ROCK-ETTES
Information you NEED TO KNOW!
….so you want to be a member of “ROCK-ETTES”, a performing group representing Round Rock Repertory Dance Centre, and the community of Round Rock, TX?
GOOD FOR YOU!! NOW READ ON…
2009-2010 team!
In 1993 the first performing/competition group was selected. The goal was to establish an ensemble of dancers who loved the challenge of intricate choreography and could perform it with confidence, grace and well-developed technique. These dancers also represented the high standards RRRDC maintains by being courteous, happy, and confident young people.
The original artists not only met these challenges of that first year, but also set the stage for the future. The “ROCK-ETTES” have received amazing recognition for their performances and choreography at both regional and national competition levels. Now under the direction of Sarah Acker and assisted by Julie Klein the “ROCK-ETTES” are provided with numerous opportunities that enhance the studies of the more serious dancer.
There are many opportunities as well as obligations in being a “ROCK-ETTES”. Please think long and hard about your decision to audition. A lot of commitment is involved from July-June. It is also a lot of fun and a very special experience!
Dance is an incredible art form. It should never be considered a competitive activity. Each dancer is unique and must convey her/his art through their body. Choreography is personal—it comes from within. Therefore, our ultimate goal for this group is not to “win” in a competitive situation, but to do what it takes to achieve the goal of dancing and performing at our very ultimate peak.
WHO CAN BE A “ROCK-ETTE”?
Any dancer currently enrolled at RRRDC who will be age 10 by June 30, 2010.
HOW CAN I BE A “ROCK-ETTE”?
By being selected at the open audition on Friday, May 20th.
(Look for times in this flyer).
HOW GOOD OF A DANCER DO I NEED TO BE?
VERY GOOD!! Performing ensemble members must perform with a high level of energy and an extremely high level of dance technique. (Levels III-V recommended). The group includes all styles of dance in their repertoire. It is to your benefit to be a strong dancer in ballet, jazz, tap, musical theater and lyrical. Although many dancers at Level III-V are discovering their forté may lie in on particular style, the “well-rounded” dancer will have more opportunities to perform in more pieces.
Opportunities:
- Two-three dance competitions/convention.
- Convention/workshops with world renowned instructors—scholarship opportunities.
- Nutcracker Lecture-Demonstrations.
- Work with International choreographers.
- Zilker Park Trail of Lights.
Obligations:
FINANCIAL: Cost is $1,320.00, July 2010-June 2011 ($110.00/monthly). Fees cover competition costs, costumes, props, choreographer’s fees, and "ROCK-ETTES" jacket. A group warm-up/travel suit will be provided as well. The cost will be split between the member fees and independent “ROCK-ETTES” expense. Tights, shoes, body stockings are at the “ROCK-ETTES” expense. Some costumes remain property of RRRDC and are recycled for future dances. One or two dance workshops and conventions are scheduled for the year. These fees (workshop tuition and hotel) are also the responsibility of the “ROCK-ETTE”. If guest artists are brought in throughout the year for master classes, all “ROCK-ETTES” are required to attend and will be responsible for any fees that accompany the visit.
TIME COMMITMENT: Weekly schedules for rehearsals, performances and competitions are provided for each group member. Rehearsals to set choreography are included in this schedule; however the choreographer can initiate extra rehearsals.
2010-2011 rehearsals will be held on Thursday evenings, 7:30-9:00 p.m. This does not necessarily mean each dancer will be rehearsing every Thursday. Only those days a particular piece is being worked. Two-three times a month, rehearsals will be scheduled on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon and will be announced in the rehearsal schedule.
CLASSES: Each group member is required to take a minimum of 2 ballet, 1 tap, and 1 jazz class/week for a total minimum of 4 hours/week of technique classes. Ensemble members can take additional classes per week at no additional charge (!!), but must be committed to these classes. Therefore, fifth+ classes are free. Tuition is adjusted to the total hours taken for the first four classes ($115.00/month).
SUMMER ATTENDANCE: Group members are required to take at least one technique class during the summer. It’s important to keep your technique in top form! This would also be a great time to get a little extra experience in the style of dance you feel least comfortable with.
TWO WEEK SUMMER INTENSIVE: Two weeks end of July/beginning of August to dance together and begin learning choreography.
CODE OF CONDUCT: As part of a select ensemble from RRRDC, exceptional behavior is expected and required of all “ROCK-ETTES”. Such behavior includes respect for the directors, RRRDC staff, fellow group members and other studio dancers, and other group parents. The "ROCK-ETTES" handbook details measures to be taken regarding a lack of exemplary behavior.
Dance together to be toGether!
Those selected for the 2010-2011 troupe spend 1 day at Ms. Julie’s house eating, relaxing and getting to know each other.
Goals, expectations and guidelines for the new year are also established by the members (it is TRULY A GROUP EFFORT.) Dates for this get together will be announced at a later time.
Parents:
Parents play a huge role in the success of a harmonious group. Two designated parents attend each trip as chaperones helping with transportation and food. They also coordinate the trophy/flowers fund-raiser for the spring concert.
Auditions:
Friday, May 20:
5:00-5:30—meeting
5:30-7:00—group audition
7:00-8:30—individual audition
8:30-9:00—written interview
REGISTRATION IS 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO AUDITION TIMES. THERE WILL BE A BRIEF MEETING BEFORE THE AUDITION FOR DANCERS.
Auditions in ballet, jazz and tap will be held class style (barre, center work, and progressions across the floor). Those auditioning must also prepare a 1:30-2:00 minute piece of choreography for an individual audition. Dancers can select any style. Choreography can even be a part of their recital dance! Dancers must also supply a cued, cassette tape or CD with their music.
Auditions will be closed (no observers). If you don’t dance all three, TRY! Wear the proper shoes and dress for an audition (solid leotard, suntan or dark tights)! Selection panel will be non-associates of RRRDC. You will be chosen by your talent, technique, written interview, stage presence, attitude, energy, dedication and the desire to perform. You will be a showcase of the highest level representing each dancer, parent and instructor of RRRDC. We look forward to seeing you at the auditions!
If you have any questions please see Julie Roper.
Dancers will be notified by mail of their acceptance into the "ROCK-ETTES".
GOOD LUCK!