Navigating Your NYCDA Weekend:
Maximize Confidence and Learning!

Joining us in an upcoming city near you? Convention weekends are much more than just competitions and awards– they provide a unique opportunity for dancers to immerse themselves in a world of learning, growth, and community. Whether you're a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, here's how you can make the best of your convention weekend experience, focusing on personal development, learning, and building valuable connections.

Preparation is key to making the most of your convention weekend. Pack enough clothes and layers that will take you through lots of different classes and from warm-up all the way through to your final class of the day. Keep the welcome guide you will receive in your inbox before arriving as a handy resource before and during the weekend. Research the teachers you will meet ahead of time so you will know what you might expect from their class. We've got great faculty interviews on our website and social media channels that we update regularly.

One of the most significant benefits of convention weekends is the opportunity to receive feedback from renowned instructors. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as a chance for personal growth. Every correction is a step towards becoming a better dancer.

Convention workshops can be crowded and bustling with new faces. To stay focused, find a spot where you can see the instructor clearly and be attentive. Remember that you're not in competition mode; you're here to learn and improve. Don't get discouraged by the number of dancers around you or if they appear to be dancing at a higher level than you. Work hard and stay humble.

Use your time during convention weekend to connect with your peers and instructors. Dancers come from all over, and building these networks can open up doors for collaboration and mentorship. Attendees often form lasting friendships and professional connections. Hype up others the way you want to be encouraged! Clap for each other, and give one of our Inspired Bracelets to someone who inspires you. Not only does it create a positive and supportive NYCDA community, but all of the proceeds from your purchase go right back to the New York City Dance Alliance Foundation to offer high school juniors and seniors scholarships to pursue dance in college!

Each weekend, Joe leads a thoughtful and informative Parent’s Chat designed to guide you through the landscape of your dancer's training journey. It’s a chance to step back from the overwhelm of trying to do it all, and instead, focus on what truly matters—your dancer’s growth, goal-setting, and discipline. Whether you're looking to understand the path to college or how to set your dancer up for success in all aspects of their training, this chat offers a supportive space to navigate the exciting and sometimes challenging road ahead. Let’s focus on creating a bright, fulfilling future for your dancer together!

Convention weekends typically offer a wide range of dance disciplines. While you may have your favorites, don't shy away from trying something new. Exploring various styles will expand your skill set and make you a more versatile dancer.

NYCDA awards over $1M in training scholarships each year to attendees. These scholarships to train at our partner programs Steps on Broadway, Ballets Jazz Montreal, Ballet Hispanico, Bodytraffic, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance, Chicago, Parsons Dance, Peridance, and Perry Mansfield Performing Arts School are not just for the winners but for dancers who show dedication and potential. Attend auditions and workshops with enthusiasm, and you might just earn a scholarship to further your training.

Dance can be physically and mentally demanding. Remember to prioritize self-care during your convention weekend. Get enough rest, stay hydrated, and eat healthily. Taking care of your well-being is essential for making the most of your experience.

While awards and recognition are nice, remember that the true essence of dance lies in the journey itself. Convention weekends are about personal growth, learning, and the joy of dance. Take advantage of every moment, from the classes to the performances, and take pride in your progress.

At NYCDA, there's an abundance of opportunities to grow as a dancer and as an individual so get in class and remember that the true prize is the knowledge and experience you gain. See you on the road!