Company Updates

IMPORTANT DATES

OCT. 11 | COSTUME FEE BALANCE DUE
OCT. 19 | TEAM OUTING TO PUMPKIN PATCH - SEE 10/2/24 UPDATE FOR DETAILS
OCT. 24-30 | HALLOWEEN SPIRIT WEEK & BRING A FRIEND WEEK!
OCT. 31 | CLOSED FOR HALLOWEEN (ENJOY THE HOLIDAY!)

REMINDERS

DANCERS: make sure you have joined our SZN 6 BAND APP GROUP! Click here to join> https://band.us/n/a5a1A2B4i3Zb5
SEASON 6 HANDBOOK

10.8.24 UPDATE

12/14 GOLF MILL HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITY | RESPONSES DUE SAT. 10/12
We will have a short performance at Golf Mill on Saturday, December 14th! Time slot TBD, but it usually falls some time between 11am-1:30pm. The below classes are set to perform; participation is optional, but we like to get as many dancers involved as possible! RESPOND IN BELOW RESPONSE FORM MON. 10/14 TO CONFIRM YOUR DANCER'S PARTICIPATION EITHER WAY!

Mon. 7:45-8:30PM Combo 3/4 (will rehearse during class time)
Tues. 6:30-7:00PM Hip Hop 3 & Tues. 7:30-8:15PM Hip Hop 4 (will rehearse Tuesdays 7:00-7:30PM Oct. 15 - Dec. 10)
- Any dancers interested in being part of our Hip Hop Company competitive team, which will start in January, are STRONGLY encouraged to enroll in Hip Hop 3 or Hip Hop 4 and participate in this performance! See below for further information.
Sat. 9:30-10:15AM Ballet 2 (will rehearse during class time)

HIP HOP COMPANY | STARTS JANUARY 2025
Any dancers placed in level 3 or 4 Hip Hop are invited to participate in our Hip Hop Company competitive routine for the season!

Must be enrolled in Hip Hop 3 or Hip Hop 4 as of 1/7/25
Available to rehearse Tuesdays, 7:00-7:30PM
Attend 2 competitions: Groove (May 2-4) & Showstoppers (May 9-11)
Costume Fee: $75-$100 due 1/17/25, plus required shoes
Competition Fees: est. $130 total ($65 per competition), due along with respective competitions' fees

We would like to gauge how many dancers are interested in participating in Hip Hop Company: PLEASE RESPOND IN BELOW RESPONSE FORM IF YOUR DANCER IS INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING IN HIP HOP COMPANY!

REMINDERS

REMINDER: *RESPONSE REQUIRED* COMPETITION PARTICIPATION SURVEY DUE 10/9 (SEE 10/2 UPDATE)
REMINDER: HOLLY JOLLY PERFORMANCE PARTICIPATION NOTIFICATION DUE 10/9 (SEE 10/2 UPDATE & BELOW)
STILL NEEDED: DRIVERS FOR 10/19 PUMPKIN PATCH OUTING (SEE 10/2 UPDATE)
- We still need 1-2 drivers to transport dancers! If your dancer is 16+ and planning to drive themselves (and any other Activ8 dancers), please let us know ASAP (we may have enough if any dancers are driving themselves).
REMINDER: COSTUME FEES BALANCE DUE FRI. 10/11
- Solo/Duet/Trio costume fees will be due at a later date, likely in November, after costumes have been chosen. Some dancers may also be asked to purchase costumes on their own, or may be able to rent costumes from Activ8. Look for an email regarding your dancer's solo/duet/trio costume(s) by the end of this month.

10.2.24 UPDATE

*ACTION ITEM - RESPONSE REQUIRED* COMPETITION PARTICIPATION SURVEY DUE 10/9
As the first round of competition fees are due on 10/11, we need to finalize our registration for each competition.

PRE-COMPANY & COMPANY DANCERS: Please click the link below to fill out our competition participation form BY WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9TH.
- CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT THE COMPETITION PARTICIPATION FORM
CORPS DANCERS: You do not need to fill out the form; our Corps dancers will participate in two competitions this season:
- WCTE Competition | April 25-27, 2025 in Chicago
- Groove Dance Competition | May 2-4, 2025 in TBD Chicagoland location

*ACTION ITEM* NILES HOLLY JOLLY FEST PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITY | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH
We are very excited to have the opportunity to perform at the Niles Holly Jolly Fest this year! During our time slot at the event, we are planning to put together one routine to perform, then Miss Ryanne will lead a short demo class, assisted by our Company dancers, and invite audience members to join in and learn a fun, easy holiday routine! Junior Corps, Pre-Company, & Company dancers are invited to participate in the performance, but all are encouraged to attend and participate in the demo class, and enjoy the Holly Jolly Fest activities!

Rehearsals: Thursdays, 6:30-7:00PM, Oct. 17-Nov. 21 (participating dancers won't even need to be here for any additional time; we will carve out a bit of time during our Thursday evening schedule for dancers learn the routine!) Dancers who are not participating will continue with Company Ballet during that time.
Performance Date & Time: Saturday, November 30th, 3:30-3:45PM (meet at Activ8 at 3:00PM)
Performance Location: Golf Mill Park

IF YOUR DANCER WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE, PLEASE EMAIL AND LET US KNOW BY WED. OCTOBER 9TH

The full Holly Jolly Fest event schedule is as follows:

2:00 - 5:00 PM Meet Santa Claus
2:00 - 6:00 PM Face Painting and Balloon Artists
3:00 - 5:00 PM Niles-Maine District Library Make & Take Craft
5:30 - 6:00 PM Village Tree Lighting & Fireworks
3:00 - 8:00 PM Food Tent, DJ Jules Entertainment, PACE Holly Trolley, Snow Globe Photos
3:00 - 7:00 PM S'mores, Petting Zoo & Horse Drawn Trolley Rides

TEAM PUMPKIN PATCH OUTING | SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19TH, 1:00-4:00PM
We are excited for day of fun and team bonding at Didier Farms! All dancers are expected to attend; if your dancer is NOT able to attend due to an unavoidable conflict, please let us know via email ASAP.

Itinerary:
- 1:00PM Meet at Activ8 to caravan to Didier Farms, 16678 Aptakisic Rd, Lincolnshire, IL 60069
  - *ACTION ITEM* We need a handful of parents to volunteer to drive some dancers to the farm and hang out with us for the day as chaperones! If you would like to volunteer, please email us and let us know how many dancers you can take in your vehicle.
- 1:30PM Arrive at Didier Farms
- 1:30-3:45PM Activities at Didier Farms
  - Pumpkin patch
  - Wagon ride
  - Corn/straw maze
  - Mechanical rides
  - Fall food/snacks
- 3:45PM Depart for Activ8
- 4:15PM Dancer pickup at Activ8
Cost: All dancers should bring $10 minimum to cover the cost of a wagon ride and maze, which we'll do together as a team!
- Entrance to the farm and parking is free
- Activities, such as the wagon ride, mazes, rides, etc. require tickets, which are $1 each. All dancers should bring at least $10 to participate in the wagon ride and maze with the team, and bring additional to purchase tickets for other rides/activities/etc.

*PRE-COMPANY ACTION ITEM* AYA CONVENTION LIABILITY WAIVER
Pre-Company is attending Activate Your Artistry Dance Convention on Saturday & Sunday, October 26-27 in Burr Ridge. We will have a schedule by 10/11, but please set aside the whole day, both days! (Daniela K, Garnet, Gia, Grace N, Madalena, Maya, Milla, Olivia)

*ACTION ITEM* PLEASE CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT THE LIABILITY WAIVER FOR YOUR DANCER ASAP!

DUET/TRIO & SOLO CHOREOGRAPHY SCHEDULING & FEE REMINDERS
We have begun scheduling duet/trio & solo choreography rehearsals. We will have everyone's duet/trios & solos done before the holiday break in December.

FEES: 50% of your solo and/or duet/trio tuition is due by the first choreography rehearsal
- Duet/Trio: $300/dancer flat fee total ($150 due at first rehearsal)
- Solo: $250/dancer flat fee total ($125 due at first rehearsal)
SCHEDULING BY CHOREOGRAPHER:
- Itzel: we will email a tentative rehearsal schedule within the next week
- Jadyn: scheduling was emailed on 10/1 for parent/dancer confirmation; we will confirm when rehearsals are locked in or with any modifications
- Karissa: all dancers have been scheduled; see Google calendar above and in band group
- Katy: all dancers have been scheduled; see Google calendar above and in band group
- Kimmy: look out for an email from Kimmy within the next week to schedule
- Ryanne: Ryanne will email when she is ready to schedule your dancer to begin choreography

*CALENDAR UPDATE* DRESS REHEARSAL SHOWCASE MOVED TO SAT. FEBRUARY 22ND
SAVE THE DATE! Our annual mandatory attendance in-studio dress rehearsal showcase has been moved up a week to Saturday, 2/22/25; this is a day when we run through all of our group routines (Corps, Pre-Company, & Company), with Production in FULL COSTUME & MAKEUP, and give our families a chance to see what we've been working on all season before we hit the stage! And gives us a chance to address any costume/hair/makeup issues that come up. We will still have costume & hair dress rehearsal in all of our group rehearsals during the following week, 2/24 thru 3/1. More details to come as we get closer to this date.

MISCELLANEOUS ANNOUNCEMENTS & REMINDERS

APPLE WATCHES: we have noticed dancers checking notifications/texting/etc on their Apple watches during class lately. Going forward, watches must be on do not disturb or airplane mode so that they are not distracting during class. If they continue to be an issue, Apple watches will be banned from the studio classrooms and will need to be left inside dance bags or at home during class. We will talk about this during Production this week.
DANCER BREAKS: Dancers age 10+ are welcome to hang out in the dancer den when they have breaks between classes/rehearsals at the studio; dancers under 10 must have a parent present during breaks or be picked up within 10 minutes of class ending. We must reiterate that Activ8 and its staff are not responsible for dancers outside of class time and outside of the studio itself. Please discuss with your dancer, especially those under 16 years old, if they are permitted to leave the studio to walk around the mall/shop when they are on breaks. We have mentioned to a few dancers that they must stay within our side of the mall and cannot go outside (to walk to Target/Panera for example). Safety is our number one priority, however, we do not have staff available to monitor and chaperone dancers in the mall. We will also talk about this with dancers during Production this week.
TARDINESS: We know most dancers do not drive themselves to class, however, it is very important that dancers are arriving at least 5-10 minutes early for class, so that they are inside their studio classroom, with shoes on, ready to dance when class begins! We have some dancers consistently arriving late; please do your best to build in extra time to your commute to the studio as traffic does get heavy around the mall. Dancers who are consistently late or more than 10 minutes late may be marked absent and required to schedule private lessons to make up for missed class time.
DRESS CODE SHOES: As we are now a month into classes, we do expect all dancers to have proper dress code and SHOES for all of their classes! Many of our dancers are missing ballet shoes - please be sure to order them ASAP!! Ill-fitting shoes are also not acceptable; if your dancer needs to remove them during class because they are painful/don't fit, new shoes need to be ordered. Any dancers without ballet shoes as of 10/8/24 (and not on the way) will be sized at the studio, shoes ordered, and charged to your account.

9.18.24 update

COMPANY PHOTOSHOOT | SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND

We are so excited for our OLD HOLLYWOOD GLAM photoshoot this season! Bring non-messy snacks and/or lunch so you can munch while you're waiting your turn. The itinerary for the day is as follows:
- 9:45AM Dancers arrive FULLY READY (you may arrive as early as 9:15AM if you'd like to use Studio 2 to finish getting ready)
  - Note: our photoshoot is a closed team-only event; parents must exit the studio by 10AM
- 10:00AM-12:00PM All Group Photos & Corps Individual Photos
- 12:00PM Corps pick up
- 12:00PM-3:00PM Pre-Company & Company Individual Photos
- 3:00PM All remaining dancers pick up
ATTIRE:
- ALL BLACK outfit, previously approved by Ryanne & Kimmy (scroll down to previous update for examples). ALL OUTFITS MUST BE APPROVED BY RYANNE & KIMMY - band message or email us with pictures before you order.
- Make sure you have appropriate undergarments for pictures! If wearing a dress, be sure to have all black spandex shorts underneath with NO LOGO/BRANDING!
HAIR: styled neatly down or half-up
MAKEUP: a slightly "glammed up" makeup look, LOTS OF MASCARA, and we welcome a little hollywood glam eye look with a red lip! Inspo pics below (we will have a red lipstick here with single use applicators for any dancers that need it)
JEWELRY: please remove jewelry (necklaces, rings, ankle bracelets, apple watches, etc.) and leave at home! You may wear small stud earrings.
NAILS: fingernails and toenails should be CLEAN or neutral in color! (plain french manicure, nude colors, light pinks are ok)
SNACKS: feel free to bring non-messy snacks and/or lunch to munch on while you wait your turn! Be sure to have a big tshirt/sweatshirt to put over your outfit so you don't get any stains on it while you eat!

COMMUNICATION REMINDERS

Parents: we prefer email communication, especially as it pertains to any classes, scheduling, registration, fees, etc. so that both Kimmy & Ryanne receive the messages, can handle the matter more promptly, and can easily track and reference communication. Messaging in the BAND app is intended to be used for quick things like "we're running late!"
BAND MESSAGES for parents & dancers: please GROUP MESSAGE Kimmy & Ryanne, so we are both kept in the loop and can more quickly respond!

DRESS CODE & SHOE REMINDERS
Dancers should be in full dress code for all classes, INCLUDING SHOES, by next week! Orders for dancewear & shoes from our studio store need to be placed by Sunday, September 22nd! Review our STUDIO HANDBOOK for dress code details.

9.4.24 update

*REMINDER* COMPANY BINDERS
All dancers need to provide a 1" black binder with a cover sleeve and inside pockets by Wed. 9/4 (Corps) or Thurs. 9/5 (Pre-Company & Company) for their own use. We will provide the contents for the binders, as we use them to journal and give the girls handouts of schedules and class information.

COMPANY FAMILY PICNIC | SAT. 9/7, 1:00-3:00PM | *RSVP DUE THURS. 9/5*
All Company dancers and their immediate family are invited to join us for a fun afternoon of games, activities, and mingling with our Season 6 team! And in this summer Olympics year, we'll be having our own Activ8-style Olympics, with some favorites like the marshmallow toss and hula hoop contest. Be sure to check your email for an evite on 9/2 to send your RSVP!

Where: Golf Mill Park, on Church St. between Greenwood & Milwaukee
When: Sat. 9/7, 1:00-3:00PM
What to bring: camp/lawn chairs, blankets, snacks to share, BYOB (no alcoholic beverages please)

BOTTLED WATER PUNCH CARDS NOW AVAILABLE - $20
Dancers often come to the desk for bottled water but don't have cash on hand, so we now have bottled water punch cards available for purchase in the parent portal store, via Zelle, or with cash at the front desk! Purchase a 20-bottle punch card and your dancer no longer needs to worry about remembering to follow up with payment. We will keep your dancer's punch card at the front desk for them and they can come by for a bottle of water when they need it! (Note: we CANNOT charge individual bottles of water to portal accounts - they must be paid for with cash at the front desk)

STUDENT ASSISTANT PROGRAM APPLICATION | DUE MONDAY 9/9
As mentioned at our end of season banquet last year, we will be starting a NEW Student Assistant Training Program for our competitive dancers. It's a great opportunity to get them more involved with our youngest dancers at Activ8, begin learning teaching fundamentals, and spread their positive influence across the studio!

All interested dancers must fill out the application by MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9. Once all applications are received, we will assign classes the following day (Tues, 9/10) and dancers will be required to start attending those weekly classes as a student assistant beginning the week of September 17.

>> FILL OUT THE STUDENT ASSISTANT PROGRAM APPLICATION HERE <<
*MUST BE PRE-COMPANY OR COMPANY MEMBER TO APPLY*

There will also be a short 30-minute training that they will be required to attend once they apply and are accepted. We will schedule that training once we have received all of the applications.

Let us know if you have any questions! We're looking forward to helping develop the next generation of teachers at Activ8!

8.24.24 UPDATE

COMPANY BINDERS
All dancers need to provide a 1" black binder with a cover sleeve and inside pockets by Wed. 9/4 (Corps) or Thurs. 9/5 (Pre-Company & Company) for their own use. We will provide the contents for the binders, as we use them to journal and give the girls handouts of schedules and class information.

ACTIVATE YOUR ARTISTRY (AYA) CONVENTION ATTENDANCE UPDATE

OCTOBER 26-27: @ Marriott Burr Ridge, 1200 Burr Ridge Pkwy, Burr Ridge, IL 60527
- ALL PRE-COMPANY (Daniela K, Garnet, Milla, Grace N, Gia, Maya, Madalena, Olivia)
NOVEMBER: @ Hyatt Regency Shaumburg, 1800 Golf Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60173
- November 23rd: JUNIOR CORPS (Meadow, Evelyn)
- November 23-24: COMPANY (Jess, Grace L, Daniela S)
We will receive full schedules a week before each event. Be sure to block out the full day(s) until then. More details to come.

PHOTOSHOOT UPDATE & DETAILS

When: Sunday, September 22, 2024
Time: 10:00AM - 3:00PM
- Corps dancers will be done by 12:00PM
Where: Activ8 Dance Company
Theme: Old Hollywood Glam (all black outfits); think Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's! No shoes. No tights. If wearing a dress, make sure you have black dance/spandex shorts to go underneath!
- Activ8 will provide accessories to wear with your outfit (gloves, pearl necklace, etc)
Hair & makeup: recommendations to come
All dancers will receive a digital copy of a headshot photo and two action dance shots. We will practice poses in our Corps & Production rehearsals in the weeks leading up to the photoshoot! We will also take team pictures.

ALL PHOTOSHOOT LOOKS MUST BE APPROVED BY KIMMY & RYANNE; PLEASE SEND US A GROUP BAND APP MESSAGE OR EMAIL WITH PICTURES OF YOUR OUTFIT CHOICE FOR APPROVAL.

DANCING FOR DANCERS COMMUNITY CLASS
Dancing for Dancers has invited our students to a special open Community Class with Eileen Mallary. This is a unique opportunity for dancers to connect with other in the community, and experience the joy of movement in and inclusive and supportive environment. All proceeds from this event will support the Dancing for Dancers scholarship program.

When: Sunday, September 8, 2024
Time: 10:30-11:30AM
Where: The Dance Project, 1706 W Algonquin Rd, Hoffman Estates, IL
Cost: $25
Style: Hip Hop
Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/71700017/dancing-for-dancers-community-class

8.7.24 UPDATE

ACTIVATE YOUR ARTISTRY (AYA) CONVENTION DATE CHANGE | RESPONSE REQUIRED BY 8/12
Unfortunately, the convention had a date change after our company meeting, so we need your feedback on which date works best to attend: Oct. 26-27 or Nov. 23-24. ALL JUNIOR CORPS & PRE-COMPANY DANCER PARENTS need to fill out the form, as attendance to this event is mandatory for these levels (Saturday only for Junior Corps). Depending on dancers' preferences/availability, we may have smaller groups attend each date. (Mini Corps dancers do not need to fill out)

CLICK HERE to fill out the form indicating your convention date preference
- Any Company dancers for whom this is optional and would like to attend must also fill out this form; if it is not filled out by 8/12, it will be assumed that you will not attend.
The convention is already 80% full so we need these forms filled out as soon as possible, please! If your dancer is required to attend and the form is not filled out by 8/12, we will assume they are available for the date with the majority of the responses.

SOLO/DUET/TRIO AUDITIONS | WED. 8/28
All Pre-Company and Company dancers interested in having a solo or duet/trio for competition this season must be in attendance at our last August Company Technique Class on Wednesday, August 28th, as we will have our audition during the last part of this class.

If you are absolutely unable to make it to this class, you must submit a video audition by 8PM on 8/28 via email or a band app group message to Miss Kimmy & Miss Ryanne.
VIDEO SUBMISSIONS: send us a 1-minute video of you improvising in the style of dance you would most like to perform for your solo or duet/trio. If interested in both, you must send a second video in your preferred style, as well.

Reminder: see the Company Handbook for Solo and Duet/Trio rates

SOLO/DUET/TRIO | MACKENZI GUEST CHOREOGRAPHY
For our returning students who are familiar with her, unfortunately, Miss Mackenzi will not be returning to Activ8 as part of our weekly teaching faculty this season. She's decided it's best for her to move back home to Ohio for the time being. We're very sad to see her go and will miss her this season, but we know you'll all join us in supporting her as she needs to do what's best for her health and well-being. However, for those interested in having her create their solo or duet/trio choreography, she has agreed to come in for a long weekend of choreography, if we have enough dancers.

Mackenzi's choreography rates are as follows:

Solo: $350 for 3 hours learning time with Mackenzi
- Additional: $25/mo January-May for monthly semi-private and open solo sessions
Duet/Trio: $210/dancer for 4 hours of learning time with Mackenzi
- Additional: $50/mo per dancer January-May for bi-weekly rehearsals to clean and rehearse

If you are interested in having Mackenzi choreograph your solo and/or duet/trio at the above rates, please respond to the update email by 8/12 and let us know, as we'll need to determine if we're going to move forward in scheduling a choreography weekend with her.

7.26.24 UPDATE

AUGUST SCHEDULE
As we spoke about in our company meeting, we will have a special schedule of choreography rehearsals and technique classes in August, to front-load our choreography and prepare for the regular season to start in September.

Attendance in choreography rehearsals is MANDATORY for all dancers cast in those routines. We did the best we could to make rehearsal times work for everyone with the availability we were given, but some dancers may need to make adjustments to their schedule in order to be in rehearsal. Dancers that are not in rehearsal may not be staged in to that routine, for the section learned that day or for the entire routine, at the discretion of the choreographer and Directors.
- SWINGS: if you are unable to attend August choreography rehearsals, be sure to get yourself caught up from videos, help from friends, and in our regular rehearsals.

ATTIRE: please wear ALL BLACK dancewear/activewear and a SLICK ponytail/bun/braid for all choreography rehearsals.

TECHNIQUE CLASSES:

Corps: dancers are expected to attend all technique classes unless they are scheduled at a time that your dancer was listed as unavailable in your registration form.
Pre-Company & Company: dancers are expected to attend technique classes scheduled before their competition routine rehearsals, and attend a minimum of 4 Company classes overall in August (ex: if you have two choreography rehearsals with a Company class scheduled beforehand, you must choose two additional Company classes to attend). Dancers are encouraged to attend ALL technique classes!

Mon. 8/12
- 5:30-6:15PM Corps Technique Class (All Mini & Junior Corps)
- 5:30-6:30PM Company Class (All Pre-Company & Company)
- 6:30-9:00PM Company Group 1 w/ Kimmy (Grace B, Jadyn, Nicole, Jess, Zenya, Garnet, Grace L, Ava, Sydney, Grace N, Gia, Itzel, Daniela + Swings: Maya, Madalena)
Tues. 8/13
- 5:30-6:30PM Company Class (All Pre-Company & Company)
- 6:30-9:00PM Pre-Company Group 1 w/ Ryanne (Daniela K, Garnet, Milla, Grace N, Gia, Maya, Madalena, Olivia)
Thurs. 8/15
- 5:30-8:00PM Pre-Company Group 3 w/ Kimmy (Garnet, Grace N, Gia, Maya, Madalena)
Mon. 8/19
- 5:30-6:15PM Corps Technique Class (All Mini & Junior Corps)
- 6:00-7:00PM Company Class (All Pre-Company & Company)
- 7:00-8:30PM Pre-Company Group 2 w/ Karissa (Garnet, Daniela K, Grace N, Gia, Maya, Madalena)
Wed. 8/21
- 5:30-9:00PM Production
  - Grace B, Jadyn, Nicole, Evelyn, Jess, Daniela K, Zenya, Garnet, Grace L, Ava, Sydney, Milla, Grace N, Gia, Itzel, Daniela S, Maya, Madalena, Olivia
Fri. 8/23
- 5:30-6:30PM Company Class (All Pre-Company & Company)
- 6:30-9:00PM Company Group 2 w/ Ryanne (Grace B, Nicole, Jess, Grace L, Ava, Sydney, Daniela S, + Swings: Garnet, Grace N, Gia)
Sat. 8/24
- 9:00-10:00AM Company Class (All Pre-Company & Company)
- 10:00AM-2:00PM Pre-Company Group 2 w/ Karissa (Garnet, Daniela K, Grace N, Gia, Maya, Madalena)
- 3:00-5:00PM Corps Group w/ Ryanne (Mikaela, Mia, Meadow, Evelyn, Fiona)
Mon. 8/26
- 5:30-6:15PM Corps Technique Class (All Mini & Junior Corps)
- 6:00-8:00PM Company Class (All Pre-Company & Company)
Tues. 8/27
- 6:00-8:00PM ALL COMPANY MOVIE NIGHT! (ALL DANCERS)
  - dancers are expected to attend unless listed as unavailable in your registration form
  - Corps dancers leave early if 8PM pickup is too late
Wed. 8/28
- 6:00-8:00PM Company Class (All Pre-Company & Company)

REGISTRATION & FALL SCHEDULE
Our regular schedule of classes begins on Tuesday, September 3rd! Your dancer has already been enrolled in classes based on the registration form you filled out for Company, and you can view their schedule in your parent portal! (Note: the August schedule will NOT show up in the portal)

If you'd like to enroll in additional classes, you can sign up via the portal starting on Mon. 7/29! Open enrollment for new students starts on 8/5; tell your friends!

SAVE THE DATE! SEASON 6 PHOTOSHOOT | SUN. 9/22
Our Season 6 Photoshoot is tentatively set for Sunday, September 22nd! Please block out the whole day!
*NEW* this season - we are taking a field trip to a professional photo studio in the downtown West Loop area of Chicago! More details to come! (Tentative alternative date is Sun. 9/29)

6.11.24 UPDATE

RECITAL HELP NEEDED! - TICKET SCANNERS

We are looking for 2-4 Company parents to help scan tickets before Show 1 on Sunday! You would need to arrive at 1:20PM to check in and receive instructions. You will simply stand at the doors to the theater to scan the tickets (you need a smart phone with a camera). At 1:55PM, Kimmy & Ryanne's dads will leave the merch tables to take over for you, so you can find your seat.
Please respond to the update email if you're able to help out! We would greatly appreciate it!

MODIFIED CLASS/REHEARSAL SCHEDULE | THURSDAY, JUNE 13TH

5:30 - 6:15PM | ALL COMPANY Class (ALL COMPANY DANCERS TO ATTEND)
6:15 - 8:15PM | ALL COMPANY REHEARSAL & SEASON END HANGOUT
- We will run all of our group routines for this weekend and have some fun team activities to finish the season!
- CANDY SALAD! Bring a package of your favorite candy (that can be shared) to put into our candy salad!

GRAVITATE RECITAL | COMPANY CALL TIME - 10:30AM

All company dancers should arrive at 10:30AM on Sunday, to get settled in the Company dressing rooms, warm up, and receive any further instructions for dress rehearsal.

REGISTER FOR SEASON 6 AUDITIONS

Don't forget to register for auditions! All dancers must fill out the form prior to auditions.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

REGISTER FOR SUMMER CLASSES BY 6/28

All dancers must pre-register for summer classes! Registration will be closed on 6/28 and classes with no/low enrollment will be removed from the schedule!
If you have purchased a 10-class punch card or the ULTIM8 Class Pass, you must register as a drop-in for each class/date you plan to attend!

5.14.24 UPDATE

COMPANY SEASON 5 BANQUET | THURSDAY, MAY 16TH

When: Thursday, May 16th | 6:00-8:00PM (NO CLASSES ON THIS EVENING!)
Where: D'Agostino's Pizza and Pub, 7530 W Oakton St, Niles, IL 60714 (head out to the East Patio when you arrive - to the right when you walk in the main entrance)
LET'S CELEBRATE! Get dressed up and join us for an evening of food, mingling, awards, photo ops, and more! Your ticket to the banquet includes a buffet dinner of pizza, wings, Italian Beef sandwiches, salad, and dessert in a private room reserved for our team!

HEADLINERS WEEKEND WARRIOR
CONGRATULATIONS, ITZEL!

We were so proud to see Itzel's positive attitude and
support of her teammates all weekend long!
During a long, intense weekend, her infectious energy really helped keep spirits lifted and brought good vibes to the room.
Itzel's dedication to maintaining a positive outlook, even in challenging moments, truly exemplified excellent sportsmanship and leadership.
WAY TO GO, ITZEL!

HEADLINERS MEDIA

CLICK HERE to access Headliners photos/videos
Password: CHi_A8D_3090$

REMAINING SOLO & DUET REHEARSALS

Solos/duets not performing in recital will have any remaining private lessons removed from the calendar.
Those performing in the show may keep their rehearsals as scheduled this month, or contact us via email to request to move any rehearsals closer to the show.

REGISTER FOR SUMMER CLASSES ASAP!

All dancers intending to audition again and be part of Company for the 2024-2025 season are required to take summer classes and attend ELEV8: The Intensive. This season, regular summer classes will run in the evenings for four weeks, July 9 - August 1, and we will finish up our summer with ELEV8 the following week, August 6 - August 8!
- REGISTER FOR AUDITIONS!! Returning members must audition for each season. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
REQUIREMENTS:
- ALL COMPANY | Minimum 10 summer classes total, plus three-day all access ELEV8
  - Must attend at least 3 ballet classes of the 10 required classes
VIEW THE SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE HERE! REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN ON DSP!
- Please be sure to set aside ELEV8 dates and plan ahead to meet your minimum class requirements!
NOTE: all company dancers MUST pre-enroll for their summer classes, to ensure you're meeting requirements and your classes stay open! Classes that do not have enough enrollment will be dropped and replaced! PLAN & REGISTER EARLY!
CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL SUMMER CLASS INFORMATION

4.25.24 UPDATE

*UPDATED* UPCOMING MODIFIED/EXTRA REHEARSALS

THE DANCE & COLD HEARTED MOVED: TUESDAY 4/23, 7:30-8:15PM (no rehearsal on Wed. 4/24)
*UPDATED* TOUCH REHEARSALS:
- WEDNESDAY 4/24, 8:30-9:00PM
- NO REHEARSAL on 4/27
- *ADDED* THURSDAY 5/2, 7:30-8:00PM
MODIFIED SCHEDULE THURS. 5/2
- 5:00-5:30PM Hints
- 5:30-6:00PM Production Pt 1
- 6:00-6:15PM BREAK
- 6:15-7:00PM Production Pt 2
  - dancers not in Felt Cute or Touch are done for the night at 7PM
- 7:00-7:30PM Felt Cute
- 7:30-8:00PM Touch

WORLD CLASS TALENT EXPERIENCE
WEEKEND WARRIOR
CONGRATULATIONS, DANIELA!

We are so proud of Daniela's perseverance and hard work, not only at competition and over these last several weeks,
but all season long! While handling some difficult circumstances, she's kept a positive attitude and always brings great energy to the studio - and competition this weekend was no exception!
We so appreciate Daniela's optimism, her kindness to and inclusiveness of all of her teammates, and unwavering support of her Activ8 family. She's truly shown what being a team player and being a great teammate is all about!
KEEP IT UP, DANIELA!

**ACTION REQUIRED** RSVP FOR COMPANY BANQUET | THURSDAY, MAY 16TH, 6:00-8:00PM

Who: all Activ8 Company dancers and their immediate families are invited! Siblings are welcome to join. (We do expect all dancers to attend!)
What: LET'S CELEBRATE! Get dressed up and join us for an evening of food, mingling, awards, photo ops, and more! (we will not have any classes on this evening) Your ticket to the banquet includes a buffet dinner of pizza, wings, Italian Beef sandwiches, salad, and dessert in a private room reserved for our team!
When: Thursday, May 16, 2024, 6:00-8:00PM
Where: D'Agostino's Pizza and Pub, 7530 W Oakton St, Niles, IL 60714
Cost: $32 per person

HEADLINERS COMPETITION PREPARATION

Please check your costumes and start packing for competition NOW to make sure you're not missing any pieces following our WCTE!
Please make sure tights have been washed and do not have any holes/runs/snags.
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE YOUR EARRINGS PLEASE!
Please STEAM costumes that are wrinkly so we're looking our best!
Look back at our previous updates for our general competition prep information to make sure you're prepared!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FINAL HEADLINERS COMPETITION SCHEDULE

4.11.24 UPDATE

UPCOMING MODIFIED/EXTRA REHEARSALS

MON. OPEN SOLO SESSION MOVED UP: MONDAY 4/15, 5:00-5:30PM
FELT CUTE MOVED: MONDAY 4/15, 8:00-8:45PM (no rehearsal on Thurs. 4/18)
THE DANCE & COLD HEARTED MOVED: TUESDAY 4/23, 7:30-8:15PM (no rehearsal on Wed. 4/24)
TOUCH REHEARSALS ADDED:
- WEDNESDAY 4/24, 8:30-9:00PM
- SATURDAY 4/27, 1:15-2:00PM
MODIFIED SCHEDULE THURS. 5/2
- 5:00-5:30PM Hints
- 5:30-6:00PM Production Pt 1
- 6:00-6:15PM BREAK
- 6:15-7:00PM Production Pt 2
  - dancers not in Felt Cute done for the night at 7PM
- 7:00-7:30PM Felt Cute
  - all dancers done by 7:30pm - get some rest for our final comp weekend!

REMINDER: PRE-COMPETITION MANDATORY ATTENDANCE PERIOD

Just a reminder that we are in our pre-competition mandatory attendance period now through Headliners! This means dancers need to have 100% attendance to ALL CLASSES & REHEARSALS. It's important that we're continuing to train and prepare ourselves so that we're going on stage at our absolute best!

COMPETITION WAIVERS

All parents should have received an email from WCTE to sign participant waivers; please be sure these have been completed!

COMPETITION PREPARATION

Please check your costumes and start packing for competition NOW to make sure you're not missing any pieces following our first competition! Please make sure tights have been washed and do not have any holes/runs/snags. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE YOUR EARRINGS PLEASE!
Look back at our previous updates for our general competition prep information to make sure you're prepared!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FINAL WORLD CLASS TALENT EXPERIENCE SCHEDULE

MASTER CLASS W/ ELYSE SKALKA | FRIDAY, MAY 10TH - MANDATORY ATTENDANCE

All dancers have already been enrolled for this class:
- 5:30-6:30PM PRE-COMPANY & JR. CORPS
- 6:30-8:00PM INTERMEDIATE & ELITE COMPANY
Since our January master class was cancelled due to weather, that fee will be used toward this master class and no fee is due at this time for our company dancers.
TELL YOUR FRIENDS!! These classes are open to the public!

RECITAL SOLO/DUET SHOW
If we did not hear from you following the last update, it is assumed and expected that your dancer is participating in the solo/duet show for recital. Therefore, our lineup of routines for the solo/duet show are as follows:

Sydney/Emma Duet
Garnet Solo
Maya Solo
Ava MT Solo
Ava Contemporary Solo
Emma Solo
Nicole Solo

Gia Lyrical Solo
Gia Jazz Solo
Sydney Solo
Evelyn Solo
Grace Solo
Madalena Solo

3.20.24 UPDATE

GRAVITATE RECITAL: SOLO/DUET SHOW PARTICIPATION - EMAIL RESPONSE REQUIRED

Scroll to the 11.3.23 update for further recital day scheduling and show assignments
As you may recall, we are having a separate solo & duet show this season for a few different reasons:
- the number of solo/duet routines increases every year, making it necessary to have two shows
- we are mindful of the fact that our shows fall on Father's Day (the only day we were able to secure a venue), so we wanted to make sure we kept things as quick and compact as possible for those celebrating, while still giving our soloists and duets an opportunity to perform if they would like
Participation is optional; please email us and confirm either way if your dancer's solo and/or duet will participate in our solo/duet show

ID DANCE COMPETITION WEEKEND WARRIOR
CONGRATULATIONS, MAYA!

We were so very proud of Maya's energy, attitude, growth, and sportsmanship all weekend at ID!
She showed up, literally and figuratively, for her teammates all weekend long, coming in to watch the early early morning solos on Saturday and being a huge cheerleader for every dancer!
Maya brought such a fun, positive attitude and energy to the room and to the stage all weekend long, and she truly shined as everything we expect of our Activ8 dancers!
WAY TO GO, MAYA!

ID DANCE COMPETITION PHOTOS & VIDEOS
Reminders:

DO NOT POST ANY VIDEOS PLEASE - photos only
please only post photos that include your own dancer
if posting on social media, it'd be appreciated if you would tag Activ8, the choreographer for the routine pictured, and the competition!
- Instagram handles:
  - @activ8dancecompany
  - @ryanneadance
  - @mackenzidances
  - @katya_choreo
  - @misskimmydance
  - @iddancecomp

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ID PHOTOS & VIDEO

SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE PREVIEW & COMPANY REQUIREMENTS

All dancers intending to audition again and be part of Company for the 2024-2025 season are required to take summer classes and attend ELEV8: The Intensive. This season, regular summer classes will run in the evenings for four weeks, July 9 - August 1, and we will finish up our summer with ELEV8 the following week, August 6 - August 8!
REQUIREMENTS:
- ALL COMPANY | Minimum 10 summer classes total, plus three-day all access ELEV8
  - Must attend at least 3 ballet classes of the 10 required classes
VIEW THE SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE HERE! REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN ON DSP!
- Please be sure to set aside ELEV8 dates and plan ahead to meet your minimum class requirements!
NOTE: all company dancers MUST pre-enroll for their summer classes, to ensure you're meeting requirements and your classes stay open! Classes that do not have enough enrollment will be dropped and replaced! PLAN & REGISTER EARLY!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL SUMMER CLASS INFORMATION

3.6.24 UPDATE

MODIFIED REHEARSALS THIS WEEK
As we will be listening to our competition critiques, we will have some combined/shorter rehearsals on Wednesday and Thursday this week:

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6TH
- 5:45-6:15PM THE DANCE & COLD HEARTED REHEARSAL
- 6:15-8:30PM Regular class schedule (PBT 4, Turns & Leaps 4, Combo 4)
- 8:30PM ALL DANCERS DONE FOR THE EVENING
THURSDAY, MARCH 7TH
- 5:00-5:30PM FELT CUTE REHEARSAL
- 5:30-7:00PM Regular class schedule (Ballet Tech 3/4, Turns & Leaps 3/4, Tap 2)
- 7:00-7:30PM PRODUCTION REHEARSAL
- 7:30-7:45PM HINTS REHEARSAL
- 7:45PM ALL DANCERS DONE FOR THE EVENING

ID COMPETITION PICTURES & VIDEOS - $67/dancer
To get the biggest savings for everyone, we have purchased all of the media (groups, duets, & solos) for ID and will share them via Google drive at the beginning of this week, once everything comes available and we’ve had a chance to upload. It is $67 per dancer to gain access to ALL of your photos/videos (groups, solos, & duets). You will receive the link after you have submitted payment, via the portal, Zelle ([email protected]), or check.

We are still waiting for the high resolution photos and videos to be posted to our account, which may take up to 14 days. Once these are posted to our account, we will put them into our Google drive and share the links with everyone who has submitted their payment.

Reminder: please DO NOT post any videos on social media. You may share photos.

2.26.24 UPDATE

UPCOMING MODIFIED REHEARSALS

Felt Cute (Kimmy Teen Jazz) | Nicole, Lily, Emma, Itzel, Daniela
- EXTENDED 8:00-9:00PM on 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26
  - Monday Open Solo Sessions in February have been cancelled; they will resume in March. Dancers should attend Sat. 2/10 & and Wed. 2/28 sessions instead.
Cold Hearted & The Dance (Mackenzi Teen Jazz & Contemporary) | Jadyn, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel, Nicole (swing)
- MOVED 7:30 - 8:15PM, Tues. 2/27
  - both Cold Hearted & The Dance will rehearse on Tuesday
- 5:45 - 6:15PM, Wed. 2/28 will be OPEN SOLO/DUET SESSION instead
  - there will be no rehearsals 8:30-9:00PM on 2/28
MODIFIED SCHEDULE THURS. 2/29

STUDIO 1

5:30-6:15PM Ballet Technique 3/4
6:30-7:00PM Hints Rehearsal
7:00-8:30PM Production & Pre-Comp Hangout

STUDIO 2

6:00-6:30PM Tap 2
6:30-7:00PM Turns & Leaps 3/4

CLICK HERE FOR ID FINAL SCHEDULE

ADDITIONAL REMINDERS/INFO:

Check that you have everything and pack up your costumes/shoes/bags EARLY!! Be sure you have everything ahead of time! We cannot make fixes the day of competition if you find you're missing something. Any costumes your dancer hasn't received yet will be handed out by Thursday this week.
LABEL EVERYTHING, especially your shoes (INSIDE)!! If there is a place to label your costume pieces, without it showing or bleeding through the fabric, please do so! We recommend getting garment bags for each costume and putting the checklist for that routine ON THE BAG.
STEAM COSTUMES - please take costumes out of bags this week and make sure they look nice! If they're particularly wrinkled, please STEAM them; DO NOT IRON COSTUMES! DO NOT WASH COSTUMES! We do not have time to replace damaged costumes!!
STAY ORGANIZED IN THE DRESSING ROOM: we recommend bringing a laundry basket or something similar so that your dancer can toss everything in the basket when they're changing, especially if they have multiple routines and somewhat quick changes. This will ensure that they don't just toss their things somewhere near their stuff and we lose pieces. Then it's easy to just reorganize from everything in the basket at home.

SEE BELOW UPDATES FOR FURTHER INFORMATION!

2.17.24 UPDATE

UPCOMING MODIFIED REHEARSALS

Felt Cute (Kimmy Teen Jazz) | Nicole, Lily, Emma, Itzel, Daniela
- EXTENDED 8:00-9:00PM on 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26
  - Monday Open Solo Sessions in February have been cancelled; they will resume in March. Dancers should attend Sat. 2/10 & and Wed. 2/28 sessions instead.
*UPDATED* Cold Hearted & The Dance (Mackenzi Teen Jazz & Contemporary) | Jadyn, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel, Nicole (swing)
- MOVED 7:30 - 8:15PM, Tues. 2/27
  - both Cold Hearted & The Dance will rehearse on Tuesday
- 5:45 - 6:15PM, Wed. 2/28 will be OPEN SOLO/DUET SESSION instead
  - there will be no rehearsals 8:30-9:00PM on 2/28
Touch (Teen Group 4) | Ava, Emma, Sydney, Itzel
- *EXTENDED* 1:30-3:30PM, Sat. 2/24
*NEW* MODIFIED SCHEDULE THURS. 2/29

STUDIO 1

5:30-6:15PM Ballet Technique 3/4
6:30-7:00PM Hints Rehearsal
7:00-8:30PM Production & Pre-Comp Hangout

STUDIO 2

6:00-6:30PM Tap 2
6:30-7:00PM Turns & Leaps 3/4

SHOWCASE & PIZZA PARTY | THURS. 2/22

DANCER ATTIRE, HAIR, & MAKEUP
- Dancers should wear black leggings and a black leotard/tank top/tshirt (no baggy tees) for the showcase, for all routines we won't be running in costume
  - We will be running Production in costume, and Felt Cute, Hints, Cold Hearted, The Dance, Look At Me, & Knocking on Heaven's Door in our all-black attire
- HAIR: slick center part low ponytail braid. Please be sure to use hair ties the same color as your hair! Double and triple up! (EXCEPT for dancers who have alternative hair instructions for Production)
- MAKE UP: everyone is doing full competition make up for the showcase. See the previous updates for instructions. Dancers that are in class/rehearsal earlier DO NOT need to put lipstick on until right before we start the showcase. They should arrive at the studio 90% ready, though! We recommend having eye makeup and lashes done.
- SHOES: Dancers must bring all dance shoes for each group routine they are in!

PARENTS
- BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR! We have about 10 folding chairs and high top chairs available for use, so please feel free to bring a folding/camping chair for yourself if you have one, or a blanket to sit picnic style for the pizza party and during showcase. Our cubby benches will be unavailable for seating.
- Don't forget to bring $5 per person (plus for your dancer) cash, check, or Zelle for the pizza party!
- PROP PARENT VOLUNTEERS! When we are at competition, we will need some parents to help us for our Production routine, to assemble the platforms backstage, carry them on and off stage for the performance, and disassemble afterward. We would like to practice this during the showcase. Please let us know if you'll be able to help at competition and practice this at the showcase.

ID DANCE COMPETITION INFORMATION & TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
ID DANCE COMPETITION
March 1-3, 2024
Donald E Stephens Convention Center
5555 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018

CLICK HERE FOR THE TENTATIVE COMPETITION SCHEDULE
*This may change slightly, but routines will most likely stay on the same day and around the same time. We will send the final schedule when it comes available.

COMPETITION 101

Please read through the below information thoroughly for some competition basics, parent & dancer etiquette, and dancer reminders!

What is CALL TIME? This is the time dancers need to meet up with the Directors IN THE DRESSING ROOM at the venue, with competition hair and makeup fully complete (lipstick can go on after you arrive). Our call times are at least 90min before our first performance of that section of competition (or when doors open) so that we have time to do any touch ups, warm up, practice, and get dressed before the performance. See the tentative schedule for your dancer's call times. DO NOT BE LATE!! Competitions sometimes run up to an hour ahead and we need to be ready to go on early, if needed!

What should my dancer wear to the competition venue? Dancers should wear their Activ8 company jacket, any black bottoms, and an Activ8 shirt, along with any flesh-tone undergarments (and tights if needed) to the venue. They will also wear this on stage and must remain in their competition hair and makeup for awards.

What should we bring with us?
- All costumes, tights, shoes, accessories, plus extras, needed for the day. CLICK HERE FOR UPDATED COSTUME CHECKLIST
- Extra hair items (hair ties, bobby pins, gel/hairspray, etc)
- Competition makeup
- Water and/or sports drinks (no sodas, overly sugary drinks, frappuccinos, etc. until your dancer is done performing for the day please!)
- Snacks that FUEL YOUR BODY - our focus is on eating foods that make us feel good before we go on stage! Recommendations: protein (nuts, cheese, sandwiches, etc), veggies, fruit, crackers, pretzels. Go crazy on the Portillo's, Mickey D's, candy, chips, etc. after your dancer is finished performing for the day!!
- Don't forget to EAT BREAKFAST!!! Starting the day with a high protein breakfast is the best way to fuel up for a day of dance!
- Check out this post for some great info and recommendations! https://www.instagram.com/p/CcVtXRDpzRO/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Can parents/family/friends watch? Is there an admission fee? Yes! Spectators are welcome to watch; entry is free. However, only dancers, teachers, and ONE female parent/guardian are allowed in the dressing room; dressing rooms are typically crowded and dancers are trying to get in the right mindset for their competition day. It's important that we don't have too many people around so our dancers aren't distracted and can focus on being their best on stage! Only dancers and teachers are allowed backstage and in the hallways/on deck areas when we are warming up and practicing. After dancers have arrived and gotten settled in the dressing room, ALL parents/friends/family will need to make their way to the audience and remain there until after their dancer's last performance; please do not come to the dressing room to congratulate your dancer on their performance until all of our routines for that section have performed, or if they have over an hour-long break.

Is there a livestream so family/friends can watch from home? Yes! https://www.iddancecomp.com/livestream

When are awards? What happens at awards? At the end of each section of competition, the routines that just competed will receive their awards. All dancers MUST stay for their awards. Dancers must remain at the venue between their performance and awards, unless there's at least an hour of performances remaining; we don't want to miss them! All spectators will sit in the audience and dancers will sit on stage with the team to hear their awards announced. After awards has finished, if your dancer is done performing for the day, you are free to leave! There are a few kinds of awards that routines may receive:
- Adjudication: Every routine receives an adjudication, which shows where their score falls on the competition's general scale of awards; 3 judges can award up to 100 points per routine, giving a dancer a final total score out of 300. At ID, routines can receive a High Gold, Platinum, Iconic Platinum, or Ultra Iconic. This is where you are essentially "competing against yourself" - just trying to get your own best score.
- Overall High Point Awards: This is where scores are ranked against each other for that particular division; 10th Place, 9th Place, 8th Place.....2nd Place, 1st Place. Routines are only competing against their own age division (Mini, Junior, etc), level (Novice, Intermediate, Elite), and type (Solo, Duet/Trio, Small Group, etc) of routine. For example, Teen Intermediate Solos are only competing against the other Teen Intermediate Solos for overall high point awards. Senior Elite Small Groups are competing only against other Senior Elite Small Groups for Overall High Point Awards.
- Special Judges' Awards: Routines may also receive special awards, like "Most Entertaining" or "Best Costume", which the judges hand out to routines they saw something special in and want to recognize.
- ID Icon Awards: At ID, any routine may win the ID ICON award, setting off the lights and sirens - make sure you cheer loudly when this happens! These are awarded when the judges see a routine with something extra special that they want to recognize. After the routine finishes, you'll see lights and hear sirens and the routine will receive their award immediately and be interviewed on stage by the emcee.

Do we need to be there the whole weekend? No. Your dancer is only required to be at competition for their section of performances, from their call time through their awards ceremony. However, dancers are welcome and encouraged to come support their teammates!
PHOTOS & VIDEOS: For ID, we plan to purchase all of the media and split the cost among dancers. Stay tuned for further information and costs.
ID IMPROV CHALLENGE COMPETITION: At ID, any dancers who want to participate in the improv (improvisation) competition, are welcome to! Just register at the registration table when you arrive at competition. It is $30 to enter. Dancers should bring dancewear if they plan to participate. Dancers will improv to songs chosen by ID Dance on stage during the challenge. The Improv Dance Off is offered for 11&under and 12&over. Scholarships presented include: Millennium Dance Complex LA, Fuzion Force LA, Broadway Dance Center NY & more! Dancers will be awarded a banner, scholarship and cash prize for winning the Improv Dance Off. Runner ups will be awarded and announced.

DANCER REMINDERS

REMOVE ALL NAIL POLISH FROM FINGERS AND TOES - clean nails or a neutral polish are required (french manicure, very light pink, nude tones are ok)
REMOVE ALL JEWELRY & EXTRA EAR PIERCINGS - we have clear piercing placeholders if needed
BE SAFE, BE SMART! - please make sure you're taking precautions in your activities outside of Activ8 these next couple of weeks, and throughout the competition season!! We strongly recommend avoiding things that could result in injury (like trampoline parks, skating, etc).
AWARDS ATTIRE: Activ8 company jacket, plain black bottoms, Activ8 t-shirt or tank. Please remain in competition hair and makeup for awards.

DANCER & PARENT ETIQUETTE

Clap for all dancers/routines and cheer loudly, especially for our dancers! While not everyone around us may display good theatre etiquette, let's be a good example!
Stay seated during performances; please only stand or walk through rows and aisles between performances.
Please do not sit in the first 1-2 rows of the theater, especially if they are labeled as teacher seats. Teachers are literally running from backstage to the auditorium to quickly sit and watch routines on stage from the front, then run backstage again. Even if you see other studios ignoring this rule, please set a good example for and as the Activ8 team.
Keep talking to a minimum.
Take phone calls in the lobby only.
Absolutely NO NEGATIVE COMMENTS about any performances, dancers, costuming, etc. in the audience/lobby/dressing rooms/anywhere - there are little dancer ears, parent ears, family ears, and studio owner/director ears all over the place, including our own Activ8 dancers! Leave the judgement for the competition judges ;)
Only females are allowed in the dressing rooms, and just one parent/guardian per child. Any additional family members or friends must remain in the audience/lobby.
ABSOLUTELY NO PHOTO OR VIDEO ALLOWED IN THE AUDITORIUM - PUT THE PHONES AWAY. If competition staff sees recording in the audience, they WILL take points off of our scores or may disqualify our routines. We are purchasing photos and videos of all performances, so you don't need to take your own! You can take as many photos and videos in the lobby as you'd like. Please be sure to share this rule with any family and friends that may attend to watch the competition - if they cannot abide by these rules, they need to stay home!
NO POSTING VIDEOS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: once we do receive our competition media, please do not post video of any of our routines on social media until the END OF THE SEASON. You may share anything that we post on official Activ8 accounts. However, no competition routine videos may be shared until our competition season has ended.

2.7.24 UPDATE

UPCOMING MODIFIED REHEARSALS

Felt Cute (Kimmy Teen Jazz) | Nicole, Lily, Emma, Itzel, Daniela
- EXTENDED 8:00-9:00PM on 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26
  - Monday Open Solo Sessions in February have been cancelled; they will resume in March. Dancers should attend Sat. 2/10 & and Wed. 2/28 sessions instead.
*UPDATED* Cold Hearted & The Dance (Mackenzi Teen Jazz & Contemporary) | Jadyn, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel, Nicole (swing)
- MOVED 7:30 - 8:15PM, Tues. 2/27
  - both Cold Hearted & The Dance will rehearse on Tuesday
- 5:45 - 6:15PM, Wed. 2/28 will be OPEN SOLO/DUET SESSION instead
  - there will be no rehearsals 8:30-9:00PM on 2/28
Touch (Teen Group 4) | Ava, Emma, Sydney, Itzel
- *EXTENDED* 1:30-3:30PM, Sat. 2/24

DRESS REHEARSAL WEEK! | MON. FEB 12 - SAT. FEB 17

During dress rehearsal week, we practice our competition routines in full costume & competition hair during our regular rehearsal time that week. This is a chance for us to make sure everyone knows how to do their hair & makeup properly, and make sure we see any last minute issues with costumes. On Thursday 2/22, we will have our in-studio showcase with our Production dress rehearsal, and we will also run through all other group routines.
- THURS. 2/15 will NOT be dress rehearsal for Production - this will be on 2/22.
IN-STUDIO SHOWCASE ATTIRE: dancers must wear black leggings and a black t-shirt/tank top/leotard to rehearse our other groups.
CLICK HERE FOR OUR COMPETITION COSTUME CHECKLIST (solo/duet checklist to come)
- We will hand out costumes and tights during dress rehearsal week and the following week.
- Make sure you have all required shoes, necessary undergarments, make up, etc. Any shoes that have been ordered can be picked up from the desk this week.
HAIR & MAKE UP
- Dancers need to wear COMPETITION READY HAIR each day they have a competition routine rehearsal at the studio. SLICK center part low ponytail that is then braided (hair ties, matching your hair color, at the base of the ponytail and at the end of the braid); use hairspray and/or gel and AT LEAST two hair ties on each end!! Hair should not fall out while dancing! NO WISPIES!
- THURSDAY 2/22 is the only day dancers need to wear competition make up - we will not have Ballet Technique and Turns & Leaps class on this day; dancers they should arrive 90% ready for dress rehearsal at 5:30PM, then can finish getting ready (do any touch ups and apply lipstick) before we start showcase/dress rehearsal.
  - Make Up: ALL DANCERS must have the following items for our team stage makeup look
    - Eyeshadow: Rimmel London Magnif'eyes BLUSH Edition (shadow primer recommended)
    - Lashes: Ardell Demi Wispies fake eyelashes & any black mascara
    - Eyeliner: Any black eyeliner
    - Blush: Any medium-dark pink color
    - Lipstick: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Vampire Love

UNDERGARMENTS

all dancers will need flesh tone leotard, or bra top with clear back strap & flesh tone undies

Recommendations:

IN-STUDIO SHOWCASE & PIZZA PARTY | THURSDAY 2/22, 6:15-8:15PM

PARENTS: RSVP to attend the in-studio showcase if you haven't already in the 1.31.23 update below.
- We have several folding chairs and benches available for seating, but you're welcome to bring in more comfortable camp chairs as seating for yourself if you'd like! Note: you'll be required to remove your shoes in the studio - bring some socks and/or slippers!

SOLO DRESS REHEARSAL | SATURDAY 2/24, 12:15-1:15PM

Soloists will run their routines in full costume and hair during our Open Solo Session on Sat. 2/24. Competition makeup is not required for this.
Please be sure to bring/wear all necessary undergarments needed for your solo costume on this day.

DUET DRESS REHERSALS

Duets will have dress rehearsal during their regular Wednesday rehearsal time:
- Wed. 2/14, 5:00-5:45PM | Sydney & Emma
- Wed. 2/21, 5:00-5:45PM | Ava & Itzel

1.31.24 UPDATE

UPCOMING MODIFIED REHEARSALS
- Look At Me (Pre-Teen Jazz) | Garnet, Grace, Gia, Maya, Madalena
  - EXTENDED 9:00AM - 10:15AM, Sat. 2/3

VOLUNTEERS STILL NEEDED!
- STEAMING COSTUMES - please email us if you're available to help for any period of time during any of the below times:
  - Thurs. 2/1 | 7:00 - 9:00PM
  - Sat. 2/3 | 10:30AM - 12:15PM
  - Mon. 2/5 | 5:30 - 9:00PM
  - Wed. 2/7 | 6:45 - 9:00PM
  - Thurs. 2/8 | 7:00 - 9:00PM
  - Sat. 2/10 | 10:30AM - 1:15PM

SUPER BOWL SQUARES FUNDRAISER --> DOWNLOAD YOUR GAME BOARD HERE!
- Our annual Super Bowl Squares Fundraiser is here! The fundraiser begins NOW and you can take entries up to game time! This is an individual fundraiser, so everything you make will go directly to the individual dancer. Each sheet can make you $500, which will cover a lot of your competition entry fees for this season!
  
  HOW IT WORKS:
  - Step 1: Print out the blank Super Bowl Squares template (we will have copies that you can take home available at the front desk)
  - Step 2: Sell squares to family and friends for $10 per square; they, or you, fill their name into whichever white squares they want - one name per square. (Collect cash, Venmo payment, or check made out to the dancer's parent) - participants can buy as many squares as they want! (you'll turn in $ to the studio afterward, to be put directly toward YOUR dancer's competition fees)
  - Step 3: After the board is full, dancers will fill in numbers 0-9 in each of the grey squares in the top row and left side column. The winner will be determined by these numbers at the end of the Super Bowl.
  - Step 4: Determining the winner: at the end of the game, look at the last/second digit in the score of each team and circle that number in their respective numbered row - the square that corresponds to those numbers is the winner! For example: if the score ends SF: 28 to KC: 24, the winner be the person whose square lines up with the 49ers' #8 row and the Chiefs’ #4 column)
  - At $10 per square, the whole board will bring in $1000 - the winner will take $500 and the remaining $500 goes to the Activ8 dancer!
- Tip #1: Use social media , Zelle and Venmo to your advantage! Dancers are encouraged to make a video appealing to your family and friends - tell them why dance is important to you and how participating in our fundraiser is helpful! And payment apps like Venmo make it super easy to collect money!
- Tip #2: If you don't fill the entire board by the day of the game, you can fill in the rest of the squares with WILD CARD. This way, if the score ends up in a blank square, you can take all of the names in your squares and do a random drawing for the winner! Miss Ryanne did this a couple of years ago for a few empty squares and it made the final outcome even more exciting!

*UPDATED* PARENT IN-STUDIO SHOWCASE & PIZZA PARTY | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 6:15-8:15PM
- It's time to enjoy the hard work your dancers have put in and celebrate! On Thurs. 2/22, will have an all-Company dress rehearsal, and we invite parents to come in and watch your dancers perform! We will also do a run through of several other group routines. Due to our limited studio space, 2 people per family may attend - RSVP BELOW for your 1-2 people who are attending (do not include your dancer in your RSVP)
- $5 PER PERSON for Pizza, Salad, Breadsticks (cash, check, or Zelle only, due by 2/20)
  - To make things easy, we've decided to order in and have a pizza party! (We do need a parent to stop and pick up the food on their way to Activ8 - please email us if you'd like to volunteer!)
- ITINERARY
  - 5:15PM | Dancers to arrive to finish getting ready, warm up, & set up
  - 6:15PM | Pizza Party time!
  - 7:00 - 8:00PM | Showcase
  - 8:00 - 8:15PM | Meeting
    - For the last 15-20 minutes, we will have a meeting to talk about competition weekends and what to expect.
- Further showcase details to come in next update.

1.11.24 UPDATE

REMINDERS
- ORDER COMPETITION SHOES ASAP (see 12.12.23 update below for further information)
  - For those who have not placed their order by 1/15, we will charge your account and order shoes for your dancer based on the street shoe size we have on file, so that we can ensure all dancers have their shoes in time for competition. Shipping for any returns/exchanges for incorrect sizes in this case will be charged to your account.
- CALENDARS
  - If you have questions about the calendar (extra rehearsals, private lessons, etc), please check the calendar at the top of this page or in band! These are linked to each other and are updated regularly. You can also check the calendar in the parent portal. The Google calendar above and the calendar in Band will always be the most up-to-date; when in doubt, follow those calendars.
- MAKE UP CLASSES
  - Please make sure your dancer is completing make ups for any missed technique classes (ballet, turns & leaps, stretch & strength, combo) WITHIN TWO WEEKS of the absence. If you know you have an upcoming absence, you may also complete make up classes beforehand. Dancers with an excess of incomplete make up classes may be pulled from competition routines until they have completed their make ups.
- RECITAL CLASSES & COSTUME FEES
  - The below classes that Company dancers are enrolled in are also "recital classes", which will perform in our annual GRAVITATE recital showcase in June, and will have a costume fee due on February 1st (note: these are not competition routine classes - they perform in the June recital only):
    - Mon. Combo 3/4
    - Tues. Hip Hop 1/2
    - Tues. Lyrical 1/2
    - Tues. Hip Hop 3/4
    - Tues. Acro 3/4
    - Tues. Ballet 3
    - Wed. Combo 4
    - Sat. Acro 1/2
    - Sat. Ballet 2
    - Sat. Acro 2/3
    - Sat. Combo 3
    - These classes are still TBD, pending enrollment:
      - Mon. Ballet 3/4
      - Thurs. Tap 2

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
- PROP PAINTING
  - The Mulhern Family spent their winter break building us some AWESOME wooden platform props for our Production routine (THANK YOU!) and now we just need some help painting them all black for the stage. Paint & supplies will be provided. If you can come by during any of the below times to help paint, please email us and let us know: [email protected]
    - Thurs. 1/18, 1/25 | 7:00-9:00PM
    - Sat. 1/20, 1/27 | 10:30AM-1:15PM
- COSTUMES
  - We also need help with costumes! If you would like to help with rhinestoning, steaming, or cutting (just need length cut off some costumes - no sewing needed), please let us know: [email protected]
    - Mon. 1/15, 1/22 | 5:30-9:00PM
    - Wed. 1/17, 1/24 | 6:30-9:00PM
    - Thurs. 1/18, 1/25 | 7:00-9:00PM
    - Sat. 1/20, 1/27 | 10:30AM-1:15PM

EXTRA SOLO & DUET PRIVATE LESSON BOOKING NOW OPEN ($50/hr)
- If you would like to book additional private lessons to rehearse a solo or duet, beyond the already regularly scheduled rehearsals (see schedule in 12.12.23 update and above on calendar), you may now do so through the DSP portal under Appointments/Private Lessons. You can schedule these privates with any teacher that has availability.
- DUETS: check the calendar for openings then contact us to book the lesson, please.
- NOTE: Any cancellations after 2PM on the day of the lesson or no-shows cannot be refunded or have credit forwarded.

DANCING FOR DANCERS PERFORMANCE | SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024
- What: Dancing for Dancers is a local non-profit organization, created to support dancers in need. The Dancing for Dancers Benefit Concert Series was created to give dancers the opportunity to perform and connect with other dancers in their community. Proceeds from the performances go towards providing scholarships to dancers in need. The concerts are the heart of the organization and the performers are truly Dancing for Dancers!
- Who: "Cold Hearted Snake" dancers (Jadyn, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel)
- Where: James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts | 19351 W Washington St, Grayslake, IL 60030
- When: Sunday, January, 28, 2024
  - 9:30 AM | PERFORMER CALL TIME
  - 10:00 AM-12:00 PM | DRESS REHEARSAL (dancers & teachers ONLY)
  - 1:00-3:00 PM | SHOW
    - ALL Activ8 dancers, parents, friends, etc. are invited to attend! We would love to see the rest of our Company dancers there to support their teammates for the first performance of the season!
    - PURCHASE TICKETS HERE! Parents/family/friends who want to see the show need to purchase a ticket.

DRESS REHEARSAL WEEK | FEBRUARY 12-17
- Two weeks before our first competition, all of our Company routine rehearsals will have dress rehearsal during their usual class time - we will put on costumes just like we would wear them on stage, with all the proper undergarments, shoes, and full competition hair, so that we can be sure we're looking stage ready! During this week, we will hand out costumes and tights for dancers to take home.
- Dancers must have all shoes and hair/make-up supplies needed by this week. Dancers will need to come to class every day that week with competition-ready hair. We will do make up only on SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH for in-studio showcase/dress rehearsal day. See COMPETITION ESSENTIALS below for everything that's needed.
- *UPDATED 1/17* PARENT IN-STUDIO SHOWCASE & POTLUCK | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 6:30-8:15PM
  - It's time to enjoy the hard work your dancers have put in and celebrate! On Thurs. 2/22, will have an all-Company dress rehearsal, and we invite parents to come in and watch your dancers perform! We will also do a run through of several other group routines. (Due to our limited studio space, 2 people per family may attend - RSVP & potluck sign up to come)
  - For the last 20-30 minutes, we will have a meeting to talk about competition weekends and what to expect.
  - Further details to come.

COMPETITION ESSENTIALS
- Undergarments:
  - Flesh tone leotard OR bra top with clear back strap & flesh tone undies
    - Recommendations:
      - Capezio Clear Strap Leotard
      - Body Wrappers Padded Bra Top
      - Capezio Seamless Clear Back Bra Top
      - Capezio Clear Back Bra Top
      - Capezio Seamless Briefs
      - Note: TIGHTS & NUDE LEOS ARE UNDERWEAR. If your dancer must wear regular underwear under their tights/nude leo, they MUST be flesh toned so they don't peek out and show on stage! We do not want to see Princess undies or pink polka dots under your costumes!
      - TIGHTS WILL BE PROVIDED FOR YOUR DANCER - you do not need to purchase them. They have been included in your Tights/Embellishment fee.
- Make Up: ALL DANCERS must have the following items for our team stage makeup look
  - Eyeshadow: Rimmel London Magnif'eyes BLUSH Edition
  - Lashes: Ardell Demi Wispies fake eyelashes & any black mascara
  - Eyeliner: Any black eyeliner
  - Blush: Any medium-dark pink color
  - Lipstick: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Vampire Love
- Hair: Center part, low ponytail braid
- Competition Earrings: ALL dancers are getting new earrings this year, which will be included in your tights & embellishment fee. PLEASE EMAIL US AND LET US KNOW IF YOUR DANCER NEEDS POST OR CLIP ON EARRINGS. If we don't hear from you, your dancer will receive clip-on earrings.

COSTUME TIGHTS & EMBELLISHMENT FEE TO BE CHARGED 1/26
- Whoops! We forgot to charge the $40 tights & embellishment fee along with our competition costume fees earlier in the season; this will be charged with your February tuition, in order to cover your dancer's competition tights, rhinestones, earrings, and other accessories needed for competition costumes. We apologize for the oversight!

12.12.23 UPDATE

ACTIV8 COMPANY HOLIDAY PARTY | SATURDAY, JANUARY 6TH, 1:00-3:00PM
- DANCERS: Join us for our annual Company Holiday celebration! Pizza will be provided and we will celebrate with games & activities, including our Company Big/Little Reveal & Gift Exchange!
- BIG/LITTLE REVEAL & GIFT EXCHANGE - $20 limit
  - BIGS (Jadyn, Lily, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel, Daniela): next week, you will find out who your Little is and receive further instruction on our reveal and gifting via Band message. IT'S A SECRET!! You must keep this secret until the party!
  - LITTLES (Nicole, Garnet, Grace, Gia, Maya, Madalena, Evelyn): next week, we will send some information to your parent and to you in a Band message about things your Big likes (color, snacks, candy, etc). Bring a gift to give to your Big at the reveal!
- This is a dancer-only event. All dancers are expected to attend; please confirm attendance via RSVP by 12/18 below, and please also choose ONE item to bring (we do not need bulk items!! ONE item per dancer). We need:
  - 3-5 snacks (bag of chips/crackers/pretzels/etc)
    - (1) Madalena, (2) Nicole - chips, (3) Sydney - chips, (4) Emma - pretzels, (5) Jadyn - chips
  - 2-3 desserts (plate of cookies/brownies/etc)
    - (1) Gia - brownies, (2) Ava - cookies,
  - 4-5 two-liters of juice/soda
    - (1) Gia - pop, (2) Nicole - sprite, (3) Daniela - apple juice, (4) Evelyn, (5) Itzel - coke
  - 1 package of paper plates (at least 20 in pkg)
    - (1 of 1) Maya
  - 1 package of plastic cups (at least 20 in pkg)
    - (1 of 1) Garnet
- We will update the list above as we receive RSVPs

COMPETITION SHOES
- We have confirmed shoes needed for competition; please place your order via the online store in the parent portal ASAP. They MUST be the brands we use in our online store so that all dancers match on stage! Half soles can be purchased elsewhere (just confirm you have the correct brand, style, & color before purchase), but the Caramel jazz shoes are only available to order through Activ8:
  - *NEW* Weissmans Low Profile Jazz Shoes in Caramel (the only jazz shoes we have in the store on the portal)
    - Production (all dancers except Daniela)
    - Felt Cute (Kimmy Teen Jazz)
    - Look At Me (Katy Pre-Teen Jazz)
  - Capezio Hanami Pirouette Half Soles in Lt. Suntan (dancers will need NEW half-soles for the stage that do not have holes or are overly dirty)
    - Knocking on Heaven's Door
  - Black Jazz Shoes (any brand)
    - Daniela (Production)
  - No shoes
    - Hints
    - Cold Hearted
  - SOLOISTS & DUETS - ask your choreographer

SOLO & DUET TUITION BALANCES HAVE BEEN CHARGED TO YOUR ACCOUNT
- If not paid already, these will be run with your January tuition auto-pay

OPEN SOLO SESSIONS, SOLO & DUET REHEARSALS START IN JANUARY - SCHEDULE BELOW
- Based on choreographer availability and dancer class schedules, we have done our best to put together the puzzle of duet and solo rehearsals. Please do what you can to make sure your dancer can attend the scheduled rehearsals below. If any of them absolutely don't work, please email us ASAP. If we're unable to find time for your dancer to rehearse with their choreographer, they'll rehearse with another teacher.
- OPEN SOLO SESSIONS: Soloists must attend open sessions to run through their solo(s); this is an opportunity to get in some reps, work on stamina, keep practicing in front of an audience, and also receive quick feedback from the Directors.
  - Mondays, 8:30-9:00PM (Emma, Itzel, Nicole, Lily)
    - 1/15, 1/29, 2/12, 2/26, 3/11, 4/1, 4/15, 4/29
  - Saturdays, 12:15-1:15PM (Jadyn, Ava, Sydney, Garnet, Grace, Gia, Maya, Madalena, Evelyn)
    - 1/13, 1/27, 2/10, 2/24, 3/9, 3/23, 4/13, 4/27
- DUETS: duets will have bi-weekly 45-min rehearsals beginning in January, included with your duet tuition flat rate
  - Wednesdays, 5:00-5:45PM
    - Ava/Itzel | 2/7, 2/21, 3/6, 3/20, 4/10, 4/24, 5/8, 5/22
    - Emma/Sydney | 1/17, 1/31, 2/14, 2/28, 3/13, 4/3, 4/17, 5/1, 5/15, 5/29
- SOLOISTS: soloists will have one 30min rehearsal each month, January-May, to work with their choreographer in more detail and prepare for competitions and recital (reminder: an additional $25/mo will be added to your tuition January-May). After we have confirmed all soloists' monthly private lesson, you may schedule additional solo privates at $25/30min; we will send an email notification when the private lessons calendar is open for additional scheduling.

Mackenzi's Soloists

Tuesdays 5:00-5:30PM
- Gia | 1/16, 2/13, 3/12, 4/9, 5/14
- Nicole | 1/23, 2/20, 3/19, 4/16, 5/21
Wednesdays 4:30-5:00PM
- Sydney | 2/7, 3/6, 4/10, 5/8
- Ava | 1/17, 3/13, 4/17, 5/15
- Emma | 1/24, 2/21, 3/20, 4/24, 5/22
- Itzel | 2/28, 4/3, 5/1, 5/29
Wednesday 5:00-5:30PM
- Sydney 1/24

Ryanne's Soloists

Mondays 5:00-5:30PM
- Lily | 1/8, 2/5, 2/26, 4/1, 5/13
Tuesdays 7:30-8:00PM
- Ava Musical Theatre | 1/9, 2/6, 3/5, 4/2, 5/7
- Contemporary | 2/20
Thursdays 5:00-5:30PM
- Grace | 1/11, 2/8, 3/7, 4/11, 5/9
Thursdays 5:30-6:00PM
- Evelyn | 1/18, 2/15, 3/14, 4/18, 5/16

Kimmy's Soloists

Saturdays
- 9:00-9:30AM
  - Gia Jazz | 1/13, 3/9
  - Maya | 1/27, 2/24, 3/23, 4/27, 5/18
  - Madalena | 4/13
- 12:20-12:50PM
  - Madalena | 1/20, 3/16, 5/18
  - Gia Jazz | 2/3, 4/6
  - Garnet 5/11
- 1:20-1:50PM
  - Garnet | 1/13, 2/10, 3/9, 4/13
  - Madalena | 2/24
  - Gia Jazz | 4/27

AYA WEEKEND WARRIORS

New this season, after each of our convention and competition weekends, we want to recognize some dancers we feel really embodied our Activ8 culture and principles while at the event. Typically, we'll choose two dancers, but we just couldn't choose after AYA so we want to recognize FOUR Weekend Warriors!

With a busy weekend balancing Driver's Ed AND convention, we're so proud of Sydney for pushing through, working hard in every class, and coming out with a smile at the end of the weekend!

Being the youngest dancer in an advanced room is tough and we were so proud of Nicole for jumping head first into each class and really putting herself out there! She didn't shy away from new and difficult choreography and really held her own, all while keeping a smile on her face and contributing to keeping up the good energy in the room!

Garnet was the loudest person in the room in the BEST WAY!! We loved watching her support not only her teammates but every dancer in the room, cheering everyone on and keeping the good vibes and energy going all weekend!

Madalena really rocked it at her first convention ever!! We were so proud watching her soak up everything she was learning and saw so much growth over the weekend! And we especially loved seeing Madalena interact with other dancers in the room and make new friends - that's what a convention weekend is all about!

11.27.23 UPDATE

NATIONALS 2024
- Following survey feedback from the last update, we will NOT be attending Nationals in 2024.

ACTIVATE YOUR ARTISTRY DANCE CONVENTION | DECEMBER 2-3, 2023
- Dancers attending:
  - Primary Room: Evelyn, Garnet, Grace, Gia, Maya, Madalena
  - Pro Room: Nicole, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel
- PARENTS: SIGN THE PARTICIPANT WAIVER ASAP IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY!
  - https://www.jotform.com/activateyourartistry/LIABILITYWAIVER
- WHERE: Holiday Inn Elk Grove Village, 1000 Busse Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
- CALL TIME: this is the time you must be inside the venue to meet up with the team; do not be late!
- ATTIRE: dancers should wear typical dress code dancewear, plus their Company jacket (if they have it); we recommend having a base of tights/leo or shorts/leo or shorts/fitted top, then bring other items to layer (leggings, sweatpants, t-shirt, sweatshirt); Activ8 wear is always encouraged! Hair must be pulled up and slicked back WHEN YOU ARRIVE. No extra jewelry.
- THINGS TO BRING:
  - ALL SHOES, INCLUDING SNEAKERS FOR HIP HOP! Also bring a couple pairs of socks!
    - Pro Room dancers can bring heels for heels class if they'd like
  - Water bottle
  - Company binder & pencil/pen
  - Extra hair ties, bobby pins, hairspray
  - Money for AYA and other vendor merch
  - Healthy snacks & bag lunch or money for concessions (concession lines are always long! We recommend bringing food instead of buying!)
- OBSERVERS: Parent observers are not permitted unless you purchase an observer band, and only for classes (not scholarship audition or the welcome ceremony). We recommend parents do not stay and observe classes; it's important that dancers stay focused and can really immerse themselves in the convention experience. Kimmy & Ryanne will be at the event all day and will be in and out of all rooms checking in on dancers. Dancers will stay inside their class ballroom the entire time unless using the restroom; we will employ the buddy system for bathroom trips.
  - Purchase observer band here: https://form.jotform.com/activateyourartistry/OBSERVER
    - note: these may sell out (if they haven't already)

11.3.23 UPDATE

IMPORTANT COMPETITION DATE UPDATE | APRIL COMPETITION DATE MOVED
- Unfortunately, the April 12-14 competition (PAC) has already sold out before we were able to reserve our place and all other competitions in town that weekend are also sold out, so we are forced to move our second competition date to April 19-21, 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding!
- SAVE THE DATE: APRIL 19-21, 2024 | WORLD CLASS TALENT EXPERIENCE

DANCER DEN IS CLOSED
- Following several instances over many weeks of the back dancer den and bathrooms being left with excessive amounts of trash, food scraps, etc. on the floors, counter, sinks, and cubbies after use by our Company members, the dancer den has been closed until further notice. The restrooms are still available for use.
- We chatted about this in Production last night and we're happy to have come together as a team with a plan earn back use of the space and be more mindful of respecting our dance studio home going forward. We will be implementing a checklist page on the corkboard in the dancer den that simply makes sure the space has been cleared up from trash and things before the girls leave for the night.

SOLO CHOREOGRAPHY & PRIVATES
- REMINDER: after dancers have learned their choreography in full, private lessons booked between now and December 31st are $50/hour. Beginning in January, you will be charged an additional $25/month with your tuition (Jan-May), which will cover one mandatory 30-minute private each month. You will still be welcome to book additional private lesson time for $50/hour, after we have book all soloists' first private lesson for the month. In December, we will begin booking January private lessons and schedule our open solo/duet sessions.

PHOTOSHOOT PICTURES HAVE BEEN POSTED!
- We're so excited to share the final edits for our company photoshoot with you! We will be sharing photographs of our company dancers on our Activ8 social media pages throughout the month!
  
  Dancers are encouraged to share on social media and must give credit to our photographer Sarah Glover by tagging her on Facebook (Sarah Glover Photography) and/or Instagram (@sarahgloverphotography) and please tag @activ8dancecompany too on both platforms! Please only post photos of your own dancer!
  
  You can access your dancers' photography at the link here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Rg2sz3bJxqs83Qb_sIFeORxcgvf7doDi?usp=share_link

SAVE THE DATE! 2024 GRAVITATE RECITAL | SUNDAY, JUNE 16, 2024 IN SCHAUMBURG
- We have confirmed 6/16/24 to return to Prairie Center for the Arts in Schaumburg for our annual recital!
- We know that some have asked for recital to be sooner, and we also realize that this is Father's Day, so we did try our best to find earlier dates and looked at several other venues in the area but, unfortunately, absolutely everything is completely booked up. This is quite literally the only date and venue available to us. We appreciate everyone's understanding!
- Our expected itinerary for the day is as follows (but subject to change):
  - 10:30AM | Dancer arrival
  - 11:00AM-1:30PM | Dress rehearsal
  - 2:00-3:30PM | Show #1: All competition and recreational class group routines
  - 3:30-4:00PM | Break
  - 4:00-5:00PM | Show #2: Company solos & duets
    - Participation in the solo/duet show will be optional
- Further details and information to come.

NATIONALS 2024 INTEREST
- We are considering attending one of the below Nationals competitions next summer; please fill out the survey below to indicate your interest either way:
  - July 2-6, 2024 | ID Nationals in Myrtle Beach, SC
  - July 9-12, 2024 | Headliners Nationals in Atlantic City, NJ
  - July 17-21, 2024 | ID Nationals in Sandusky, OH (Kalahari Resort)
- Note: dancers participating in Nationals will have additional mandatory rehearsals leading up to Nationals, which will include additional tuition (no more than their usual monthly tuition), as well at Nationals competition fees.

10.2.23 UPDATE

DRESS CODE & CLASS PREPAREDNESS
- This is a reminder that dancers are expected to abide by dress code, be prepared for classes with all of the necessary SHOES and dancewear, and arrive at the studio already prepared for class, including HAIR ALREADY DONE WHEN YOU WALK IN THE FRONT DOOR!
- REVIEW DRESS CODE EXPECTATIONS HERE

FUNDRAISING UPDATES
- Thank you to all who participated in our Portillo's Fundraiser in one way or another! We raised $120, to be put toward studio equipment & expenses.
- Next up is our CHIPOTLE FUNDRAISER on Wednesday, November 8th!
  - 11/8/23, 4:00-8:00PM, 8488 W Golf Rd in Niles
  - CLICK HERE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

IMPORTANT EVENTS: TUES. 10/23 thru MON. 10/30
- BRING A FRIEND WEEK: We will be handing out invitations for our annual BRING A FRIEND WEEK starting next week. Dancers are encouraged to bring friends with them to try out any of their non-Company rehearsal classes! (friends can attend ballet, turns & leaps, combo, other style-specific classes - just not our competition routine rehearsals)
- HALLOWEEN SPIRIT WEEK: Show your Halloween spirit by wearing Halloween colors or costumes (that you can still dance in) to class all week leading up to Halloween!
  - THURS. 10/26 - COMPANY COSTUME CONTEST DAY!!! We will have a contest and vote on the best costume of the day during Production!! Prizes will be awarded!!

DANCING FOR DANCERS PARTICIPATION
- We are excited to announce that our Wednesday, 8:30pm Teen Group, "Cold Hearted Snake" will attend Dancing for Dancers this year! (Jadyn, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel, swing: Nicole)
- Be sure to save the date! We'd love to see the whole team attend to support this organization and our team! Further details about ticketing and such to come.

UPCOMING FEES
- 10/13: Costume fee balance due
- 10/20: AYA Convention fee due
  - $200/dancer (Itzel, Ava, Madalena)
  - $100/dancer for those who received half scholarships (Nicole, Sydney, Garnet, Gia, Maya, Evelyn)
  - No fee for dancers who received full scholarships (Emma, Grace)

9.12.23 update

COSTUME FEE DEPOSIT DUE THIS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15TH
- Competition costume fee deposits have been posted to your account; this is the first half due for groups and some duets. Solos and remaining duet costumes are still being chosen and will be charged with the remaining group costume fees next month.
- See below for costume pictures!

PORTILLO'S FUNDRAISER - WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 5:00-8:00PM
- TELL YOUR FRIENDS & MAKE SURE YOU STOP BY!!
- 8832 W Dempster St, Niles, IL 60714
- How to participate:
  - IN-STORE: Show the flyer to the cashier before you order (you can just pull it up on your phone!)
  - DRIVE-THRU: mention Activ8 Dance Company before you order at the drive-thru
  - ONLINE ORDER FOR PICKUP: use code PORTILLOS20 before checkout in the "Apply Offer" field
- DOWNLOAD THE FLYER HERE

DANCERS - BRING YOUR PHOTOSHOOT OUTFITS TO PRODUCTION REHEARSAL ON THURS. 9/13 PLEASE!!

REMINDER: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH, 11:00AM - 4:00PM | COMPANY PHOTOSHOOT
- See 8.28.23 UPDATE below for full details

FRI. 10/13 | MASTER CLASSES W/ HOLLY LEHNERTZ
- 5:30-6:30PM | Jr. Corps & Pre-Company Jazz
- 6:30-8:00PM | Intermediate & Elite Company Contemporary
- As this is mandatory attendance, your dancer has already been enrolled. $15 per dancer for this class will be automatically added to your October tuition

8.28.23 update

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH, 11:00AM - 4:00PM | COMPANY PHOTOSHOOT
- We are so excited for our MONOCHROMATIC NEON photoshoot this season! Dancers will be at the studio for the entirety of the photoshoot from 11:00AM - 4:00PM, as we'll take individual and group photos. Dancers should arrive FULLY READY at 11:00AM! If you want to use Studio 2 to finish getting ready, you may arrive as early as 10:00AM. Each dancer will receive digital copies of one headshot, two dance/action shots, and a team photo.
- ATTIRE: a monochromatic neon look in one of the colors below. The pictured items are from Dancewear Solutions, but you can purchase items from anywhere, as long as the colors closely match. ALL OUTFITS MUST BE APPROVED BY RYANNE & KIMMY - band message or email us with pictures before you order.
  - PINK (Cerise on DWS): Jadyn, Ava, Madalena, Evelyn, Itzel
  - PURPLE (Electric Purple on DWS): Lily, Sydney, Nicole, Garnet
  - BLUE (Turquoise on DWS): Daniela, Emma, Maya, Grace, Gia
  - Yes: matte, mesh, spandex, cotton, pants, leggings, shorts, skirts, dresses, leotards, crop tops, tank tops, t-shirts, rompers
  - No: sequins, metallic, beading, fringe, appliques, logos/words/artwork
- HAIR: styled neatly down or half-up
- MAKEUP: a slightly "glammed up" natural makeup look - NOT STAGE MAKEUP

STUDIO REMINDERS/RULES:
- NO GUM
- WATER OR SPORTS DRINKS ONLY IN THE STUDIOS
  - soda, Celsius, energy drinks, etc. not permitted in the dance studio rooms
  - Stay HYDRATED with water or sports drinks please! We sell bottled water for $1 at the front desk; if you don't have money with you, we will take your name down and you can pay later!
- CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF IN THE STUDENT LOUNGE
- Review the dress code as we begin our regular season classes, including the what not to wear section at the bottom!

*UPDATED* THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH, 6:15-8:15PM | SEASON 5 COMPANY KICKOFF PARTY!
- This is a dancer party to officially kick off the season as a team! PIZZA DINNER WILL BE SERVED!
- NO CLASSES AFTER 8:15PM - we will have our regular schedule of Thursday rehearsals beginning the following week.
  - We will still have Ballet Technique 3/4 class from 5:30-6:15PM

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH, 1:00-3:00PM | ACTIV8 FAMILY PICNIC @ GOLF MILL PARK
- Bring the whole family for an afternoon of games and mingling! PARENTS - PLAN TO PARTICIPATE IN THE GAMES!!
- What to bring:
  - camp chairs
  - blankets
  - lawn games
  - snacks & drinks

8.14.23 UPDATE

MONDAY, AUGUST 14TH | COMPANY REHEARSALS & CLASSES BEGIN TODAY!!
- Dancers must wear ALL BLACK for rehearsals! You may wear any appropriate dancewear for company classes.
- Hair should be SLICKED BACK in a secure ponytail, bun, or braid for all classes & rehearsals! You should not need to readjust your hair during class. Double up on hair ties! Flimsy hair ties and claw clips that will come out are not appropriate for classes.
- CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL AUGUST SCHEDULE as of 8.14.23

MEMBER FEES DUE ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 18TH
- New Members: $210 (Company jacket, backpack, & photoshoot)
- Returning Members: $60 (photoshoot)
  - If you want to order a new black jacket or backpack, please let us know ASAP so this fee can be added and we can place the order. We can not take orders for new jackets or backpacks after the 18th!
  - BLACK JACKETS NEEDED: if you got a black jacket last season, please bring it to the studio this week so we may borrow it to size new members!
  - BLACK BINDERS: please also bring back your black binder from last season! Please empty before returning. Dancers that do not return their binders will be charged for a replacement.

PRIVATE LESSON & CONFERENCE
- As mentioned in the meetings, dancers and parents can schedule Private Lessons & Conferences with the Directors this month! We will send out a separate email by August 16th about our availability and how to book the privates. Keep an eye out!
- These include a 20-30 min. technique private, followed by a short 10-15 min. conference with the Directors to talk about where your dancer is at, what their goals are short-term and long-term, and what we'd like to see them focus on for this season. This is included with your August tuition and is optional, but highly recommended!

7.25.23 UPDATE

COMPLETE YOUR SEASON 5 REGISTRATION
- If you haven't already, please be sure you have enrolled your dancer in all of their classes and submitted your registration fee for the 2023-2024 season. Dancers with incomplete registration and tuition fee balances will not be staged into routines during August choreography!

ELEV8: THE INTENSIVE | JULY 31-AUG 3 | MANDATORY ATTENDANCE FOR ALL COMPANY DANCERS!
- Tuition is DUE - log onto the portal to view your balance and submit payment (may also be submitted via Zelle to [email protected])
- Bring ALL shoes you may need, including sneakers for hip hop.
- To see full ELEV8 information and schedule, CLICK HERE --> ELEV8: The Intensive
- DANCERS AGES 13+ may also bring heels for class with Alexa. Dancers can opt to take the class in regular dance shoes or bare feet, BUT if you choose to wear heels, these types of shoes are THE ONLY APPROVED SHOES TO WEAR by Miss Alexa:

AUGUST REHEARSAL & CLASS SCHEDULE
- Attendance in choreography rehearsals is MANDATORY for all dancers cast in those routines. We did the best we could to make rehearsal times work for everyone with the availability we were given, but some dancers may need to make adjustments to their schedule in order to be in rehearsal. Dancers that are not in rehearsal may not be staged in to that routine, for the section learned that day or for the entire routine, at the discretion of the choreographer and Directors.

Mon. 8/14
- 5:30-8:30PM | Pre-Teen Jazz w/ Katy (Garnet, Grace, Gia, Jocelyn, Maya, Madalena)
- *UPDATE* 5:30-7:00PM | Int. & Elite Company Class (all Int & Elite Company dancers)
Tues. 8/15, 7:00-9:00PM | Teen Group 2 w/ Kimmy (Nicole, Lily, Emma, Ava, Itzel, Daniela)
Wed. 8/16
- 5:30-7:00PM | Pre-Teen Jazz w/ Katy (Garnet, Grace, Gia, Jocelyn, Maya, Madalena)
- *MOVED TO 8/14* 5:30-7:00PM | Int. & Elite Company Class (all Int & Elite Company dancers)
- 7:00-9:00 | Teen Group 1 w/ Ryanne (Jadyn, Nicole, Lily, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel, Daniela)
Thurs. 8/17, 5:30-7:30PM | Company Class (ALL DANCERS)
Sat. 8/19, 9:00AM-1:00PM | Pre-Teen Jazz w/ Katy (Garnet, Grace, Gia, Jocelyn, Maya, Madalena)
Mon. 8/21, 5:30-7:30PM | Production (ALL DANCERS)
Wed. 8/23, 6:30-9:00PM | Teen Group 3 w/ Mackenzi (Jadyn, Ava, Emma, Itzel, Sydney)
Thurs. 8/24, 5:30-8:00 | Pre-Teen Contemporary w/ Mackenzi (Nicole, Garnet, Grace, Gia, Jocelyn)
Sat. 8/26, 9:00AM-12:00PM | Production (ALL DANCERS)
Mon. 8/28
- 5:30-7:00PM | Teen Group 1 w/ Ryanne (Jadyn, Nicole, Lily, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel, Daniela)
- 7:00-8:30PM | Teen Group 2 w/ Kimmy (Nicole, Lily, Emma, Ava, Itzel, Daniela)
Tues. 8/29, 5:30-7:30PM | Company Class (ALL DANCERS)
Wed. 8/30, 5:30-7:30PM | Pre-Teen Contemporary w/ Mackenzi (Nicole, Garnet, Grace, Gia, Jocelyn)

CLICK HERE FOR A PRINTABLE AUGUST SCHEDULE **UPDATED 7/27/23

6.13.23 UPDATE

SPIRIT WEEK STARTS THIS SATURDAY, 6/17!!
- We have some fun, themed days leading up to our annual Gravitate recital! See the full list at the top of this page. We expect Company dancers to participate and set a good example for our recreational students! (Make sure your outfits are still dance appropriate and you can participate fully in your classes)

SOLO & DUET REHERASALS NEXT WEEK
- Mon. 6/19, 5:00-5:30PM | Ava/Itzel Duet, Nicole/Gia/Grace Solos & Duet
- Mon. 6/19, 8:30-9:00PM | Ann, Zen, Jadyn Solo Session
- Wed. 6/21, 8:30-9:00PM | Emma, Ava, Sydney Solo/Duet Session
- Thurs. 6/22, 6:45-7:00PM | Jocelyn, Itzel Solo Session

GRAVITATE ITINERARY - SAT. JUNE 24TH @ Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Ct, Schaumburg, IL 60193
- 12:00PM | COMPANY DANCERS CALL TIME - help finish set up and prep for dress rehearsal; you should be 100% ready by Noon! If you need additional time to get ready, you can arrive as early at 11:00AM!!!
- 1:00-1:30PM | Competition groups staging rehearsal (no costumes)
- 1:30-2:30PM | Recreational classes tech rehearsal (company dancers will not change costumes)
- 2:30PM | Doors open for Show 1
- 3:00-4:30PM | Show 1
- 4:30-5:30PM | Break (bring snacks/bag dinner)
- 5:30-7:00PM | Show 2

SUMMER CLASS REGISTRATION DUE BY MON. 6/26
- REMINDER: all Company dancers are required to take summer classes July 10-28, PLUS ELEV8 July 31-Aug 3!!
  - REQUIREMENTS:
    - Ages 7-11 | Minimum 7 summer classes total, plus four-day all access ELEV8
      - Must attend at least 2 ballet classes of the 7 required classes
    - Ages 12+ | Minimum 10 summer classes total, plus four-day all access ELEV8
      - Must attend at least 3 ballet classes of the 10 required classes
  - VIEW THE SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE HERE!
    - Please be sure to set aside ELEV8 dates and plan ahead to meet your minimum class requirements!
  - NOTE: all company dancers MUST pre-enroll for their summer classes, to ensure you're meeting requirements and your classes stay open! Classes that do not have enough enrollment will be dropped and replaced! PLAN & REGISTER EARLY!
- HOW TO REGISTER (REGISTER BY MON. 6/26, TUITION DUE FRI. 6/30):
  - Online via the parent portal
  - Fill out this registration form and send via email or turn in to the desk (we also have copies at the desk)
- CAN'T COMPLETE YOUR SUMMER REQUIREMENTS? If you can't complete your minimum class requirements, you may also sign up for 3 hours of technique privates instead (split into 30 or 45 minute sessions). (all dancers must still attend all four days of ELEV8: The Intensive)
  - MUST BE COMPLETED BEFORE AUGUST 14TH
  - Contact us if you need to register for a mix of summer classes & privates

5.16.23 UPDATE

SAT. 5/27/23 REMINDERS
- GRAVITATE T-SHIRT & WELL WISHES ORDER DUE! >>>ORDER HERE<<<
  - T-shirt and well wishes sales will CLOSE after May 27th! Don't miss your chance to purchase these keepsakes for Season 4!
  - Don't forget to order your recital video, as well!
- We are OPEN for classes on Sat. 5/27 (Memorial Day weekend)
  - This is a "freebie" attendance day; as we know many people are going out of town over the holiday weekend, absences will not need to be made up. If your dancer has Saturday classes, please respond to the attendance form below so we can plan accordingly:

SEASON 4 COMPANY BANQUET | THURS. JUNE 8, 2023 | 6:00-8:00PM
- IT'S TIME TO CELEBRATE!! Company dancers, parents, and siblings are invited to join us at the studio on Thursday, June 8th for our first ever end-of-season Company Dinner Banquet! Get dressed up and join us for an evening of food, mingling, awards, photo ops, and more! (we will not have any classes on this evening)
- POTLUCK STYLE: please bring a dish to pass and a snack or dessert or beverage!! (sign up in the RSVP form below)
- WE NEED TABLES & CHAIRS! If you have folding tables and chairs we can borrow, please let us know by May 27th! We need seating for up to 60 people. We will need these dropped off at the studio by Wed. 6/7. (alternatively, we will rent tables/chairs and each family will pay a small fee, ~$7.00/family, for the banquet event to cover the rental)

POTLUCK ITEMS:

Activ8: Plates, utenstils, cups, napkins
Chelberg: Mac n cheese, salad
Danek: cookies
Erickson: Chili and mock eclairs
Fulkerson: pizza
Kontos: salad
Mulhern: fruit
Nutley: baked mostaccioli, brownies
G. Perez: bruschetta
I. Perez: Drinks
Raschillo: sandwiches, cookies
Wynn: salad & breadsticks

4.28.23 UPDATE

HEADLINERS COMPETITION | MAY 6-7 @ TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL
- CLICK HERE FOR THE HEADLINERS SCHEDULE
- Click here for COSTUME CHECKLIST
  - CHECK AND PREP YOUR COSTUMES NOW, including earrings, accessories, shoes, and tights!! We cannot make fixes the day before or the day of competition! Make sure you have everything you need!
    - We are OUT of our COMPETITION EARRINGS backup stock, so if you need replacements, please notify us ASAP so we can purchase them!
  - Please be sure undergarments work properly with each costume!!! Flesh tone bra tops should have a CLEAR BACK STRAP and preferably clear shoulder straps or very well matched to your skin tone! See 2.9.23 UPDATE for recommendations.
- HEADLINERS LIVESTREAM: https://headlinersdance.com/live/

FRIDAY, MAY 12 | RACHEL NASH MASTER CLASSES - MANDATORY ATTENDANCE
- 5:30-6:30PM Corps & Pre-Company
- 6:30-8:00PM Intermediate & Elite Company
  - If you had not previously registered your dancer for master classes on 5/12, your dancer has been automatically enrolled and the fee will be added to your May tuition.

4.1.23 UPDATE

MONDAY 4/10, 7:15-8:00PM | *NEWLY ADDED* MANDATORY ALL-COMPANY PRODUCTION REHEARSAL

Please be sure to review the important dates above for all upcoming additional rehearsals and mandatory attendance period!

Click here for the FINAL PAC SCHEDULE

Click here for UPDATED COSTUME CHECKLIST
- Note: some hair instructions have changed!
- Please be sure undergarments work properly with each costume!!! Flesh tone bra tops should have a CLEAR BACK STRAP and preferably clear shoulder straps or very well matched to your skin tone! See 2.9.23 UPDATE for recommendations.
- PRODUCTION - PIGS: black shorts underneath your costume must NOT be longer than your green shorts. Click here to see an example of the type of shorts dancers should wear.
- We will hand out any remaining costumes next week.
- CHECK AND PREP YOUR COSTUMES NOW, including accessories, shoes, and tights!! We cannot make fixes the day before or the day of competition! Make sure you have everything you need!

3.14.23 UPDATE

PARENT/GUARDIAN WAIVER FOR PRECISION ARTS CHALLENGE - CLICK HERE TO SIGN ASAP PLEASE!

REMINDER: we are closed for Spring Break from Sunday, March 26th through Sunday, April 2nd - WE ARE STILL OPEN AND HAVE CLASSES ON SAT. 3/25!! If you are heading out of town and will already be gone on Sat. 3/25, please notify us via email ASAP so we can make adjustments as needed.

SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE PREVIEW & COMPANY REQUIREMENTS
- All dancers intending to audition again and be part of Company for the 2023-2024 season are required to take summer classes and attend ELEV8. This season, regular summer classes will run in the evenings for three weeks, July 10-27, and will finish up with ELEV8 in the final week, July 31-August 3!
- REQUIREMENTS:
  - Ages 7-11 | Minimum 7 summer classes total, plus four-day all access ELEV8
    - Must attend at least 2 ballet classes of the 7 required classes
  - Ages 12+ | Minimum 10 summer classes total, plus four-day all access ELEV8
    - Must attend at least 3 ballet classes of the 10 required classes
- VIEW THE SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE HERE! (updated 3.20.23) REGISTRATION OPENS MONDAY, MARCH 20TH!
  - Please be sure to set aside ELEV8 dates and plan ahead to meet your minimum class requirements!
- NOTE: all company dancers MUST pre-enroll for their summer classes, to ensure you're meeting requirements and your classes stay open! Classes that do not have enough enrollment will be dropped and replaced! PLAN & REGISTER EARLY!

2.9.23 UPDATE

DRESS REHEARSAL WEEK! | MON. FEB 13 - SAT. FEB 18
- During dress rehearsal week, we practice our competition routines in full costume & competition hair during our regular rehearsal time during the week. This is a chance for us to make sure everyone knows how to do their hair & makeup properly, and make sure we see any last minute issues with costumes. On Saturday 2/18, we will have our in-studio showcase with our Production dress rehearsal, and we will also run through all other group routines.
- IN-STUDIO SHOWCASE ATTIRE: dancers must wear black leggings and a black t-shirt/tank top/leotard to rehearse our other groups.
- CLICK HERE FOR OUR KAR COMPETITION COSTUME CHECKLIST
  - We will hand out costumes and tights during dress rehearsal week; please bring a garment bag for your costumes!
  - Make sure you have all required shoes (except Production), necessary undergarments, make up, etc.
- HAIR & MAKE UP
  - Dancers need to wear COMPETITION READY HAIR each day they have a competition routine rehearsal at the studio. SLICK center part low ponytail; use hairspray and/or gel and AT LEAST two hair ties!! Hair should not fall out while dancing!
  - SATURDAY 2/18 is the only day dancers need to wear competition make up - if they have Saturday morning classes, they should arrive 90% ready for dress rehearsal. They will only have 30 minutes before we begin at 1:00pm to do any touch ups and apply lipstick.
    - Make Up: ALL DANCERS must have the following items for our team stage makeup look
      - Eyeshadow: Rimmel London Magnif'eyes BLUSH Edition (shadow primer recommended)
      - Lashes: Ardell Demi Wispies fake eyelashes & any black mascara
      - Eyeliner: Any black eyeliner
      - Blush: Any medium-dark pink color
      - Lipstick: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Vampire Love

UNDERGARMENTS

all dancers will need flesh tone leotard, or bra top with clear back strap & flesh tone undies

Recommendations:

Note: TIGHTS & NUDE LEOS ARE UNDERWEAR. If your dancer must wear regular underwear under their tights/nude leo, they MUST be flesh toned so they don't peek out and show on stage! We do not want to see Disney princesses, pink polka dots, neon, or lace under your costumes!

SATURDAY 2/18 IN-STUDIO SHOWCASE & POTLUCK, 1:00-2:30PM
- PARENTS: RSVP to attend the in-studio showcase if you haven't already in the 1.14.23 update below.
  - We have several folding chairs and benches available for seating, but you're welcome to bring in camp chairs as seating for yourself if you'd like! Note: you'll be required to remove your shoes in the studio - bring some socks and/or slippers!
- POTLUCK | Please be sure your dish is labeled and please only bring NUT-FREE items!
  - dishes already being brought:
    - fruit platter (Marcus, Raschillo)
    - ham & turkey sliders (Chelberg)
    - cookies (Danek, Raschillo)
    - pizzas (Itzel Perez)
    - veggie tray (Mulhern)
    - salad (Kontos)
    - mini sandwiches (Gia Perez)
    - dip (Gia Perez)
    - pasta salad (Fulkerson)
  - still needed/suggestions:
    - juice or soda
    - mini bottled water or gallon jugs
    - chips, pretzels, etc
  - Activ8 will provide plates, silverware, and cups

TENTATIVE KAR SCHEDULE NOW AVAILABLE! CLICK HERE!
- This schedule is tentative, but we do expect performance days and general times to stay mostly the same. We will send the final schedule when it comes available, usually a week before competition.

MONDAY, FEB. 20TH, 1:30-5:00PM | PRESIDENT'S DAY SOLO & DUET PRIVATES W/ MISS KIMMY
- As this is a school holiday for most dancers, and Miss Kimmy, we have opened up a block of time on the afternoon of Monday, 2/20 for any dancers who would like to schedule a solo or duet private, or want to come in for open studio time to work independently. (Dancers who have class in the evening can stay at the studio until their classes start)
  - To schedule a solo or duet private, sign up for slots with Miss Kimmy in the parent portal under Private Lessons.
  - To schedule independent open studio time, sign up for "Open Studio" slots under Privates Lessons in the parent portal.

TECHNIQUE PRIVATES W/ MISS MACKENZI
- Those who are interested in working one-on-one with an instructor on technique are encouraged to book technique privates with Mackenzi! She is available beginning at 3:00PM on most Mondays & Wednesdays. To book, sign up under Private Lessons in the parent portal.

SUMMER CLASS AVAILABILITY & PREFERENCES
- If you haven't yet, please fill out our SUMMER SURVEY to help us plan the best summer schedule!

1.31.23 UPDATE

SUPER BOWL SQUARES FUNDRAISER --> DOWNLOAD YOUR GAME BOARD HERE!
- Our annual Super Bowl Squares Fundraiser is here! This is an individual fundraiser, so everything you make will go directly to the individual dancer. Each sheet can make you $500, which will cover a lot of your competition entry fees for this season!
  
  HOW IT WORKS:
  - Step 1: Print out the Super Bowl Squares template once it becomes available (we will have copies that you can take home available at the front desk)
  - Step 2: Dancers will fill in numbers 0-9 in each of the grey squares in the top row and left side column. The winner will be determined by these numbers at the end of the Super Bowl.
  - Step 3: Sell squares to family and friends for $10 per square; they, or you, fill their name into whichever white squares they want - one name per square. (Collect cash, Venmo payment, or check made out to the dancer's parent) - participants can buy as many squares as they want! (you'll turn in $ to the studio afterward, to be put directly toward YOUR dancer's competition fees)
  - Step 4: Determining the winner: at the end of the game, look at the last/second digit in the score of each team and circle that number in their respective numbered row - the square that corresponds to those numbers is the winner! For example: if the score ends with PHILLY: 28 to KC: 24, the winner will be the person whose square is beneath the Eagles' column #8 and the Chiefs' row #4.
  - At $10 per square, the whole board will bring in $1000 - the winner will take $500 and the remaining $500 goes to the Activ8 dancer!
- Tip #1: Use social media , Zelle and Venmo to your advantage! Dancers are encouraged to make a video appealing to your family and friends - tell them why dance is important to you and how participating in our fundraiser is helpful! And payment apps like Venmo make it super easy to collect money!
- Tip #2: If you don't fill the entire board by the day of the game, you can fill in the rest of the squares with WILD CARD. This way, if the score ends up in a blank square, you can take all of the names in your squares and do a random drawing for the winner! Miss Ryanne did this a couple of years ago for a few empty squares and it made the final outcome even more exciting!

VIEW MISS KIMMY & MISS RYANNE'S GAME BOARD AS AN EXAMPLE HERE! WE'VE NUMBERED THE SQUARES SO PLAYERS CAN EASILY CHOOSE THEIR SPOTS!

DRESS REHEARSAL WEEK | FEBRUARY 13-18

Two weeks before our first competition, all of our Company routine rehearsals will have dress rehearsal during their usual class time - we will put on costumes just like we would wear them on stage, with all the proper undergarments, shoes, and full competition hair, so that we can be sure we're looking stage ready! During this week, we will hand out costumes and tights for dancers to take home.
Dancers must have all shoes and hair/make-up supplies needed by this week. Dancers will need to come to class every day that week with competition-ready hair (SLICKED low ponytail with a center part). We will do make up only on SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH for our all-company Production rehearsal day.
- Be sure to check the COMPETITION ESSENTIALS in the 12.22.22 update below.
  - NEW MEMBERS: if you haven't already, please let us know ASAP if your dancer needs clip-on or post earrings! If we don't hear from you, we will purchase clip-on earrings for your dancer.
PARENT IN-STUDIO SHOWCASE & POTLUCK | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1:00-2:30PM - RSVP IN 1.14 UPDATE BELOW
- It's time to enjoy the hard work your dancers have put in and celebrate! During our Saturday all-Company Production dress rehearsal, we invite parents to come in and watch your dancers perform! We will also do a run through of several other group routines. (Due to our limited studio space, 2 people per family may attend - RSVP BELOW)

DANCING FOR DANCERS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1:30PM @ Evanston Township High School
- See all details in 1.14.23 update below
- PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

1.14.23 UPDATE

DANCING FOR DANCERS | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19
- What: Dancing for Dancers is a local non-profit organization, created to support dancers in need. The Dancing for Dancers Benefit Concert Series was created to give dancers the opportunity to perform and connect with other dancers in their community. Proceeds from the performances go towards providing scholarships to dancers in need. The concerts are the heart of the organization and the performers are truly Dancing for Dancers!
- Who: "Cry Me A River" dancers (Jadyn, Ari, Ann, Emma E, Ava, Sydney, Itzel)
  - CLICK HERE --> DANCER WAIVER: ALL DANCERS PERFORMING NEED TO HAVE THIS FILLED OUT BY FEB 1ST!
- Where: Evanston High School | 1600 Dodge Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
- When: Sunday, February 19, 2023
  - 10:00 AM | PERFORMER CALL TIME
  - 10:30 AM-12:30 PM | DRESS REHEARSAL (dancers & teachers ONLY)
  - 1:30-3:30 PM | SHOW
    - PURCHASE TICKETS HERE! Parents/family/friends who want to see the show do need to purchase a ticket.
- ALL Activ8 dancers, parents, friends, etc. are invited to attend! We would love to see the rest of our Company dancers there to support their teammates for the first performance of the season!

DRESS REHEARSAL WEEK | FEBRUARY 13-18
- Two weeks before our first competition, all of our Company routine rehearsals will have dress rehearsal during their usual class time - we will put on costumes just like we would wear them on stage, with all the proper undergarments, shoes, and full competition hair, so that we can be sure we're looking stage ready! During this week, we will hand out costumes and tights for dancers to take home.
- Dancers must have all shoes and hair/make-up supplies needed by this week. Dancers will need to come to class every day that week with competition-ready hair (SLICKED low ponytail with a center part). We will do make up only on SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH for our all-company Production rehearsal day.
  - Be sure to check the COMPETITION ESSENTIALS in the 12.22.22 update below.
    - NEW MEMBERS: if you haven't already, please let us know ASAP if your dancer needs clip-on or post earrings! If we don't hear from you, we will purchase clip-on earrings for your dancer.
- PARENT IN-STUDIO SHOWCASE & POTLUCK | SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1:00-2:30PM
  - It's time to enjoy the hard work your dancers have put in and celebrate! During our Saturday all-Company Production dress rehearsal, we invite parents to come in and watch your dancers perform! We will also do a run through of several other group routines. (Due to our limited studio space, 2 people per family may attend - RSVP BELOW)
  - RSVP BELOW: Bring a dish to pass for our potluck! Activ8 will provide paper plates, silverware, and plastic cups.
    - Items already being brought:
      - fruit platter x2
      - ham & turkey sliders
      - cookies x2
      - pizzas
      - veggie tray
      - salad

SUPER BOWL SQUARES FUNDRAISER
- It's almost time for our annual Super Bowl Squares Fundraiser! This is an individual fundraiser, so everything you make will go directly to the individual dancer. Each sheet can make you $500, which will cover a lot of your competition entry fees for this season!
  
  HOW IT WORKS:
  - Step 1: Print out the Super Bowl Squares template once it becomes available (we will have copies that you can take home available at the front desk)
  - Step 2: Dancers will fill in numbers 0-9 in each of the grey squares in the top row and left side column. The winner will be determined by these numbers at the end of the Super Bowl.
  - Step 3: Sell squares to family and friends for $10 per square; they, or you, fill their name into whichever white squares they want - one name per square. (Collect cash, Venmo payment, or check made out to the dancer's parent) - participants can buy as many squares as they want! (you'll turn in $ to the studio afterward, to be put directly toward YOUR dancer's competition fees)
  - Step 4: Determining the winner: at the end of the game, look at the last/second digit in the score of each team and circle that number in their respective numbered row - the square that corresponds to those numbers is the winner! For example: if the score ends with LA: 28 to CB: 24, the winner will be the person whose square is beneath the LA column #8 and the CB row #4.
  - At $10 per square, the whole board will bring in $1000 - the winner will take $500 and the remaining $500 goes to the Activ8 dancer!
- Tip #1: Use social media , Zelle and Venmo to your advantage! Dancers are encouraged to make a video appealing to your family and friends - tell them why dance is important to you and how participating in our fundraiser is helpful! And payment apps like Venmo make it super easy to collect money!
- Tip #2: If you don't fill the entire board by the day of the game, you can fill in the rest of the squares with WILD CARD. This way, if the score ends up in a blank square, you can take all of the names in your squares and do a random drawing for the winner! Miss Ryanne did this a couple of years ago for a few empty squares and it made the final outcome even more exciting!

RECITAL CLASSES
- The below classes that Company dancers are enrolled in are also "recital classes", which will perform in our annual GRAVITATE recital showcase in June, and will have a costume fee due on February 1st (note: these are not competition routine classes - they perform in the June recital only):
  - Mon. 5:30 PM Ballet 4 & Wed. 5:30 PM Ballet 4 (classes will perform together)
  - Mon. 6:30 PM Combo 4 (Contemporary)
  - Tues. 5:30 PM Hip Hop 2 & Tues. 6:45 PM Hip Hop 3 (classes will perform together)
  - Tues. 6:00 PM Lyrical 2/3
  - Tues. 7:15 PM Ballet 3
  - Tues. 8:00 PM Combo 3/4 (Musical Theatre)
  - Wed. 7:15 PM Combo 4 (Jazz)
  - Sat. 9:00 AM Acro 1/2
  - Sat. 9:30 AM Ballet 2
  - Sat. 10:15 AM Combo 3 (Musical Theatre)
  - Sat. 10:15 AM Tap 2
  - Sat. 11:00 AM Acro 2/3

12.22.22 UPDATE

Check our WINTER/SPRING 2023 CLASS SCHEDULE for some updated class times!

OPEN SOLO SESSIONS & DUET REHEARSALS
- Beginning in January, soloists will attend assigned bi-weekly "open solo sessions" to run their solos with at least one instructor and receive feedback. These are MANDATORY, so that all dancers can be prepared for the stage! These sessions move quickly and dancers will receive notes to work on independently. We recommend scheduling privates with your choreographer, or another instructor, to work on things more specifically and in depth, as well.
- Duets will rehearse bi-weekly, one-on-one, with their choreographer or another instructor in order to prepare for competition; they are welcome to also schedule additional rehearsals with any instructor.
- We will have an A Week & B Week rotating schedule, with our last two weeks before KAR being combined A/B Weeks for dress rehearsal week and our final week before we're on stage.
  - A WEEKS: JAN 9-14, JAN 23-28, FEB 6-11, FEB 13-18, FEB 20-25, MAR 6-11, MAR 20-25, APR 10-15, APR 24-29, MAY 8-13
  - B WEEKS: JAN 16-21, JAN 30-FEB 4, FEB 13-18, FEB 20-25, FEB 27-MAR 4, MAR 13-18, APR 3-8, APR 17-22, MAY 1-6, MAY 15-20
- CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL SOLO & DUET SCHEDULE HERE FOR WHICH ROUTINES REHEARSE A WEEK & B WEEK, AND ASSIGNED DAYS/TIMES!

SAT. 1/7/23 - COMPANY HOLIDAY PARTY & ALL-COMPANY PRODUCTION REHEARSAL
- We open back up for classes after the Holiday break on SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 2023! 100% attendance for our all-company Production rehearsal and Holiday party is expected!
  - 1:00-2:00PM ALL-COMPANY PRODUCTION REHEARSAL
  - 2:00-4:00PM COMPANY HOLIDAY PARTY!
    - We will have a "White Elephant" style gift exchange! Everyone should bring a wrapped $5-$10 gift that is appropriate for all ages (nail polish, candy, snacks, hair items, dance items, etc). $10 is a HARD LIMIT for the gift! Please DO NOT overspend, so that we have fair gifts for all of our dancers!

COMPETITION ESSENTIALS
- Undergarments:
  - Production: any tank or cap sleeve plain black leotard
  - All other routines: flesh tone leotard or bra top with clear back strap & flesh tone undies
    - Recommendations:
      - Capezio Clear Strap Leotard
      - Body Wrappers Padded Bra Top
      - Capezio Seamless Clear Back Bra Top
      - Capezio Clear Back Bra Top
      - Capezio Seamless Briefs
        Note: TIGHTS & NUDE LEOS ARE UNDERWEAR. If your dancer must wear regular underwear under their tights/nude leo, they MUST be flesh toned so they don't peek out and show on stage! We do not want to see Princess undies or pink polka dots under your costumes!
- Make Up: ALL DANCERS must have the following items for our team stage makeup look
  - Eyeshadow: Rimmel London Magnif'eyes BLUSH Edition
  - Lashes: Ardell Demi Wispies fake eyelashes & any black mascara
  - Eyeliner: Any black eyeliner
  - Blush: Any medium-dark pink color
  - Lipstick: TBD
- Hair: Center part, low ponytail
- Competition Earrings: all new members must purchase competition earrings - we will bill your account $15 in January for earrings. PLEASE EMAIL US AND LET US KNOW IF YOUR DANCER NEEDS POST OR CLIP ON EARRINGS.
  - RETURNING MEMBERS: check now that you have your competition earrings! Let us know if you need replacements!
- Shoes & Tights: see 12.1.22 Update below.

12.1.22 UPDATE

ACTIVATE YOUR ARTISTRY LOST & FOUND
- If your dancer attended AYA Convention in November and lost something, please be sure to check their lost & found page here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/F8HS3KzNuReF2W1m7
- If you see an item that is yours, you can claim it one of two ways:
  1. AYA will have all lost and found at the registration table at AYA Chicago #2 this weekend (Dec. 3-4) at the Wyndham Garden Hotel , 1725 E Algonquin Road, Schaumburg, IL . Please feel free to come grab any items that belong to you.
  2. Email AYA at [email protected] and request to have your items shipped to you for a $5.00 flat rate. Simply provide your email address and they will send a shipping invoice to be paid. Once the invoice is paid, your item will be shipped and tracking information sent.
ACTIV8 MERCH SALES FOR THE HOLIDAYS!
- If you want to order items from our online store in time for holiday gifting, all orders must be placed by December 10th! If your order needs to be kept secret from your dancer, please be sure to email us after your order and let us know!
- IN STUDIO SALE: we will also have some limited edition items on sale in the studio over the next 3 weeks! These are items that may not be available in the online store and may not be available again!
ALL COMPANY PRODUCTION REHEARSALS
- We have set the dates for our all-company Production rehearsals for the rest of the season; see above "IMPORTANT DATES" and set aside these days! Attendance is 100% mandatory for these rehearsals! Please make sure you plan ahead for other events/activities, or work (for our older dancers).
SAT. 1/7/23 - COMPANY HOLIDAY PARTY & ALL-COMPANY PRODUCTION REHEARSAL
- We open back up for classes after the Holiday break on SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 2023! 100% attendance for our all-company Production rehearsal and Holiday party is expected!
  - 1:00-2:00PM ALL-COMPANY PRODUCTION REHEARSAL
  - 2:00-4:00PM COMPANY HOLIDAY PARTY!
    - We will have a "White Elephant" style gift exchange! Everyone should bring a wrapped $5-$10 gift that is appropriate for all ages (nail polish, candy, snacks, hair items, dance items, etc). $10 is a HARD LIMIT for the gift! Please DO NOT overspend, so that we have fair gifts for all of our dancers!
COMPETITION SHOES & TIGHTS
- Tights are already included with your costume fees; dancers will receive tights during dress rehearsal week
- Shoes:
  - Production: to make it easier for everyone (so you don't have to run around to 5 different shoe stores), we will purchase sneakers through our costume company for Production. Your account will be charged $40 for our Production sneakers.
  - Half-Soles: Rock Your Soul, She Used to Be Mine, What's Going On trio
    - Order online in the Activ8 store; you will need a "performance pair" of half-soles that are worn on stage ONLY, so they don't have holes or are too dirty
  - Jazz Shoes: Shake & Pop, Wings trio
    - Order online in the Activ8 store in Caramel; be sure they are acceptable for the stage, with no holes and minimal scuff marks
  - No Shoes: Ruby Blue, The Dance, Cry Me A River
  - Duets & Soloists: ask your choreographer if you don't already know what shoes you'll need
SAT. 12/16/22 - COMPETITION FEES #1 DUE (FOR KIDS ARTISTIC REVUE, FEB. 24-26)
- UPDATE: Our PRODUCTION routine WILL NOT COMPETE AT KAR. It will compete at our last two competitions, PAC (April 14-16) and Headliners (May 5-7). Therefore, if your dancer's only group is Production, they will not be charged a competition fee for this in December. Dancers not competing at KAR are still welcome and encouraged to attend to support their team!
- Routines competing at KAR:
  - Groups ($60/dancer per group routine):
    - Ruby Blue - Monday Sr. Small Jazz (Zoe, Ari, Ann, Zenya)
    - The Dance - Wednesday Teen Small Contemporary (Jadyn, Emma, Ava, Sydney)
    - Shake & Pop - Thursday Teen Jazz (Jadyn, Ari, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel)
    - Cry Me A River - Thursday Teen Contemporary (Jadyn, Ari, Ann, Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel)
    - Rock Your Soul - Thursday Teen Lyrical (Ann, Emma, Ava, Sydney)
    - She Used to Be Mine - Saturday Teen Lyrical (Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel)
  - Duet/Trios ($80/dancer per duet/trio):
    - Better Than Today - Jr. Lyrical (Grace, Gia)
    - Hanging by a Thread - Teen Contemporary (Emma, Sydney)
    - Hide & Seek - Teen Contemporary (Ava, Itzel)
    - What's Going On - Jr. Contemporary (Nicole, Grace, Gia)
    - Wings - Jr. Jazz (Nicole, Grace, Gia)
  - Solos ($140/dancer per solo):
    - Big God - Jr. Contemporary (Nicole)
    - Follow the Sun - Jr. Contemporary (Gia)
    - Words - Jr. Lyrical (Grace)
    - I Wanna Dance With Somebody - Teen Lyrical (Itzel)
    - Nothing Stops Another Day - Teen Lyrical (Emma)
    - The Mad Hatter - Teen Musical Theatre (Jocelyn)
    - The Words You Left Me - Teen Contemporary (Sydney)
    - Undertow - Teen Lyrical (Ava)
    - What's This? - Teen Musical Theatre Solo (Ava)
    - As It Was - Sr. Contemporary (Jadyn)
    - Myth - Sr. Contemporary (Zoe)
    - Rain - Sr. Contemporary (Zenya)
    - Sunday Kind of Love - Sr. Contemporary (Ari)
    - The Raven - Sr. Contemporary (Ann)
ALPHA DANCE CONVENTION ATTENDANCE - OPTIONAL
- February 3-5, 2023 @ McCormick Place in Chicago
- $270/dancer DUE 12/30/22
- Please fill out the below form to confirm either way if your dancer intends to attend Alpha Dance Convention (if we do not receive a response by 12/5/22, we will assume your dancer is NOT attending):

11.5.22 UPDATE

SAT. DECEMER 10TH HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE - LYRICAL 2/3 & ACRO 2/3 & 3/4 RESPONSE REQUIRED!!
- If you have not already, please let us know ASAP if your dancer will perform with us at the Storytime with Santa event on Saturday, 12/10!
LOCK-IN SLEEPOVER - HOST NEEDED!
- Due to mall policies, we likely will not be able to hold a lock-in sleepover at the studio this season. If anyone is willing to host at their home sometime this season, please let us know! We have up to 15 dancers on the team that would be in attendance.
ACTIVATE YOUR ARTISTRY DANCE CONVENTION | NOVEMBER 12 & 13
- Dancers attending:
  - Primary Room: Evelyn F, Emma R, Grace N, Gia P, Jocelyn W
  - Pro Room: Jadyn C, Emma E, Ava M, Sydney M
- PARENTS: SIGN THE PARTICIPANT WAIVER ASAP IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY! CLICK HERE TO SIGN WAIVER!
- WHERE: Tinley Park Convention Center | 18451 Convention Center Dr, Tinley Park, IL 60477
- CALL TIME: this is the time you must be inside the venue lobby to meet up with the team; do not be late!
- ATTIRE: dancers should wear typical dress code dancewear, plus their Company jacket; we recommend having a base of tights/leo or shorts/leo or shorts/fitted top, then bring other items to layer (leggings, sweatpants, t-shirt, sweatshirt); Activ8 wear is always encouraged!
- THINGS TO BRING:
  - ALL SHOES, INCLUDING SNEAKERS FOR HIP HOP! Also bring socks!
  - Water bottle
  - Company binder & pencil/pen
  - Extra hair ties, bobby pins, hairspray
  - Money for AYA and other vendor merch
  - Healthy snacks & bag lunch or money for concessions (concession lines are always long! We recommend bringing food instead of buying!)
- OBSERVERS: Parent observers are not permitted unless you purchase an observer band. We recommend parents do not stay and observe classes; it's important that dancers stay focused and can really immerse themselves in the convention experience. Kimmy & Ryanne will be at the event all day and will be in and out of all rooms checking in on dancers. Dancers will stay inside their class ballroom the entire time unless using the restroom; we will employ the buddy system for bathroom trips.

Primary Room: Evelyn F, Emma R, Grace N, Gia P, Jocelyn W

Pro Room: Jadyn C, Emma E, Ava M, Sydney M

10.14.22 UPDATE

ABSENCES & MAKE UP CLASSES
- Dancers are REQUIRED to attend/schedule make ups for any missed technique classes WITHIN TWO WEEKS OF THE ABSENCE! Please make sure you schedule your make ups for any missed classes in September or October ASAP!
  - Make up classes should be in the same style and level if possible (Ballet 4 for Ballet 4, Turns & Leaps 3 for Turns & Leaps 3, etc)
- To report an absence:
  - Online:
    - Log on to the parent portal online: https://dancestudio-pro.com/online/activ8dancecompany
    - Scroll down and click Attendance (you can also view your dancer's full attendance history here)
    - Click Report Absence
    - Check the box next to the dancer(s)
    - Choose the date(s) of the absence
    - Check the box next to the class(es) being missed
    - REQUIRED: type in the reason for the absence PLUS YOUR CHOSEN MAKE UP CLASS DATE AND CLASS NAMES
    - Click Submit
  - In the phone app (look for "DanceStudio-Pro Portal" in the app store):
    - Click More on the bottom right
    - Scroll down and click Attendance (you can also view your dancer's full attendance history here)
    - Click Report Absence
    - Check the box next to the dancer(s)
    - Choose the date(s) of the absence
    - Check the box next to the class(es) being missed
    - REQUIRED: type in the reason for the absence PLUS YOUR CHOSEN MAKE UP CLASS DATE AND CLASS NAMES
    - Click Submit
- To schedule make up classes outside of the absence reporting tool, you must email [email protected] with the full list of classes & dates missed, plus the corresponding make up classes & dates.
  - Example:
    - Absent 10/1/22 for 5:30 Ballet 4
      - Make Up on 10/13/22 in 5:00 Company Ballet

LOCK-IN SLEEPOVER UPDATE - POSTPONED
- The sleepover originally scheduled for Halloween weekend is POSTPONED until we can properly coordinate with mall management. We will reschedule for a later date; stay tuned!

SUMMER 2023 NATIONALS UPDATE - CANCELLED
- After polling the team, we do not have enough dancers interested in traveling to attend Nationals next summer, so we will NOT be attending a Nationals competition in July 2023. We hope to go back to Nationals in 2024!

9.28.22 UPDATE

FRI. 10/7 | MASTER CLASSES W/ MORGAN WIGGINS - MANDATORY ATTENDANCE
- 5:30-6:30PM | BEG/INT HIP HOP
  - CORPS & PRE-COMPANY
- 6:30-8:00PM | INT/ADV CONTEMPORARY HIP HOP FUSION
  - INTERMEDIATE & ELITE COMPANY
- Intermediate and Elite Company dancers, and any dancers ages 12+, may take both classes if they'd like, at $25 per class.
- Dancers will be automatically enrolled in the appropriate class and your account will be charged $25 with October tuition for Corps, Pre-Company, and Intermediate Company. (Those that already registered will not be charged again)
- If your dancer has an unavoidable conflict and cannot attend, please let us know ASAP!
SEASON 3 PHOTOSHOOT CANVAS - $20/each
- We're going to be making room for our new Season 4 photos in the lobby soon! Returning members can purchase last year's canvas from the lobby wall for just $20! Email and let us know if you'd like to purchase your dancer's photo.

BACKPACKS
- Backpacks are on backorder until November, but we expect to have them before Thanksgiving!
JACKETS
- due to supply issues, we've had to choose a different brand of jacket. The style is similar; semi-fitted with thumbholes, offered in both Ladies' Adult and Girls' Youth sizing. We expect to have them by the end of October! If you are getting a new jacket this season, you must email us the size you'd like based on the updated size chart below if you haven't already.
- GIRLS' YOUTH SIZING:
  - S: SIZE 6-8
  - M: SIZE 10-12
  - L: SIZE 14-16
- LADIES' ADULT SIZING:
  - XS: SIZE 0-2
  - S: SIZE 2-4
  - M: SIZE 6-8
  - L: SIZE 10-12
  - XL: SIZE 14-16
  - 2XL: SIZE 16-18
- LAST CALL: we will still take new jacket orders through Thursday 9/29 for any returning members who would like one!

8.29.22 UPDATE

NEW COMPANY BACKPACKS & JACKETS
NEW MEMBERS (& returning who have ordered a new jacket): YOU MUST EMAIL US THE SIZE OF JACKET YOU WOULD LIKE!

RETURNING MEMBERS - LAST CALL TO ORDER!
Returning Company members who want a new jacket and/or backpack must let us know by THIS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2ND! WE WILL NOT BE PLACING ANY MORE JACKET OR BAG ORDERS FOR THE SEASON!

KICK OFF PARTY - SAT, SEPTEMBER 10TH
1:00 - 3:00PM @ ACTIV8 | dancers only - MANDATORY

We're so excited to have our ENTIRE TEAM of dancers in the studio to officially kick off the season with some fun team bonding time! We'll have games, prizes, our photobooth set up, a bleach tie-dye party, and also find out our Bigs & Littles for the season!

PLEASE BRING ONE ITEM OF BLANK CLOTHING TO BLEACH DYE!! AFTER WE BLEACH DYE IT, WE WILL ADD AN ACTIV8 SYMBOL LOGO TO THE MERCH FOR YOU! (i.e. t-shirt, tank top, sweatpants, shorts, leggings, etc.)

PHOTOSHOOT | SUN. SEPT 11, 12:00-4:00PM
Dancers should arrive FULLY READY at 12:00PM! Dancers will stay for the entire photoshoot this year and we'll have a little pizza party at the end of the day! Each dancer will receive one headshot, two dance/action shots, and we'll also be taking our first team photo since Season 1!

We will be using a metallic silver background for this year's photoshoot! Dancers should wear an all-black outfit of their choosing; make sure it's something you can achieve dance movement in! Dancers will be barefoot. No tights. See photos to the right for inspiration.
**SEND US A BAND MESSAGE OR EMAIL WITH YOUR PHOTOSHOOT OUTFIT CHOICE TO BE APPROVED!

HAIR: styled neatly down or half-up
MAKEUP: a slightly "glammed up" natural makeup look (see photo for example) - NOT STAGE MAKEUP

CLI STUDIOS ACCESS & LOGIN
As members of our competitive program, all dancers have access to CLI Studios! This is an online video dance class platform, which we also utilize in the studio! Dancers can take online dance classes from some of the industry's very top professionals, like Steven "tWitch" Boss (from the Ellen Show), Alison Holker, Brian Friedman (choreographer to Britney Spears), the Syncopated Ladies, and more!

New members should have received an invitation via email to create their login (dancers 13+ will have their login sent to their personal email and dancers 12 & Under will have their login sent to a parent). You can log on via a web browser or the phone app.

DRESS CODE
Please make sure you are prepared with proper dress code, including shoes, as we begin our regular schedule of classes on Tuesday, September 6th! We are not picky about shoe brands for classes, however, dancers will have to get specific shoes for the stage, which they will be sized for and your account will be charged later in the season. If you don't have black sneakers, you DO NOT need to buy new shoes for Production right now; please just make sure the sneakers you wear are clean (no outside shoes)!! We will have you buy specific shoes, that will go with our costumes, later in the season.

8.19.22 update

AUGUST 2022 REHEARSAL SCHEDULE

FRI. 8/19
- 5:30-7:30PM JR SMALL GROUP w/ KATY (Nicole, Grace, Gia)
- 7:30-9:00PM INTERMEDIATE & ELITE COMPANY CLASS (ALL Intermediate & Elite Company Dancers)
SAT. 8/20
- 9:00-10:30AM JR SMALL GROUP w/ KATY (Nicole, Grace, Gia)
- 10:30AM-1:00PM PRODUCTION - SAT GROUP (Nicole, Emma E, Evelyn, Ava, Sydney, Grace, Gia, Itzel, Emma R, Jocelyn)
SUN. 8/21
- 9:30AM-1:00PM JR SMALL GROUP w/ KATY (Nicole, Grace, Gia)
- 1:00-2:30PM CORPS & PRE-COMPANY CLASS & SEMINAR (ALL Corps & Pre-Company Dancers)
MON. 8/22
- 5:00-9:00PM SENIOR SMALL GROUP w/ MACKENZI (Zoe C, Ari D, Ann D, Zenya K)
TUES. 8/23
- 5:00-7:00PM TEEN SMALL GROUP w/ MACKENZI (Jadyn, Emma E, Ava, Sydney)
THURS. 8/25
- 6:00-8:00PM CORPS & PRE-COMPANY CLASS (ALL Corps & Pre-Company Dancers)

FRI. 8/26
- 6:00-8:30PM PRODUCTION - ALL DANCERS (Zoe, Jadyn, Natalie, Nicole, Ari, Emma E, Zenya, Ava, Sydney, Itzel, Grace, Gia, Jocelyn, Evelyn, Emma R)
SAT. 8/27
- 12:30-2:30PM INTERMEDIATE & ELITE COMPANY CLASS & SEMINAR
- 3:00-5:00PM SENIOR JAZZ w/ KIMMY & RYANNE (Jadyn, Natalie, Ari, Emma E, Ava, Sydney, Itzel)
SUN. 8/28
- 12:30-2:30PM TEEN SMALL LYRICAL (Emma, Ava, Sydney, Itzel)
- 3:00-5:00PM SENIOR JAZZ w/ KIMMY & RYANNE (Jadyn, Natalie, Ari, Emma E, Ava, Sydney, Itzel)
MON. 8/29
- 6:00-8:30PM INTERMEDIATE & ELITE COMPANY CLASS
WED. 8/31
- 6:00-8:00PM INTERMEDIATE & ELITE COMPANY CLASS
THURS. 9/1
- 6:30-9:00PM PRODUCTION - MON/THURS GROUP (Zoe, Jadyn, Natalie, Ari, Emma, Zenya, Sydney, Itzel)

ACTIVATE YOUR ARTISTRY CONVENTION FEE DUE

Convention fees for Activate Your Artistry are due SATURDAY AUGUST 20TH; the fee has been posted to your account. If you would like to pay via Zelle, you must submit payment by Fri. 8/19. Credit cards on file will be charged automatically on the due date.

DANCERS ATTENDING ACTIVATE YOUR ARTISTRY NOV 12-13:

Jadyn Chelberg (Half Scholarship)
Natalie Colletti (Full Scholarship)
Nicole Danek
Emma Erickson (Full Scholarship)
Evelyn Fulkerson (Half Scholarship)
Sydney Mulhern (Full Scholarship)
Grace Nutley (Half Scholarship)
Gia Perez (Half Scholarship)
Emma Raschillo
Jocelyn Wynn (Half Scholarship)
Ava Marcus (?) - PLEASE CONFIRM PARTICIPATION
Itzel Perez (?) - PLEASE CONFIRM PARTICIPATION

LAST CALL: if your dancer is not listed above as attending this convention and you would like to register them, please let us know by 12:00PM tomorrow, Sat. 8/20!

10.8.24 UPDATE

holly jolly fest, golf mill performance, & hip hop company responses

10.2.24 UPDATE

9.18.24 update

9.4.24 update

8.24.24 UPDATE

8.7.24 UPDATE

7.26.24 UPDATE

6.11.24 UPDATE

5.14.24 UPDATE

4.25.24 UPDATE

​RSVP FOR COMPANY BANQUET BY 4/30!

4.11.24 UPDATE

3.20.24 UPDATE

3.6.24 UPDATE

2.26.24 UPDATE

2.17.24 UPDATE

2.7.24 UPDATE

1.31.24 UPDATE

RSVP FOR SHOWCASE & PIZZA PARTY BY 2/10

1.11.24 UPDATE

12.12.23 UPDATE

DANCER RSVP FOR HOLIDAY PARTY

11.27.23 UPDATE

11.3.23 UPDATE

Nationals 2024 interest

10.2.23 UPDATE

9.12.23 update

8.28.23 update

8.14.23 UPDATE

7.25.23 UPDATE

6.13.23 UPDATE

5.16.23 UPDATE

RSVP FOR COMPANY BANQUET BY 5/26

4.28.23 UPDATE

4.1.23 UPDATE

3.14.23 UPDATE

2.9.23 UPDATE

1.31.23 UPDATE

1.14.23 UPDATE

SAT. 2/18 PARENT VIEWING & POTLUCK RSVP

12.22.22 UPDATE

12.1.22 UPDATE

11.5.22 UPDATE

10.14.22 UPDATE

9.28.22 UPDATE

SUMMER 2023 NATIONALS ATTENDANCE

8.29.22 UPDATE

8.19.22 update

Activ8 Dance Company | Est. 2019295 Golf Mill Center, Niles, IL 60714​312.248.2956 | [email protected]Website photography by Sarah Glover, Nicki Nicole Niemet, & Sergio Lopez

RSVP FOR COMPANY BANQUET BY 4/30!

Activ8 Dance Company | Est. 2019
295 Golf Mill Center, Niles, IL 60714
312.248.2956 | [email protected]

Website photography by Sarah Glover, Nicki Nicole Niemet, & Sergio Lopez