WEEHAWKEN DANCE TEACHING STAFF BACKSTAGE AT "ALICE IN WONDERLAND", MAY 2024

Contact us at:
questions@weehawkenarts.org
970-318-0150

When you call, please leave a message so we can call you back! We don't hold regular office hours because we're always dancing!

We do most of our correspondence with you by email.

Please add the following information to your contacts:

Natasha Pyeatte    natasha@weehawkenarts.org

Lexi Brailsford    lexi@weehawkenarts.org

Weehawken’s Main phone number: 970-318-0150

Natasha’s phone number in case of emergency: 970-318-6674

  • For questions that are not urgent, email is preferred and we check our email regularly. If we are in a class, we will not answer the phone. Natasha will not answer the phone if it’s a number she doesn’t recognize so leave a message or text her and she will get back to you as soon as she is available.

    If you need to get in contact with your dancer’s teacher, please use their Weehawken email:

    Teacher Bios

    Weehawken Dance teaching staff at "Alice in Wonderland", May 2024

    Parents Visitation Week, 11/11 - 11/15

    Click to download a flyer

    All About Pointe

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS ALICE IN WONDERLAND, MAY 2024

    • Some Students may be able to begin pre-pointe and pointe work beginning in level III. Under no circumstances may students wear pointe shoes or take a WCA pointe class without first being approved by an Authorized Instructor. Pointe work can be very dangerous to students not properly prepared for pointe work.
    • Students must participate in at least 2 ballet technique classes per week in addition to pointe classes. Pointe can be very dangerous to students not maintaining proper technique, strength, and coordination. No exceptions. Students not maintaining proper conditioning or missing too many classes will be asked to not participate in pointe class. It’s up to you to show up to class ready to dance and to continue to recondition at home. If you are injured, you need to take a break from pointe.
    • Students not dancing the previous semester (or in summer) will not be allowed to participate in the pointe section of class at the beginning of the semester. After 1 month the teacher will evaluate whether or not the student is ready to return to pointe class.

    Need Pointe Shoes? Things to know & prepare for

    • Call ahead to make an appointment
    • The fitting will last at least an hour
    • Wear a leotard and convertible tights. If you don’t own convertible tights, either buy some from us ahead of time or at the store.
    • Make sure to prepare your feet ahead of time. Trimmed toenails and clean feet.

    Shoes to buy:

    • Whatever they fit you in is fine… but here’s what Miss Natasha likes if they will work on your dancer’s foot.
    • Nikolay (Grishko) 2007 or proflex pointe shoes-- these are getting hard to find in the US. You could try Virtisse brand, style Apogee, very similar to Grishko 2007.
    • Bloch

    Places to Go Get Fitted

    A Big Store with a wide selection of shoes in a city is best. Getting fitted while traveling on a family trip is the best way to go.

    Here are some options:


    Denver Area
    Dance Xtreme Dance Body Wear
    6860 S Clinton St. #E
    Greenwood Village, CO 80112
    (303)708-1592
    www.danceextremebodywear.com
    info@DanceExtremeBodywear.com

    Open
    M-Th 10am-7pm
    Fri & Sat 10am-6pm
    Sunday Noon-4pm

    Boulder Body Wear
    2660 Canyon Blvd. Ste. A-1
    Boulder, CO 80302
    (303)447-9100
    (877)239-9327
    https://www.boulderbodywear.com
    Hours of Operation Change Seasonally

    Salt Lake Area
    Pat’s Dancewear
    105 S. Main Street
    Bountiful, UT 84010
    (801) 292-7287

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER, DECEMBER 2022

    You will also need

    • Padding:
    • Bunheads brand ouch pouches or ouch pouch jr’s. Or something similar, comfortable but not too thick so you can feel the floor.
    • Toes spacers only if you have a gappy toe space and need it.
    • Gummies or other tiny padding for blisters or other uncomfortable spots
    • Ribbons:
    • Miss Natasha prefers the tendonitis ribbons (with the elastic in the back if they have it). Elastic ribbon is also fine.
    • Elastic:
    • Thick or thin, whatever they think you need for your foot
    • Other things to have:
    • Toe nail clippers and nail file
    • toe tape
    • stitch kit and tiny scissors

    Click to Download

    Observing Classes

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER, DECEMBER 2022

    While we maintain a policy of not permitting parents to observe classes directly in our classrooms or hallways, it's all in the interest of providing your dancer with an environment free from distractions. However, we offer alternative methods for you to observe your dancer's progress without causing any disruptions.

    Nest Camera Login Access

    Whether you want to watch your dancer in class or tune in from home due to illness in your household, we've got you covered! Please note that these links may not function on iPhones; however, iPads, tablets, and laptops are all excellent alternatives. If necessary, you can also use your phone's hotspot from the parking lot. Additionally, for classes held at the Montrose Field House, viewing is available on the TV in the lobby.

    Additional Information

    • Passwords can be obtained the first week of dance class.
    • IMPORTANT- this password is not to be shared with anyone. We want to keep our dancers safe!
    • Each semester we will have a parents visitation day where parents with students in levels primary-level 2 may come and observe the last part of class and ask any recital or class work questions. You can find this semester’s dates on the dates to remember page. 
    • At the Montrose Field House- Classes may be observed from the TV in the lobby
    • At the Montrose Flex Rec, we unplug the cameras when classes are not in session. These links should work when classes are happening.
    • At Black Canyon Gymnastics- you can view aerial classes from balcony. No camera access.

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS PETER PAN, MAY 2023

    Taking/Posting Pictures and Videos

    • After an absence: If approved by your teacher, you may videotape the last 5 minutes of choreography time the week you return from an absence so you may practice at home. The video may NOT be posted to social media and are solely for the purpose of allowing your child to practice at home. Please check with your teacher before taking video during class.
    • Posting to Social Media for fun: If you would like to take a video and post it to social media, please check with the teacher ahead of time for approval, and please tag Weehawken Dance in the video.
    • #weehawkendance
    • #weehawkencreativearts

    About Nudies & Show Tights

    Weehawken DOES have CLASSIC PINK TIGHTS AND SHOES, NUDIES, AND “NATURAL” FOOTLESS AERIAL TIGHTS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE.

    We will have them at the rehearsals as well as the performances
    Best-practice would be to get what you need in advance on our website! 
    Do not choose shipping on our 610 website. We will deliver it to your dancer’s class or rehearsal at the Pavilion.

    Ballet Tights

    What does it mean If your costume information says your dancer needs classic pink tights or tights that match skin tone?
    Classic pink is more of a nude pink that matches ballet slippers, and is the classic ballet look. It also matches more of a fair skinned dancer’s skin tone. However, as the ballet world is evolving, so are our dancewear companies that now offer tights and ballet shoes in more colors so ALL of our dancers may find appropriate dancewear in their appropriate shade.

    Here’s an article from Dance Magazine if you are interested to learn more

    For Classic pink tights, order from 610.
    We do have classic pink tights & ballet shoes in stock, as well as uniforms for every level.

    ORDER YOUR CLASSIC PINK BALLET TIGHTS FROM 610 HERE

    For Skin tone tights & Ballet shoes order from Discount Dance.
    Here is a link to discount dance where you can order more colors and styles in ballet shoes and tights. Use teacher code 59479 at check out. Here’s a coupon for 10% off your first purchase.

    ORDER SKIN TONE TIGHTS & BALLET SHOES FROM DISCOUNT DANCE HERE

    Aerial & Circus Tights

    All Aerial & Circus ladies need “natural” colored FOOTLESS tights from Revolution dancewear. We have them in stock. Please order from 610.
    ORDER YOUR AERIAL & CIRCUS TIGHTS FROM 610 HERE

    Nudie Leotards- what are they and why do you need one?

    • Nudie leotards are tan leotards that go on as a base layer for under costumes so dancers are never nude while changing costumes or into street clothes before, after and during the show.
    • Dancers may borrow a nudie leotard to use as a base layer for their costume, BUT these MUST be turned in at costume check in, which means you will be responsible for finding a (private) place to completely change
    • after the performance and bringing clothes to change into.
    • If your dancer is enrolled in level 1 and up (year round) or is enjoying class and you anticipate registering them for dance classes again, we suggest purchasing your nudie leotard. This will keep your arrival to
    • the show and costume check in much more simple as they can change almost anywhere, and can keep their base layer on and take it home. Nudies may be purchased from Weehawken using the link below for $23, and
    • we will pull from our current inventory according to your dancer’s costume size.
    • All nudie leotards will be sent home with dancer’s costumes. If you pay for your nudie, just remember to take it home with you to keep for future performances. If you only plan to borrow, remember to turn it in at costume check in. We will make sure it’s marked on our costume check-in spreadsheet whether or not your dancer paid and is keeping or borrowing.
    ORDER YOUR NUDIE FROM 610 HERE

    Preparation Tips for Your Costumes Before the Show

    Costumes are costly investments, and we strive to recycle them for future use. Please keep the tags intact and remember to check them in after the performance.

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS ALICE'S SWEETS, MAY 2024

    How to Fluff Your Tutu and Smooth Out Wrinkles Before the Show:

    • Although we've steamed your tutus once, they may need some extra attention upon arrival. When you get home, carefully remove the tutu from its bag and hang it upside down on a hanger. Ensure it has plenty of space and isn't compressed by other clothing; a doorway makes an ideal spot.
    • If you don't have a steamer, you can create a makeshift one by hanging the tutu in the bathroom while you shower. The steam will naturally help release wrinkles and restore its fullness.
    • Remember to place the bag back over the costume when transporting it to keep it safe and pristine until showtime

    • Take a moment to inspect your costumes before showtime. If they're wrinkled, consider ironing them for a polished look. For tutus, give them a gentle fluff to ensure they're voluminous and ready to dazzle.
    • Keep your costumes in a secure location away from your pets to prevent any accidental damage.
    • Organize all additional costume items alongside your outfit for easy access during the show. This may include tights, dance shoes, bobby pins for hairpieces, leggings, or an extra layer, especially if the performance is outdoors.

    Things to note/bring to dress rehearsals & performances

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS ALICE'S SWEETS, MAY 2024

    TO DO:

    • Prepare in Advance: Collect all necessary supplies for rehearsals and performances ahead of time.
    • Order Costume Accessories: If any costume accessories are needed as per the "costume needs" list, ensure they are ordered and delivered before the show. This may include tights, shoes, etc.
    • Label Everything: Write your dancer's name on all belongings to prevent mix-ups. Please note that any items left behind will be kept for one week after regular dance classes resume, after which they will be donated to a charitable reseller.
    • Review Etiquette with Your Child: Discuss proper behavior and etiquette with your child before showtime. Students are expected to follow the rules, and failure to do so may result in removal from the show.

    TO BRING:

    • Arrival Attire: Arrive in your base layer with clothing or a robe over it, as there will not be changing facilities available.
    • Costume in Bag: Ensure your dancer brings or wears their costume in the bag provided by Weehawken, with their name clearly labeled.
    • Accessories in Zip Lock Bag: Place all necessary accessories, such as shoes, bobby pins, and show tights, in a zip-lock bag on the hanger or inside the costume bag for easy access.
    • Rubbermaid or Basket: Bring a Rubbermaid container, laundry basket, or box with an attached lid to store all your child's belongings. Label the container with your child's name.
    • Robe or Adult Clothing: Each dancer should bring a robe or adult clothing item with an open, but closable front, to wear over their costume for eating and playing while protecting the costume.
    • Costume Return: Costumes will begin to be sent during Parent’s Visitation Week and will continue until show week. Costumes must be returned onsite after the final performance to avoid restocking or replacement fees.

    Here’s a video on how to get ready for a Weehawken Dance performance.

    Here is a handy check off list you can print (or have handy) while getting ready

    Check List

    COSTUME INFORMATION:

    • Costume Care: Costumes are expensive, and it's vital to handle them with care. After your final performance, you must check in your dancer's costume on-site. Failure to do so will result in a restock or replacement fee of up to $200. Costume check-in will occur directly after each performance and opening after intermission.
    • Tag Preservation: Please do not remove the tags from costumes. We recycle our costumes and require the tags to know the size for future use. If a tag is itchy, simply cover it with a piece of masking tape.
    • Return Protocol: Dancers should return costumes to Weehawken in the same condition they received them. Please bring the costume with the hanger and bag, ensuring all pieces are loaded in the bag or on the hanger. We meticulously check in each piece, and it's essential to return all items.

    Hair & Makeup

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS ALICE IN WONDERLAND, MAY 2024

    Makeup

    • Not Required for Dress Rehearsal, but is mandatory for performances.
    • Preparation: Makeup should be applied prior to arrival, and children should not be sent with unsupervised makeup, especially lipstick. Do NOT use the public restroom at the Pavilion for a prep area.
    • Makeup Requirements: Girls should wear light foundation, powder, blush, lipstick, brown eyeshadow, black eyeliner, and mascara. Boys should wear powder, a brownish blush, and brown eyeliner.
    • Lipstick Recommendation: For ballerinas, a long-lasting, matte lipstick is recommended to avoid messiness. Here’s a great lipstick for young ballerinas: Maybelline SuperStay 24 2-Step Liquid Lipstick Makeup, Infinite Petal. 
    Purchase on Amazon

    Makeup Tutorial for Young Dancers

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS ALICE IN WONDERLAND, MAY 2024

    Hair

    • Styled Hair: Hair should be styled prior to arrival for the dress rehearsal and all performances.
    • Secure Hairstyles: Ponytails should have two elastic bands, and buns should be secured with a hair net matching the dancer's hair color to prevent flyaways.
    • Hair Products: Gel and hairspray are recommended for keeping hairstyles in place on stage
    • Have plenty of bobby pins handy for headpieces, bangs & buns.

      Click to Download

    BALLET MAKEUP DO’S & DON'TS

    DO:

    • Practice before the performance. False eyelashes can be particularly tricky to apply, so it's best to be familiar with the process beforehand.
    • Start with a clean face to ensure a smooth application.
    • Inventory your makeup supplies before performance day to avoid any missing or empty items.
    • Clean your brushes and other supplies after each performance to maintain hygiene.
    • Thoroughly clean your face after each performance to remove sweat, bacteria, and old makeup.
    • Use foundation as the base for your makeup art to counteract the washing out of color under stage lights.
    • Remember that the further people are away from you, the more makeup you need, so stand back or ask someone in the audience for feedback during dress rehearsal.
    • Set your makeup with powder and a setting spray to ensure it lasts throughout the performance.
    • Check your makeup and blot perspiration when/if you get a chance during the performance.

    DON'T:

    • Share makeup products like mascara, lipstick, eyeliner, brushes, and combs to avoid sharing bacteria.
    • Trust new makeup products without doing a skin check first.
    • Treat your skin roughly; it's important to care for it well for long-term health.
    • Stay up all night before a performance, as being well-rested will help your makeup look its best.
    • Overdo your makeup; aim for a natural look unless your character requires otherwise.
    • Forget to apply foundation to visible areas like the neck, ears, etc., to avoid a mismatched appearance.
    • Wear your costume while putting on makeup to prevent staining; opt for a shirt that buttons or zips over the costume instead.

    These tips will help you achieve a flawless ballet makeup look while maintaining hygiene and professionalism.

    About Performance Tickets

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS THE POLAR EXPRESS, DECEMBER 2021

    Performance Ticket Information:

    • No Exchange or Refund: Please ensure you purchase tickets for the correct show, as we do not offer exchanges or refunds. Double-check all your dancer's information before making your purchase.
    • Digital Tickets Only: All tickets will be digital; no paper tickets will be issued.
    • Seating Policy: We do not reserve seats; it's your responsibility to purchase tickets in advance. Parents have the option to purchase tickets before the general public.
    • Additional Charges: Phone orders for tickets may incur additional charges.
    • Lap Seating Rule: Children under 3 may sit on laps (covered with robes if they are a dancer), provided they do not block the view of those behind them. Any child occupying an actual seat, regardless of age, must have a purchased ticket.
    • Ticket Guarantee: The only way to ensure seating availability for a performer is to purchase them a ticket. Dancers will remain backstage with their class during the show, and they can still enjoy the performance via a live feed projected in the dressing room. Due to limited seating, we kindly request SWEETS performer stay backstage to free up theater seats for the audience.
    • No Ticket Holds: We do not hold tickets without payment.
    • Sales Final: All sales are final at the time of purchase. While we encourage trading or exchanging tickets with peers, Weehawken Dance will not exchange tickets for a different performance.

    Ticket Outlets:

    • By Phone: Reserve your tickets by phone with a credit card at 970.318.0150. Please note there is a $1.00 convenience fee per ticket for all in-person/phone orders.
    • Online: Purchase tickets online with a credit card. Both reserved and general seating options are available.
    Purchase Tickets

    Reserved Section Seats Available:

    • Weehawken offers reserved seating for our audience members in the center rows 2-15.
    • Upon arrival at the theater, all reserved seats will have the buyer's NAME assigned to them by Weehawken.

    Performance Photos, Video & Live Stream

    Photography:

    • Flash Photography Prohibited: Please refrain from using flash photography during the performance.
    • Community Photography Contribution: We welcome contributions from our talented friends and supporters who are skilled photographers. Live action shots will be shared on our Facebook page as photographers share them. If you capture great moments, we encourage you to share your show pictures and tag Weehawken Dance in your Facebook post. Everyone loves to see the magic you capture at our performances!
    • Social Media Tagging: Once the show has opened, if you wish to post on social media, please remember to "tag" @weehawkendance and/or @weehawkencreativearts. Thank you for your cooperation!
    • Posed Photos: Families are invited to take posed photos against a Weehawken-themed backdrop in the Pavilion Lobby.

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS ALICE IN WONDERLAND, MAY 2024

    Livestream & Videography:

    • Livestream Available: A livestream of the show will be available, and we will share the link as the performance approaches.
    • Digital Video for Purchase: After the show, we will offer digital videos for purchase. More information will be available once editing is complete.

    Past Performance Videos

    WEEHAWKEN DANCE PRESENTS ALICE'S SWEETS, MAY 2024

    Did your dancer perform in a Weehawken show, but you missed downloading the video? Check out what's available online!