Fusion Dance Company 2011-2012
Info Packet

Our Mission….

Our mission is to offer professional dance training in all genres of dance to young, aspiring dancers.
We strive to offer frequent and abundant opportunities that will enhance their dance knowledge and training. We will work as mentors to dancers and nurture them in a positive learning environment. We
will provide ample opportunities for all dancers to perform and compete with dance as an art form.

Fusion Dance Company Goals and Purpose

The main objective to Fusion Dance Company is to give dancers who want to take dance to the next level the training, guidance and opportunities to do so. The Company program is designed to encourage individual progress through their dance education, providing sound technical training and numerous performing opportunities. The Company also serves as a guide for older dancers on their
path toward a professional dance-related career or college. We will achieve these goals by requiring that each dancer trains in weekly technique classes and rehearsals, participates in local
performances, attends professional dance conventions and maintains a passion and love for the art
of dance!

FUSION Dance Company GOALS
• To perform and compete representing HYPE Dance Studio
• To share our passion for dance with our community
• To achieve excellence at competitions and conventions
• To display superior dance technique, style, and stage presence at all events
• To be dedicated to weekly training
• To work hard, be dedicated, and fulfill all commitments
• To maintain our skills and improve them throughout the year
• To be good role models and set good examples for all dancers
• To have fun and enjoy every moment of our season!

Fusion Dance Company is now beginning its 9th year!

 
Fusion Faculty Mission and Purpose:

We understand that each child possesses their own passion, and believe whole-heartedly that all should be offered the opportunity to express it. Each child / young adult also has different learning abilities and progress on different timelines. Fusion Faculty is absolutely committed to understanding these differences and will work with every child individually to help them progress, regardless of their learning style. Additionally, some students are born with certain favorable or ideal physical or anatomical body characteristics, such as turn-out, hyper-mobility in joints, flexibility, musicality, etc. Although these characteristics are certainly a bonus, they do not make an automatic professional dancer. Dancers turn professional when they can emotionally affect an audience through movement. This is the goal for all our students, regardless of their long-term dancing goals. We believe that dance is a journey, and are dedicated to guide each dancer through this journey with encouragement. We will provide excellent instruction and strive to give all dancers positive inspiration as they continue
on their journey through dance. We are here to pass on our enthusiasm!

Creative Director, Master Teacher Sarah Blakley
Tap, Jazz Tana Barndollar
Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop Carley Brochheuser
Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop Joi Fletcher
Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop Sarah Gambone
Ballet Bruce King
Pilates Miranda McGovern
Master Classes Guest Teachers

The Program
Fusion Dance Company exists to provide accelerated training to dancers who desire it. It also presents numerous opportunities so that dancers may take this training as far as they’d like to. Every dancer in Fusion Dance Company will have options...and most importantly, opportunity. Everyone has the ability to excel, and everyone has the opportunity to make it happen! Fusion Dance Company is one cohesive family of dancers comprised of different styles and ages. The Company as a whole offers training and choreography in jazz, hip hop, tap, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, jazz funk, improvisation and more. As many dancers choose to study all genres of the program, dancers may also choose to specialize in one or two. Although we believe training in all styles is valuable, we also appreciate those who desire a smaller time and/or financial commitment. It is our goal to offer this amazing training opportunity to all dancers at multiple levels of involvement.

Company Dancers – ages 8-18. Dancers may train and perform in the following:
o Jazz Training – ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary and improvisation.
o Hip Hop Training –all styles of hip hop.
o Tap Training – various styles of tap.

Mini Dancers – ages 6-8. For dancers interested in starting their accelerated training and gaining
performance experience. They will specialize in all styles of dance to promote well-rounded dance training, knowledge and experience. (Please see Mini Fusion Packet.)

• The Company will offer Technique Classes required for all dancers. Dancers may move up in any of their technique classes, at any time of year, based on the instructor’s approval if they are excelling in that technique. This is designed specifically so that all dancers may be challenged and may
progress beyond their current level. If a dancer wishes to improve and try to challenge themselves
in a more difficult class, we encourage it! We want them to improve! So with the instructor’s permission, they may take additional, more difficult technique classes.
• We will also offer Master Classes that dancers may choose to take. Master classes will be optional and taught at a faster pace where dancers quickly learn choreography, designed to challenge even our most technical dancers. Master Classes are an open opportunity for everyone to help themselves progress in training each week. They will be taught by selected faculty members and guest choreographers brought to HYPE Dance Studio from outside the area. (See specifics on Master Classes below.)
• Rehearsal Classes will be strictly for learning and rehearsing choreography. These classes will give the
choreographers the required time to work on their dance. Once a routine is completed, new routines being taught will take the place of that time slot. As time progresses, the Company’s “Rehearsal Time Block” each week may be used to rehearse numerous dances that may need to prepare for performances or competitions. Schedules will change and be updated monthly.
• Subsequently, dancers who may progress through technique classes, excel in any Master Classes, and show overall progress may be invited to dance in more difficult routines, styles, etc. The Company also provides more routine invitations to dancers of all levels, as long as they are showing progress. This entire program is designed so that dancers do not have to remain in one level the entire year…the opportunity to progress is open and we’d love nothing more for them if that’s what they want! We encourage growth for everyone!
Training Fusion Dance Company provides excellent dance training for all its members. The weekly training program has been carefully developed by the director and faculty to offer a progressive curriculum. All technique classes and levels have standards and markers so that we may keep the Company progressing as a whole. Dancers are expected to participate fully in each class to receive all of the benefits of this training. It is our mission to provide the best technical, progressive, positive training available, and we strive for nothing less.

Technique classes (Jazz)
• In the beginning of the season dancers will be placed in technique classes based on their audition
• Technique classes will focus on technique only and not choreography of routines, as some dancers may be in the same technique class and different routines.
• Dancers may move up in technique with instructor’s permission
• Dancers may take multiple technique class with instructor’s permission

Rehearsal Classes
• Choreography of routines will be taught to dancers invited to be in each dance.
• Dancers in that routine are required to attend all rehearsal classes so that choreography may progress.
• Rehearsals will be scheduled at the time of Routine Invitations and for each semester and dancers must have this time available upon accepting the invitation.
• Rehearsal class schedule will be announced every 4 weeks to give notice of any updates.

Master Classes (Jazz / Contemporary / Progressions)
• Master Classes will be optional each week and open to all dancers at the studio.
• They are geared towards advanced levels and have a minimum age of 11 years old, unless permission from instructor is given.
• Dancers will need to sign up for each week’s master class on a first-come-first-serve basis. If the class becomes full, a possible additional master class will be added that week.
• If a dancer is taking unlimited classes, they will not be charged for the Master Class taught by an HDS  Faculty member.
• If a Guest Choreographer is teaching, a fee may be charged to all dancers attending. FDC members will have a discounted fee due to their monthly tuition payment covers part of this fee.
• JAZZ Master Classes were designed to offer the additional technique class for the dancer who wants to grow. We encourage the challenge to all who would like to develop their skills. This was also created so that dancers can enjoy an adoring, expressive dance experience each week where they can have fun!

Master Classes (Hip Hop)
• Each week, hip hop dancers will be required to take a Master Hip Hop class.
• They will be offered at different levels for company members.
• This class will focus on short pieces of choreography where dancers can gain better knowledge and training in all styles of hip hop. This gives them the opportunity to practice more than what their routines may include, so that their overall training is progressive. Each week may present itself with new things!

The Routines
Part of a company dancer’s training is the experience they have with performing and competing. It is essential that they practice at the pace of Company training, and then gain the rewards of using it. Dancers that have
experience in performing and competing with their craft become well-seasoned dancers. More importantly, it is
a vital part of their growth, self-esteem and confidence as a dancer.

All company dancers will be invited to the following routines:
• Initial group routines (first competition pieces).
• Routines for FDC 2010 Student Choreography Showcase (see details below).
• A company production
• Additional competition routines.
• Additional performance routines – for HYPE Productions including Holiday Show and HYPErbole 2011.

Group Routines – 1st round invites will be based on auditions and dancers will be placed in groups to learn choreography. Additional performance and competition invites will occur prior to Holiday Break. Choreographers put groups together based on dancers’ ability to interpret the choreography, skill level and potential cohesiveness of each group. Group routines will perform and compete, and will rehearse during the weekly rehearsal time block. Each Routine Invitation will have its rehearsal dates specified.

Production Routines – designed to offer dancers the experience of a piece with large amount of dancers, styles and choreographed sections. Production dances are an exciting element to the dancer’s season, where they get the chance to dance next to all company members and be a part of
something big! A production dance can have a huge impact on its audience due to the large amount of dancers, and it also gives the choreographers the chance to be very creative.

Performance Routines – this year dancers may choose to be a part of the initial group routines to perform, but not compete with, as their performance routines. We will use these pieces for local performances in our community. NOTE: certain performances like the KINGS Halftime Show may be either a “Performance Routine” or a “Company Production.” When routines are announced, the performances will be specified.

Solos – Dancers excelling in training and performance ability may request or be invited to perform a solo. Dancers must possess the skills, stage presence, emotion, and the overall performance by themselves on the stage as a soloist dancer. Due to the limited opportunities for solos to compete, FDC will offer a limited amount of solos each year.

Duos / Trios / Small Groups – During the season, the faculty may be inspired to choreograph any one of these. Dancers may request to have a duo/trio/small group, and sometimes the faculty is simply inspired by the dancers to create something. (see ARRF section for requests)

Routine Invitations:
Routine invitations will be given out as they are created. Included will be costume prices, performances and/or competitions that apply, and rehearsal times for that routine. At this time, dancers may accept or decline any routine invitation.

Options:
Dancers may be on Fusion Dance Company and choose their level of involvement. They may choose to participate in every optional opportunity, including master classes and all routine invitations. They may also choose to take the required technique classes and participate in certain routines, not all of them. For example,
they may choose to dance in the “Performance Routine”, to perform locally but doesn’t include the commitment
and costs of competition fees. They will still receive the accelerated training of the Company program and progress as a dancer. They just won’t have to commit to every single routine going through the company. (See required routines to help determine your level of financial and time commitment). Alternatively, dancers may choose to take every opportunity made available.

Class Requirements (Per Week):
Jazz: 2 ballet classes, 1 jazz technique class + any rehearsals
Hip Hop: 1 hip hop Master Class + any rehearsals
Tap: 1 tap technique class per week + any rehearsals
Minis: 1 ballet class, 1 tap, 1 hip hop class, 1 jazz class (see Mini’s schedule)

Optional Classes: Dancers have the option to take extra classes each week. This is an open opportunity for
all dancers to improve and continue their training. Optional Classes include: Master Jazz/Progressions Class, additional company technique classes and ballet classes, any additional studio classes offered, including Master Classes with guest choreographers.

Additional Rehearsals: Sometimes it is necessary to call additional rehearsals outside of the weekly rehearsal classes to prepare dancers for a piece. This may be due to a performance or competition approaching where the choreographer needs to meet with the dancers. All rehearsals must be approved by
the director and will be carefully considered when adding to the schedule. We realize families have many things going on during the year (especially weekends) and we are receptive to that.

Overall:
- Dancers will be placed in technique classes, as required by company members
- Dancers will be invited to initial routines, FDC 2011 Student Choreography routines, a production routine, etc.
- Dancers may be invited to participated in more dances throughout the season
- Dancers have the option to accept or decline any invitation
- Dancers will attend rehearsals for their dances, and rehearsal schedules will be updated every 4 weeks.
- Dancers will commit to rehearsals upon acceptance of Routine Invitations
- Rehearsal schedule, costume price and competition events will be announced at the time of each routine invitation.

Rehearsal and Class Attire:
• Ballet: Pink ballet tights, black leotard, hair pulled back off neck and face in BALLET BUN with
headband or bobby pins for bangs. Pink ballet shoes required. Ballet warm-ups OK until instructor asks dancer to remove them. No t-shirts or tanks allowed. SEE BALLET PROGRAM PACKET.
• Jazz: form-fitting dance clothing - jazz shorts, pants or capris, tights, leotards, tanks OK. No baggy clothing. Hair must be pulled back with headband or clips for bangs. Jazz shoes are required. Jazz dancers are required to wear form-fitting dance clothing that allows for movement and visibility of movement. Instructors may permit different shoes or no shoes for contemporary or lyrical, but this at instructor’s approval only.
• Hip Hop: Stretchy, comfortable dance or “work-out” clothing. Pants, shorts, tanks, T-shirts OK. No “school clothes”, jeans, jean shorts, or restrictive clothing. Flexible sneakers required. Hair must be pulled back and off face. No hats in class please.
• Tap: same as jazz. Black tap shoes required.

Please Note: suggested shoes will be announced for purchasing immediately after auditions.

FDC 2011 Student Choreography Showcase:
For all FDC members. We are so very excited to bring such a fantastic opportunity to our Fusion Dance Company again this fall! The production of our Annual Student Choreography Showcase will be entirely run by our Fusion Dance Company along with the guidance of The Director. All accepting participants will agree and work toward the same goals: working together to create a wonderful student production that we can share with our community! This project has been created for our quickly-evolving dance company, so that they may gain the experiences of putting on such an event. (The program in full will be discussed at the parent meeting held on Monday, July 25.)

FDC Placement Audition:
Each year dancers must audition for a space in Fusion Dance Company. The auditions are free, and there are different sections relating to each style. The purpose of the audition is to accept dancers into FDC 2011-2012, and for placement / casting in to technique classes and initial group routines. Dancers who want to perform, train and compete with jazz (and its related styles) must attend the Jazz Audition. This includes ballet, lyrical, and a jazz combination. Dancers who want to perform, train and compete in hip hop must attend the Hip Hop Audition, which includes tricks/skills and a hip hop combination. Dancers wanting to perform and compete in tap must attend upper level tap classes III and/or IV to be placed in the correct tap class (which provides the opportunity to be invited to our competition tap piece. See Tap Flyer). Minis have a separate audition (See Mini Info Packet). All auditions are kept positive and encouraging. We do ask that dancers come prepared focused and attentive. No talking is allowed during auditions. Dancers should wear the appropriate attire and shoes for each style (refer to Class Attire). Dancers are scored on technique and performance ability. After the audition, a cast list with each dancer’s number will be posted. These results announce the members of FDC 2011-2012. All dancers will be evaluated and grouped according to the ability of the dancer and the artistic vision of the director and choreographers.

Casting:
All FDC dancers are cast into different pieces and are all a part of one big company. We promote training as the main focus for dancers at this stage of their lives, which in turn gives them a greater appreciation for dance as an art form. Competition is fun; it motivates dancers to achieve higher standards. However, no matter the event…competition or not…dance is always a performance. We are here to offer this wonderful opportunity to all of them. Casting for routines will be based on the choreographer’s and director’s vision for each piece. Dancers
must possess the necessary skills (or potential to have those skills) that each routine requires. We whole- heartedly believe that all dancers are worthy of this opportunity, so there will be routines and parts for every company dancer. Just like in all activities, there are different levels of difficulty and skill. And just like in all areas of life, we must put the work in to achieve them. Sense of entitlement can break a dancer’s spirit, and it is our job to help them understand that growth comes from education and training.

Code of Conduct, Parents:
• Support all dancers, even those not related to you.
• No negative comments to or about any dancer or parent are tolerated. Comments taken out of context can snowball into damaging and hurtful arguments between parents, dancers and faculty.
• No negative comments about other dance organizations or studios.
• Please refrain from giving critique to dancers from the “sidelines”. Have a great time watching your children grow and learn! Remember that every parent wants their children to be the best they can be, even though we know that along with the successes there will be failures. We believe in helping the dancers grow in a positive way from all their experiences.
• Always give only positive feedback to dancers after they perform. This lets them be proud of their performance…please leave the corrections to the highly trained staff.
• Notify Sarah immediately of unavoidable schedule conflicts. This is extremely important so that any necessary adjustments can be made. This includes restaging, changing music and choreography.
• Stress, tension, and inappropriate language or behavior backstage can truly affect every dancer, parent and staff member. Please remember to keep all issues outside of this environment so that dancers may have positive motivation while dancing.
• Please do not approach another child with any critique, any problems/concerns, or gossip. Every parent may deal directly with their child. In keeping the “Fusion Family” spirit alive, we all need to do our best to be supportive and positive.
• Dancing on Fusion Dance Company is a commitment, one that lasts for most of the year.
Schedule conflicts, dancer burn-out, and parent burn-out can be avoided by understanding the commitment up front, and also remaining supportive and positive about all involved.

Dancers Code of Conduct:
• Have Fun!!
• Respect all team members and instructors.
• NO TALKING in rehearsals or class. You are role models at the studio; therefore you set the precedence for ALL other dancers.
• Dress code is strictly enforced.
• No gossiping. No negative comments to or about anyone.
• Always come to classes and rehearsals prepared. Your “work ethic” will determine you as a dancer!
• Always give 100% effort. This is called “heart”. This will pay off in the end.
• No sitting down in class or rehearsal, unless authorized by your instructor. Even if you are not dancing during a particular sequence, you should be practicing in the back of the class.
• Tell your instructor before rehearsal if you are ill or have an injury.
• Work together as a team. Support each other with positive feedback. Not everyone will be in every dance. Remember that everyone will have his or her turn to shine.
• Never, and we mean NEVER, make negative comments about any dancers.

Fusion Dance Company’s Expectation of Parents:
FUSION Dance Company is a 10 month commitment, during which many events take place. It is crucial that
all dancers and parents stay informed with FUSION information throughout the entire year. Here are some expectations parents must follow in order to maintain a smooth, safe, enjoyable year:
1. Be ON TIME to weekly classes. This is absolutely necessary and tardiness will not be tolerated. Please bring
dancers 5-10 minutes early to prepare for class.
2. ATTENDANCE is MANDATORY. Each dancer is expected to be in class every week in order to keep up with choreography and performance schedule.
3. Have an EMAIL ACCOUNT that you check regularly. I send out weekly emails that contain very important information including event locations, updated schedules, costume info, etc. This is crucial in staying informed
with a busy dance company. If you are not yet receiving emails from me or would like to update your email,
please send me your address immediately.
4. Keep your FUSION Calendar UPDATED. There will be numerous deadlines added to the calendar throughout the year, including costume payments, new events, extra rehearsals, travel details, etc.
5. STAY INFORMED & pick up new information. Parents, please actually come into the studio OFTEN and check
your email every week to receive important information on upcoming events, etc. It is each dancer’s and parent’s responsibility to stay informed. There are so many FUSION members and everyone needs to do their part in
staying up to date!
6. CHECK THE WEBSITE & YOUR ACCOUNT. www.hypedancestudio.com will constantly be updated with new information on FUSION events, including local performances, competitions, and fundraisers.

Additionally, parents must trust the Fusion Faculty to do what’s best for their dancer and the performance. Trusting in the expertise of the faculty is ultimately a wonderful thing, and you can sit back and watch your child’s progress and enjoyment. There are truly an unbelievable number of decisions that must be made to maintain the dancers’ progressions, acceptable performances, and more. Parent involvement in certain company decisions doesn’t work…it is simply impossible for so many people to agree on one thing. We appreciate your support on our decision-making for the following:

• Costumes
• Music
• Choreography
• Conventions / Competitions
• Teachers
• Schedules
• Casts

Summer Master Intensive 2011: This summer we will be offering an incredible 3-day Intensive with Guest Master Teachers Sarah Blakley, Laurel Tennant, Bruce King, Miranda McGovern, Joi Fletcher and more are being booked! This is mandatory for all FDC members. FDC members may be learning choreography for part of their initial group routines. Master Intensive will be held at HYPE Dance Studio on Monday, July 25 – Wednesday, July 27. See flyer for more details.

Company Attendance Policy: No company member may miss more than 4 classes per style each
semester. This includes both technique and rehearsal classes. If more than 4 classes have been missed, that dancer will be on probation for the next performances / competitions. Dance takes dedication and hard work,
and you have to be there to improve. (see Attendance Policy for further details)
NOTE: Due to the fast-paced training schedule for the dancers each week, they cannot afford to miss classes. Choreography is taught at all rehearsal classes and can be extremely hard on the dancer, instructors, and
teammates to catch up on. This also goes for all technique classes, where most of their crucial training is taking
place. Of course emergencies happen, and dancers do become injured or ill sometimes. However please help to keep them safe and healthy so they can remain strong and capable during their season!

Performance Attendance: If for any reason you see a conflict with any performance dates please notify Sarah immediately. All performances are mandatory, except of course the “optional” events. If one member is not present it lets the entire group down. Additionally, some performances that are booked during the season andare not on the original calendar become optional. Please inform us of your availability as soon as possible for any added events.

Tuition
1 hour per week $50.00 monthly
1.5 hours per week $60.00 monthly
2 hours per week $81.00 monthly
2.5 hours per week $91.00 monthly
3 hours per week $113.00 monthly
3.5 hours per week $123.00 monthly
4 hours per week $141.00 monthly
4.5 hours per week $151.00 monthly
5 hours per week $165.00 monthly
5.5 hours per week $175.00 monthly
6 hours per week $185.00 monthly
6.5 hours per week $195.00 monthly
7 + hours per week $205.00 monthly
Tuition for Pre-Dance / 45 min. classes:
1 class per week $42.00 monthly
2 classes per week $76.00 monthly
3 classes per week $102.00 monthly
Drop-In Rate: $15.00 per hour class
$18.00 per 1 ½ hr class
Annual Registration: $25.00 per student
Private Lessons: $40.00 per ½ hour
$50.00 per 1 hour
Family Discounts: family members may combine rates up to 7 hours per week maximum. 45 min classes combined with 1 hour classes remain at their original rate.

Tuition Policy
• Annual Registration Fee for all new students joining at Fall Session. This fee covers registration through Summer 2012. ($25 per student / Family Discount = $5 per additional family member)
• Fall Session is 16 weeks (or 4 months) of instruction from Aug. 15-Dec. 11.
• Tuition may be made in 5 payments, due at the 1st of every month. (Payment is required for half of Aug. when session begins, and then at the first of each month thereafter. Only half of Dec. is charged on Dec. 1st) 1 payment may also be made for the entire session.
• There is a late fee of $15.00 if tuition is received after the 10th of the month.
• We do not bill unless accounts are more than 30 days delinquent, so please remember to make your payments on time.
• $25.00 Fee will be applied to returned checks.
• Tuition adjustments will not be made for missed classes. Make-up classes must be arranged.
• All payments made by CHECK, CASH, VISA, MASTERCARD or ATM.
• HYPE Dance Studio is closed on some National Holidays (as listed). Those classes cancelled will always be rescheduled. Tuition will not change.
• All private lessons must be paid on or before your child's lesson. There is a non-refundable cancellation fee of $25.00 unless instructor is notified at least 24 hours in advance

Any additional rehearsalsadded to prepare for upcoming competitions, events, etc. may be charged. Notification of this will be emailed as soon as rehearsal is scheduled.

Competition Adds:
In addition to the Fusion group routines created, FUSION Dance Company has presented some amazing additional routines that we enter into competitions all year. These routines are valuable to and can be selected for the more
experienced dancer by the director and staff. Requests are also accepted. Solos, duos, trios, and small groups can be another great addition to the dancers’ weekly training and stage experience. If you are interested in training for any of the
following, please submit your request to Sarah Blakley for consideration first. Selections are based on skill level of dancer,
dancer’s work ethic demonstrated in class, and dancer’s ability to carry stage presence as a soloist or dancer in small group.
o Solos: a choreography fee of $100.00 will be charged and 3 1-hour private lessons will be scheduled at the private lesson rate.
o Duos: a choreography fee of $125.00 will be charged and 3 1-hour private lessons will be scheduled at the private lesson rate.
o Trios: a choreography fee of $150.00 will be charged and 3 1-hour private lessons will be scheduled at the private lesson rate.
O Groups of 4 or more: a choreography fee of $200.00 will be charged and 3 1-hour private lessons will be scheduled at the private lesson rate.
(Payment for choreography and 3 1-hour private lessons must be paid for at time of scheduling.)

Conventions, Competitions, Recitals and Performances:
Each season FUSION Dance Company travels to various conventions and competitions. These weekend trips
are vital for the dancer to gain the experience as a competitive dancer and further her/his techniques, skills,
and stage performance. Part of a dancer’s education is learning how to compete with and learn from the best, learn in new environments, meet dancers from other studios, and form the FUSION Family bond that’s
necessary for their success.
The trips can also be fun for the entire family, as we are usually situated in a convenient part of town in a great hotel. Family members can also become an active part of the weekend, not just by giving support to their dancer but by actually participating in some of the events themselves! Once again…we call ourselves the FUSION FAMILY! All of our trips can create lasting memories for everyone. Company members will be required to do 2 conventions and all others will be optional.

What is the difference between a convention and just a competition?
A competitionis a weekend event that usually begins on a Friday afternoon or evening and lasts until Sunday afternoon. Dancers and studios from all over compete in different categories, like hip hop, jazz, lyrical, tap, contemporary, open,
novelty, etc. All ages are invited to compete. FUSION dancers compete with the routines they have learned thus far with
costumes and all. This is usually held at a large auditorium or theatre where family and friends can watch. Dancers are required to be there approx.1 hour prior to competition time (dressed and ready) to stretch, review, and prepare for competition. Competitions are an incredible way to gain stage experience and to give the dancers the tools needed for improving their overall dancing. A list of competitions for each Fusion group will be given out at parent meetings.
A convention is also a weekend event that begins early Saturday morning and ends on Sunday afternoon. At a convention dancers do 2 things: take classes AND perform or compete. Dance classes of all styles are taught by the industry’s most renowned choreographers and professionals, where dancers learn invaluable techniques, lessons, and routines. Classes
will run from 8 AM – 3 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Competition or showcase takes place on Saturday evening from about 4 PM – 10 PM. For convention classes dancers are placed in levels by their studio based on ability and age, and
parents may purchase an “observer pass” to watch them in the actual classes all weekend. It’s an amazing event where
“celebrity” choreographers from shows like So You Think You Can Dance and America’s Best Dance Crew are featured. It
is probably one of the most inspiring and exciting weekends in a young dancers career, and FUSION attends various conventions throughout the season. Attending dancers are required to take all classes held at convention. A list of
conventions for all Fusion groups will be given out at parent meetings.

What expenses are involved in both conventions and competitions?
Competition fees are approx. $30-$45 per dancer per dance. The number of dances entered at each competition is determined on how many they have learned at that point of the year. There is no fee to watch competition. Travel
expenses like hotel, food, and gas are additional. Each company will set up a group rate at a local hotel that is discounted
for dancers’ families. Hotel charges vary between $75 - $125 per night, and we usually stay 2 nights. (unless it’s a competition in Sacramento where most dancers travel back and forth). There are 2 parts to convention fees: the “convention tuition” for classes usually runs between $180.00 - $230.00 per dancer, and the “competition fees” for that
weekend are approx. $35.00 per routine. (conventions usually have a limit to dances entered in competition; dances
competing will be decided by director of Fusion and selection is based on seniority and technical level.) For more cost breakdowns, see “Estimated Expenses” page.

How far do we usually travel?
FUSION Dance Company will stay mostly in the Northern California area, from Sacramento to the Bay Area. Most conventions take place in Santa Clara, while competitions are held at various locations like Sacramento, San Francisco,
Hayward, and Marine World in Vallejo!

Recitals:
All Fusion dancers hold a large part in both of our annual dance recitals “HYPE Holiday Dance Review” and “HYPErbole.” Holiday Show is a 1-day event held in Dec, and “HYPErbole” is a 3-day production in May/June that includes 3 shows and 1 dress rehearsal, all of which Fusion dancers are required to attend. These are
very exciting times for our company dancers to take the stage and enjoy performing all of their routines they’ve
learned over the year.

Local Performances:
Fusion dancers participate in various local performances throughout the year. This includes half-time at Chico State Basketball games, local fairs, school rallies and many other events. Fusion dancers are able to share their passion with our community, which is a vital part of our program.

Sample Schedule of Events & Performances:
August: Auditions, Student Choreography Showcase Meetings, Fall classes begin
October: Marine World Competition in Vallejo, Student Choreography Showcase
November: Co. Dance Convention in Sacramento
December: HYPE Holiday Dance Review, Holiday Break
February: Competition, Local Performances, Pulse, NRG, Nuvo
March: KINGS Halftime Performance, Monsters of Hip Hop
April: Convention, Local Performances
May/June: HYPErbole Dance Recital

Please note: this is just a sample outline of what our season looks like. Local performances continue throughout the year and get added as they are booked. Certain conventions and competitions are optional and
not mandatory. A detailed schedule will be given out after auditions.

A full list of competitions and conventions will be given out prior to routine invitations and costumes payment deadlines.

Costumes: All costumes are chosen by the choreographer and director. They cost approx. between
$35.00 - $60.00 on average, depending on the company routine and costume company. Some costumes may be more. We make every effort to keep costs down, while trying to retain artistic quality of the dance and the garment durability. All costumes will be announced with routine invitations.

Shoes - All shoes are to be worn for performances / competitions only and kept through the entire season. All will be ordered after auditions and when first costumes are chosen.
• Hip Hop Shoes = each group will have a shoe ordered for them through HYPE Dance Studio.
• Jazz Shoes = all jazz company members need black jazz shoes for rehearsals/performances/class, Foot Undeez for lyrical, and potentially tan jazz shoes (depending on costume).
• Tap Shoes = all tap company members must have black lace up tap shoes (no split sole).

Company Warm-ups: Fusion Dance Company 2011-2012 will require all dancers to have the company T-shirt, sweats and a sweatshirt. Family members are welcome to purchase these items as well. (Will be available at parent meeting on Monday, July 25).

Summary of General Expenses in addition to monthly tuition:

• Fusion T-shirt: $20.00
• Optional hoodie and pants approx. $60.00 total
• Costumes: approx. $35.00 - $65.00 each
• Shoes: range from $25.00 - $60.00 each depending on style
• Extras: tights, makeup, accessories, garment carriers, etc.
• Conventions: $180-$230 each (see page 9)
• Competition fees: $30-$45 per dance (see page 9)
• Extras: hotel, gas, food, etc.

 
Company Commitment

The true definition of “company” or “team” is a group of people working together to achieve the same goals. Although Fusion Dance Company offers different levels of involvement, it is crucial that the commitment toward the company is equal. We give each parent and child this Info Packet to help equip you with the adequate information regarding expense, time commitment, and dates as we see them at this time. We expect that you can take this information and make a well-informed decision about your involvement in Fusion Dance Company 2011-2012.

 
If you have any further questions we are happy to answer them. Please contact Sarah at
sarah@hypedancestudio.com.