process, hear a lot of corrections about their technique and ready to apply those corrections to help further their confidence?

• Is your dancer ready to be happy for the opportunity to dance, even when competition results don't go the way they'd like?

• Is your dancer ready to still push and be motivated when they are given a lot of praise and awards for their hard work?

• Is your dancer ready to go through a placement and/or audition process confidently where there is added pressure?  We do this so we know they are ready for the big competition stage. 

• Are you and your dancer ready for more hours at the studio?  It will often become their home away from home. 

• Are you and your dancer ready for more of a financial commitment?  Between extra costumes, competition fees, convention/workshop fees, and accessories and props, it begin to add up and if you aren't prepared for that, those given opportunities are often met with hostility instead of gratefulness. 

ICE Studios Dance Team Class Policy

At ICE Studios, we are committed to providing our Competition Team members with the best possible dance education and training. To enhance their skills and growth as dancers, we have established the following class policy:

Class Recommendations:

• It is highly recommended for all Competition Team members to take one regular class at the studio during the dance year, in addition to their competition class.

• The following classes are highly recommended for our Competition Team members:

  • Tap

  • Jazz

  • Tumbling

  • Ballet/Lyrical

Benefits of Additional Classes:

• Regular classes offer a diverse dance education, exposing dancers to various styles, techniques, and choreography.

• Tap and Jazz classes focus on precision, musicality, and dynamic movements, which are essential for developing well-rounded dancers.

• Tumbling classes enhance agility, flexibility, and acrobatic skills, adding an exciting element to dance performances.

• Ballet/Lyrical classes provide a strong technical foundation, fostering grace, poise, and emotional expression in dance.

Attendance Expectations:

• Attendance is of utmost importance and is required for all classes.

• Consistent attendance demonstrates commitment and dedication to the dance team, allowing dancers to progress effectively and achieve their full potential.

• If a team member is unable to attend a class, we appreciate being informed in advance, whenever possible.

We understand that our Competition Team members have busy schedules, but participating in additional classes can significantly contribute to their growth and success as dancers. It is our goal to support their dance journey and help them reach new heights in their artistic and technical abilities.

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 two 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.

FUNDRAISER:

Competition team members only will be eligible to participate in a fundraiser in the fall. All profit earned will be credited to each

student’s individual account. This credit will be deducted from the following month(s)’s automatic payment amount.

• 2023–2024 Tenative Fundraiser Schedule:
  
  

  1. October Calendar Sponsor (Studio will provide literature)
     
     

  2. Nov.: Skating Party concession stand (Parents provide the snacks to sell)
     
     

  3. Dec. Christmas Dinner (Parents Plan)
     
     

  4. Feb. Trashbags/Popcorn: Online
     
     

  5. Football/Baseball games/Concerts: All year around
     
     

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 Activities: 

• 1 to 2 DAY OF DANCE PER WEEK- 

• Conditioning Training 

• STUDENTS WILL PARTICIPATE IN 2 or 3 REGIONAL DANCE COMPETITIONS.

• STUDENTS WILL PARTICIPATE IN at least one local dance convention as a team

• TEAM Fundraisers

• TEAM Social events

• In house workshops

Team Levels, Auditions & Placement: 

•  Petite 5 to 8 

•  Junior 9-11, 

• Teen 12-14, 

• Senior 15-19,