Expert: treivilo - 11/5/2011

Question
My daughters ballet studio is putting on a in house concert at the end of the year, the studio has it's own stage but will be charging an entry fee.  The production is Wizard of OZ and there are allot of costume changes, however they have decided not to have a dress rehearsal.  I am helping dress the children but I am worried that it will be a disaster waiting to happen. Is not having a dress rehearsal going to be a problem? Is it usual practice? Should I speak out about my concerns?

Answer
Hello Kerryn,

I do not know in the USA but, in France, a Dress Rehearsal (so called an Italian Rehearsal) always occurs before a performance. Actually, there are several dress rehearsal ; Some are held at the dance school, others at the theatre, on stage.

In any case, I consider this as an absolute prerequisite to a performance, it is the only way to let the performer "feel" their costume and the way they'll move in them.

You should speak to your daughter's teachers and explain them how afraid you are that your daughter may feel uncomfortable if she has not danced in her dress before. You can also explain here that your girls can gain (or loose) weight and height (not loose there BTW) in a question of days and not having a correctly fitted costume is dangerous.

I hope I have helped you ; in any case, please followup if you need any more information

Olivier