Vibe Dance Company Informational Packet The Arlington Heights Park District is pleased you are interested in auditioning for Vibe Dance Company. Included in this packet is important information regarding the Vibe Dance Company 2016-2017 season, please read the packet in its entirety to gain a full understanding of the commitment and requirements expected of company members and families. Company Goal: Welcome to the VIBE Dance Company at the Arlington Heights Park District for the wellrounded and dedicated dancer (ages 8+). There are three levels of company all under one name. The goal of the program is to offer a competitive based company that places importance on encouraging each other, perfecting techniques, increasing performance ability, advancing skill levels and sharing the love of dance. There is a specific emphasis on lyrical, jazz and ballet dance. Age Requirements: Vibe Dance Company starts at age 8. Those dancers who are interested in auditioning and are not quite 8 years old at the time of auditions require a director recommendation to be considered during auditions. Please see more information on our Vibe directors toward the end of this packet. Dancers: Remember to have fun, smile and pay attention during auditions. Included in this packet are tips for those auditioning. Please read through these tips prior to auditions. Parents/Guardians: Are not allowed to watch during auditions, we ask that you please refrain from entering the dance studio or peeking through any windows/ doors, this distracts the students from the audition process. Auditions are scheduled from 4:00pm-9:00pm. The majority of students will be released by 8pm while some may be asked to stay until 9pm. Please bring a picture of your dancer to auditions. If you have questions about auditions or the information in this packet please contact Taylor Hamm, Cultural Arts Supervisor. Thamm@ahpd.org OR Amy Braheny, Cultural Arts Coordinator. Abraheny@ahpd.org
TIPS FOR THOSE AUDITIONING Be physically and nutritionally healthy. Make sure you eat a healthy breakfast and bring a water bottle with you to auditions. Wear comfortable and moveable clothing. Class dance wear see page 3. Dance shoes are required! Make sure your hair is in either a bun or a ponytail. Jewelry: No loose jewelry should be worn to auditions, Stud earrings are okay. Please refrain from chewing gum Cellphones & tablets should be off and put away in your bag. Don t look at the floor when you dance, pick a spot on the wall right above the judge s heads and use that as your focal point. SMILE! Use your facials. Ask Questions! If you are confused on something you are being taught, raise your hand and ask the instructor to go over it again for you. Remember your audition starts right when you enter the facility, not just when you are performing. Please be kind and courteous to those teaching the routine, try not to talk during instruction unless you have a question. Always be kind and courteous to your fellow dancers. Make new friends! HAVE FUN
Audition FAQ s HOW ARE AUDITIONS RUN? Dates to Know: Monday, June 6 th : 11+ years of age Tuesday, June 7 th : 8-10 years old 4:00-4:15pm Check In Dancers auditioning will sign in and receive a # that should be placed on the front of their shirt so that it is visible by the judges. 4:15-5:15pm Stretch & Learn Dancers: stretch & learn audition routine in gym Parents: As dancers start their warmups we will hold a short meeting on the bleachers to answer any questions you may have. 5:15-8:00pm Auditions Dancers will be put in groups of 3 or 4 and brought in to perform routine for the judges. Each student will also be asked to execute the following: Pirouettes (double recommended), leaps, chaine turns, battements, & splits (right and left). *other skills may be required* 8:00-9:00pm Callbacks Dancers who were given the blue callback sheet are asked to stay until 9pm for callback purposes. Note: This does not mean that your child didn t make Vibe. WHEN WILL WE FIND OUT WHO MADE COMPANY? Company lists will be posted no later than Wednesday June 8 th, 2016 at 5pm online at ahpd.org/dance. Please note that the summer session starts June 13 th, 2016 WHAT SHOULD DANCERS WEAR TO AUDITIONS? Everyone auditioning for Company should arrive in appropriate dance attire. For Example: Fitted top/leotard, fitted pants/shorts, dance shoes (jazz shoes preferred, other dance shoes accepted). Hair must be pulled off your face (bun or ponytail preferred). WHAT IS THE BLUE SHEET AND WHY DIDN T MY SON/DAUGHTER RECEIVE ONE? The blue sheet is a call back notice which means that the judges would like to see something more from the dancer and/or they would like to see them perform the audition piece again. Callbacks are from 8-9pm that same day. If you did not receive a call back notice it does not mean that you didn t make it on Company. WHAT ARE DANCERS JUDGED ON? Each dancer selected during auditions will be placed in a company level according to ability Performance execution Skills execution Facials & smile Attitude (during the entire audition process) HOW MANY SPOTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR COMPANY? (# of spots may vary) Seniors 14 Juniors 14 Petites 14
VIBE DANCE COMPANY 2016-2017 SEASON INFORMATION Classes Company members are required to take a minimum of two classes. Vibe Company Technique class is a combo class consisting of your actual Vibe class where you learn choreography for performance routines and your technique class where you focus on specific techniques. An additional ballet class of the student s choosing is also required, Administrative staff and Vibe directors will assist with the registration of the additional ballet class. Please see class breakdown. Class Name Vibe Company/Technique Class Additional Ballet Class Class Length 2 hours 1 hour Meeting Times (Locations for classes will be printed the AHPD program guide) In an effort to continue to create one cohesive company with three performance levels, there will be mandatory all company rehearsal the last Saturday of every month from 1-3pm at Pioneer. Dates are subject to change. Summer Session meeting times Level 1 will meet on Monday from 7-9pm at Pioneer Level 2 will meet on Tuesday from 7:15-9:15pm at Administration Level 3 will meet on Thursday from 6-8pm at Pioneer Fall, Winter, and Spring Session meeting times Level 1 will meet on Monday from 7-9pm at Pioneer Level 2 will meet on Monday from 7:15-9:15pm at Administration Level 3 will meet on Wednesday from 6-8pm at Administration Standards Attendance Attendance is not only important for your growth as a member of company, but also to your fellow company members and staff. As a team activity it is important for company members and staff to feel as though they can rely on you as a member of the team. 3 or more attendance policy: If you have 3 or more unexcused absences in one session you will not be permitted to participate in the next upcoming company performance such as competitions, conventions and special performances. If a specific situation comes up, and you know you will be absent often, parents are asked to please contact the Cultural Arts Supervisor to discuss options. Dancers can schedule a private makeup class with their Vibe director as needed, this applies to ballet class as well. Please see more on unexcused absences in injury/illness section.
Tardiness Tardiness is not only discourteous, it interrupts practice and most times lessens the dancers warm up time. We ask that all company members abide by the following tardiness breakdown. Up to 15 minutes early = ON TIME 15+ minutes late = LATE 15+ minutes late results in a quarter of an unexcused absence. Please note if you are more than 15 minutes late 4 times = 1 unexcused absence. Dress Code Proper Attire in class is very important, all dancers should wear Dance shorts/capris/pants and appropriate dance top (leotard, Vibe tank etc.) Jeans, pajama pants, oversized t-shirts or sweatshirts will not be allowed in class. Hair should be pulled out of a dancer s face for safety. For all ballet classes students are required to wear a leotard and tights combo with their hair in a bun. Appropriate shoes for all classes are required to be worn during class; dancers are not allowed to wear just socks. Jazz- jazz shoes, Ballet- ballet shoes etc. Injuries/Illness Although injuries can occur in the life of a dancer, the Park District takes injuries very seriously and has policies in place to protect you as an athlete. If you are injured, a doctor s note is required in order for you to continue dancing. However, dancers are still required to sit in on class. Before dancers are able to resume participation, the Park District needs clearance from your family doctor that your child is physically able to return to dance. If a competition, convention or special performance is coming up, we need the clearance from a doctor no later than two weeks prior to the performance. We understand that illnesses can also occur. If you miss class due to an illness the Park District requires a doctor s note so that we can mark your absences excused. Please note: if you do not have a doctor s note, your absence will be marked unexcused and will count against the 3 or more policy. If a specific situation comes up and you do not have a doctor s note. parents are asked to please contact the Cultural Arts Supervisor to discuss options. (See more in attendance policy) Technology Cell phones and tablets are not permitted during class, they should be on silent and stored with your belongings. If you must have your cell phone on during class for emergencies, please notify the instructor and he/she will keep it with them for the duration of class time. If students need to be warned more than 3 times regarding cell phone or tablet usage, the director will have a conversation with parents. Competitions (competitions take place in the Chicagoland area) Vibe will compete in several competitions throughout the season; most competitions are weekend competitions (dates listed in Vibe calendar given at a later date). Each level of company will bring two group performances to each competition. The two group performances brought to each competition are included in your overall fee. Please note: we do not receive tentative or finalized schedules from competition hosts until 2-4 weeks prior to the competition date. We ask that dancers/families keep the weekends of competition available to accommodate for this.
Vibe members interested in bringing solos, duets, trios, or small group pieces to competition will need to be auditioned. Meaning Directors will hold auditions for those interested. Directors will make the decision on what pieces they bring to each competition based off the dancer s hard work and dedication. If your child brings a solo, duet or trio, or small group to competition you will be invoiced for that amount. Conventions (conventions take place in the Chicagoland area) Vibe will attend 1-3 conventions throughout the season. Conventions are opportunities for students to learn and grow as dancers. Recital All company members are required to be available for all shows during recital weekend. Workshops (workshops will take place at one of the AHPD dance studios) Vibe will hold 1-2 all company internal workshops during the season. Requirements & Expectations Dancers who do not comply with the requirements/expectations listed below will meet with the Company Directors and/or the Cultural Arts Supervisor along with a parent or guardian. When necessary, the Park District s Behavior Management/Standard Operating Procedure may apply. o To perform in all company performances including: recital, company shows, competitions, conventions, special performances & events etc. o To follow all Vibe company policies. o As a member of Vibe Dance Company you are in many ways like family members to each other. You will spend a lot of time together and are expected to treat your fellow dancers and instructors with respect. o Use your class time to learn and strengthen your skills as dancers. o Use good manners at all times. o Communicate respectfully with your fellow dancers and instructors. o Be upfront and honest with instructors about anything you are uncomfortable with. o Gossip and bullying of any kind are absolutely unacceptable, this includes all forms of cyber bullying, texting and social media gossip. o Have a positive attitude at all times. o As a member of Company you are a representative of the entire dance program, you are expected to act accordingly and be a positive role model in and out of the studio. Commitment & Conduct of Company Families We expect the following from our Company Members: Focus, Commitment, Respect, Strong Technique, Enthusiasm, Showmanship, Creativity, Teamwork, and DEDICATION! More than ever these students are pulled in every direction with commitments. While we love that our students are well-rounded
and participate in many activities, it is very important that company is the main focus outside of school and can take precedence over other activities. Extracurricular programs such as dance teams, school plays, or playing a competitive sport have caused undue stress and burnout in students, and we strongly advise that both parent and dancers examine calendars carefully before committing to Company. Please navigate the calendar/expectations in this packet for more details. Given the expectations of company members we expect the following of company parents and families throughout the season: Enthusiasm, Commitment, Showmanship and Respect for instructors, staff, and other parents/families. Parent Involvement Throughout the year it is essential for parents to participate in Dance Company events such as competitions, recital volunteers, special performances etc. The success of Vibe relies on parent support. For more information on parent involvement please contact your level director. Parents/families are asked to be respectful of Vibe directors and their schedules. If you have a question or concern for the directors, please schedule a time outside of class time to discuss with them as they may be teaching or assisting other patrons. AHPD Dance Program Code of Conduct Participants and their parents/legal guardians are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times. The following guidelines have been developed to help make Park District programs safe and enjoyable for all participants. Additional rules may be developed as deemed necessary by staff. No verbal or physical abuse, threatening, obscene, disrespectful or physical violence toward other participants/staff will be tolerated. Bullying and gossip of any kind will not be tolerated and may result in suspension from the program. (this includes, electronic and social media bullying/gossip) All threats and threatening behavior will be taken seriously and reported to the authorities. Participants and parents must refrain from using abusive or foul language. Participants and parents must show respect to all staff, other participants, all property, equipment and facilities. Participants may not place themselves or others in dangerous situations through actions or behavior. Participants may not leave the program without permission. Participants are responsible for their actions and belongings (bags, jackets, electronics, items brought from home, etc.) Participants and family members who disrespect the code of conduct may warrant and immediate meeting with Vibe directors/program supervisors and/or suspension or dismissal from the AHPD Dance Program for the remainder of the season. Agreement During the first class of the summer session, after auditions, company members and parents sign an agreement for the year. We use this agreement to maintain accountability to their team and help reinforce responsibility.
2016-2017 Company Calendar June July August September October November December January February March April May Summer Session Starts Welcome Party All Company Rehearsal 6/25 1-3pm at Pioneer Learn all performances & routines Team Building Auditions for competition solos, duets, trios etc. Pool party Car Wash All Company Rehearsal 7/30 1-3pm at Pioneer Fall Session Starts Boomers Baseball Game Levels 1&2 Downtown dance trip All Company Rehearsal 8/27 1-3pm at Pioneer Dance marathon All Company Rehearsal 9/24 1-3pm at Pioneer Autumn Harvest All Company Rehearsal 10/29 1-3pm at Pioneer KAR Convention Tree Lighting All Company Rehearsal 11/19 1-3pm at Pioneer (please note this rehearsal is the 3 rd week in November to accommodate the Thanksgiving Holiday.) Feed My Starving Children Holiday show All Company Rehearsal 12/31 1-3pm at Pioneer Winter/Spring Session Starts Company Competition Prep Day All Company Rehearsal 1/28 1-3pm at Pioneer Dance Idol Wilmette Star of Dance All Company Rehearsal 2/25 1-3pm at Pioneer Workshop All Company Rehearsal 3/25 1-3pm at Pioneer Power of Dance Competition All Company Rehearsal 4/29 1-3pm at Pioneer Recital Company Show Six Flags All Company Rehearsal 5/27 1-3pm at Pioneer *This calendar is subject to change. There may be additional company events announced throughout the 16/17 season.
Pricing & Payment Total Season Cost for ALL Members $2121.00 What does this include? o Summer, Fall, Winter & Spring Vibe/Technique class fees o Summer, Fall, Winter & Spring Ballet class fees o 12 all company rehearsals o Group competitions pieces o Conventions o 2 special performances o 1 workshop o 5-6 costumes o Company accessory kit o ALL Vibe gear o New! Vibe Show DVD Payment Options Families have 3 payment options: 1: Pay in Full $2121 due: 6/13/2016 2: 2 Payments of $1060.50 due: 6/13/2016 & 11/14/2016 3: 3 Payments of $707 due: 6/13/2016, 8/29/2016 & 11/14/2016 Refunds Competitions, conventions, workshops, costumes, and gear are non-refundable. If a dancer decides they do not want to continue with company, you can submit a request for a class refund. Class refunds are calculated by the number of classes you will no longer participate in for the season. Refunds are approved on a case by case basis.
Vibe Dance Company Directors Carla Ricchio Vibe Petite Level III Carla Ricchio is a choreographer that creates and pursues her own passions and dreams through her work of dance. She has been with the Arlington Heights Park District Dance program since 2002. She has over 30 years of dance training and performing. In high school, Carla was a member of the Orchesis Dance Team. She was also a member and performer in the Harper College Dance Company. Carla attended several Master Classes with Randy Duncan and attended dance classes at Gus Giordanos for several years. Carla assisted several of her dance teachers at the studios she attended. She was Co-Director of the Starr Dance Company, and MDC Dance Company. In addition to teaching with AHPD Carla is currently instructing high school dance teams in technical dance background and attends dance conventions regularly. Her love for dance lives on and it definitely shows through her teaching, and choreography, students love her dynamic energy and style! Carla likes to enforce a fun, positive, and serious learning experience for all her dancers. Jennifer Hicks Vibe Junior Level II & Company Coordinator Miss.Jennie has loved her dance family here at the Arlington Heights Park District for over 12 years! She began studying dance at the age of 4. She was instructed in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, character, modern, and lyrical. She became an Instructor for Dena Marie's School of Dance in 2000 and was given the opportunity to become the Studio's Assistant director in 2006. She has danced at Dorothy's Dancing Unlimited, the Lou Conte Dance Company and the Hubbard Street Dance Company. She performed in productions of Bye Bye Birdie, Annie, Fiddler on the Roof and a Christmas Carol. Throughout high school, Jennifer was part of the Orchesis team and choreographed many variety show dances. Along with Miss.Alyssa, she attends multiple conventions and workshops throughout the year to continue her dance education. Jennifer also holds the title of Company Coordinator for the Arlington Heights Park District dance company. Alyssa Sugisawa Vibe Senior Level I Alyssa has studied dance since the age of 5 with experience in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Lyrical, Tap, Modern, Musical Theatre and Hip Hop. Alyssa started dance at Dorothy s Dance Unlimited and continued at Dena Marie s School of Dance. For over 10 years, Alyssa has trained dancers of all levels and ages. She started as an assistant to fellow AHPD instructor Jennifer Hicks and a demonstrator for ballet classes in 2006. Two years later Alyssa was hired as an instructor for the highest student level. While in high school, Alyssa was a member of the Orchesis team and was a student choreographer for many dances. She continued to study dance at North Central College in Naperville, where she completed her Bachelor s degree in Music. Along with Miss. Jennie, she continues to attend multiple conventions and workshops throughout the year to continue her dance education.