Dance Newsletter #3

Knowing how to present yourself is perhaps the most important aspect of your career.  You are settled in with your training which, by the way, never stops. Before you contact an agent, start to look at what to do to make yourself marketable in this industry.  The “look” is very important in Los Angeles.  Take notice of dancers who work a lot and how they have developed a look that sells.  Experiment with different ways of presenting yourself.  This may mean going for a different hairstyle for example.  Be an individual.  Find something to be comfortable with.

Things you must have

• A good photo in color.  For dance, just one good body shot is all you need for now.
• Resume with training clearly shown at the bottom and performing experience above.
• Some  basic dance audition clothes.  Also some character accessories, always kept in your car.
• All types of dance shoes.  (in your car) and knee pads.
• A positive attitude and lots of energy

After you have your package together.  Time to get started. 
One of the “must do” on your list is to get an Agent.  Dance agent that is.

Here we go ……….
First, get a list of all the dance agents in town.  You can get a list from SAG or Aftra. Also Dancers’ Alliance has a very good and informative web page about many things you should know.  There’s more of a grapevine in New York so simply ask other dancers at the studios.  That is a good source on both sides of the coast.

Maybe a friend is with an Agent they like.  Start by calling their office to find out when they are holding auditions. Contact as many as you can.  Each Agency handles their client search differently.  Very often they will come and watch a certain class.  If so, be sure to find out when that teacher has classes.  Then you should check it out so that you are familiar with their style.

Always have a picture with resume attached to the back.  This is your calling card.  Never go anywhere without it.

O.K/  You have nailed the audition.  Now they will want you to have an interview with them.  VERY IMPORTANT.  Be outgoing but not overbearing, confident and pleasant. Be clear about your ideas on your career.

If they Sign you, you will be given some instructions on what they expect of you.  Also give you a list of photographers they recommend. 

Born in England, Maureen Creigh began her professional career as a dancer/actor/singer in London, appearing in musicals, television, repertory and film.  After owning her dance studio in Connecticut for seven years, she became a teacher at Luigi's Dance Center in New York City.  She was invited to give master classes and guest teach at major dance studios and colleges in Europe and the United States on the East and West Coast.

Need some assistance, Ms Creigh is available for private coaching and consultation. Give her call 818 769-6316

Maureen has directed and choreographed productions in the U.S. and Europe.  Credits include works for Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Opera House, Cologne, the New Theater, London and Adelaine Genee Theater, Surrey, England, among others.  She has been a segment producer for the American Choreography Awards in Los Angeles.  Ms.  Creigh is a graduate of the Royal Academy of Dance and Bush-Davies Dance School.  As an actor, she studied at London Academy of Music and Art (LAMDA) and also had formal voice training.

Maureen has been a personal manager for 19 years representing dancers, singers and actors for Television, Film and Stage.  She is often in demand as a performance coach and to conduct her seminars throughout the U.S. Her office is located in Los Angeles.