When you attend a ballet, a recital, or really any sort of dance show, you probably don’t give any thought to what happens backstage. You’re probably an engaged audience member. You’re probably only thinking about the amazing feats of the human body executed right in front of you.
However, if you’re a dancer, you know that backstage is anything but a peaceful environment. Whether you’re a dancer, an audience member or just a curious passerby, here’s a brief glimpse into the commotion hidden behind the curtains and lights.
1. Someone always loses something.
“Has anyone seen my hairbrush?” “I can’t find my phone!” “Please check your bags—make sure you didn’t grab someone else’s costume by accident!”
2. All the good snacks are gone by the second night.
That triple jumbo bag of M&M’s didn’t stand a chance against the ravenous appetites fueled by opening night.
3. A request for the hairspray goes out every five minutes.
It is the hottest commodity of the night.
4. Everyone shares makeup even though you’re not supposed to.
Yes, sharing lipstick and eyeliner is unhygienic, but who really remembers to bring all of their makeup every time?
5. It takes a miracle and a half in order to get the dressing room door to stay closed.
There will always be someone who wants to be on the other side of that door.
6. Therefore, you can basically assume there will be no privacy.
It’s akin to hanging out in a locker room for three hours (although it usually smells better).
7. Trying to be productive is an uphill battle.
All the panic and disarray make it difficult to focus on studying for your exam tomorrow.
8. Getting people to keep quiet backstage is even harder.
Everyone’s riding an adrenaline high with a side of performance jitters. In other words, we have no chill.
9. Impromptu dance parties and karaoke sessions will likely ensue.
It's the best way to warm up and get rid of the previously mentioned performance jitters.
10. The restroom is always occupied.
Complicated costumes significantly increase the amount of time spent doing your business.
11. Navigating backstage in pitch-black darkness takes a special kind of skill.
Everyone is trying their hardest not to run into props or trip over the dancers warming up.
12. When a performance doesn’t go well, you can always count on the comfort and support of your fellow dancers.
One does not simply let a friend wallow in self-pity.
13. When it does, you can all bask in the shared joy and relief.
Nailed it!
14. The group bow is usually a last-minute scramble.
It doesn’t matter how early you all get ready, closing the show is always a whirlwind.
15. In the end, backstage chaos brings people together in an amazing way.
There is no way we can be strangers after sharing this experience.
