Dance Dawg Auditions

When are auditions typically held?

Usually mid/late April.

Are there any required skills to be on the team?

Required Skills: Pirouettes (Double, Triple, Quad turns), Turns a ’la seconde into combinations, Leaps (Grande Jete’, Turning Disc, Calypso, second leap), Kicks, Splits, Strong Pom Technique

Encouraged Skills: Headspring, Aerial, Kip up

Do I need prior cheer/dance experience to be on the team?

No. If you have an advanced understanding of the dance skills required, there is not a set amount of experience required.

What styles of dance do we perform?

Our styles include Jazz, hip-hop, and pom.

Are current members required to audition each season?

Yes. All returning members must go through the audition process each season.

If I make the team, will I have to pay any money to be a Dance Dawg?

No. We are fully funded by our athletic department.

What aspect of auditions is weighted the most?

Scoring system for tryouts: interview 15 points, hip-hop combo 20 points, jazz combo 20 points, across the floor (dance technique) 20 points, band dance (pom) 20 points, spirit 5 points for a total of 100 points. These point values were based on our 2023-24 audition process. These values are subject to future change.

What do judges look for in the audition process?

Judges are looking for poise, dance technique, memory, timing, showmanship, personality, and learning approach.

If I am unable to make the audition date, am I able to audition by video or be allowed to get an early/late audition at another time?

No. We do not accept video auditions or schedule early/late auditions. You must be present for the entire 2-day audition process.

How do you prepare for auditions and the interview portion?

Focus on stretching and your dance technique for the tryout process. Interview be prepared to introduce yourself and provide an overview of your background, education, and goals.

What do we wear for the interview portion?

Casual business attire

Any tips for auditions?

Be yourself and confident. Smile and have a good time meeting new people.

How should we wear our hair and are tights a requirement for auditions?

Your hair and make-up should be complementary and appropriate for an athletic environment. We do wear tights during the season; however, it is not a requirement for auditions.