Kirkwood Competition Expectations

Whether this is your first time on stage or your tenth season competing, these expectations apply to everyone. This is how we show up as Kirkwood.

1. Be Early. Be Ready.

Arrive with plenty of time to check in, warm up, and prepare properly.
 Pack everything you need – costumes, tights, hair supplies, makeup, safety pins, snacks, water. Have backups. Always.

2. Kindness Is Non-Negotiable.

Be respectful to judges, event staff, volunteers, and dancers from every studio.
 Applaud for everyone. We support great dancing – period.

3. Backstage Is a Focus Zone.

Keep voices low and energy calm.
 Be aware of space – costumes, props, and other dancers preparing.
 This is not a hangout room.

4. Own the Stage.

Walk on with confidence. Exit with control.
 Hold your ending pose. Acknowledge the audience. No rushing offstage.

5. Presentation Matters.

Costumes must be competition-ready and fit properly.
 Hair and makeup should be neat, secure, and performance appropriate.
 We look polished because we are prepared.

6. Sportsmanship Is Everything.

You will not win every time. That is normal.
 Handle awards with maturity and grace – whether you place first or not at all.
 Growth matters more than trophies.

7. Know the Rules.

Time limits, music guidelines, costume requirements – they all matter.
 If you’re unsure about something, ask before it becomes a problem.

8. Phones Down.

Competition days go quickly. Stay present.
 No filming or photographing other dancers without permission.

9. Feedback = Growth.

Judges’ critiques are tools. Listen. Reflect. Improve.
 Strong dancers seek growth, not just scores.

10. Leave It Better.

Keep your area clean.
 Thank volunteers and staff.
 Represent Kirkwood with professionalism from start to finish.

Kirkwood dancers are known for their work ethic, their support of one another, and their professionalism. That reputation is built on how you behave just as much as how you dance.

Let’s protect it.