The end-of-year ballet show is one of the highlights of a young dancer’s year — and one of the most logistically demanding days for dance parents. Costumes, multiple outfit changes, hair, shoes, makeup and the general excitement of backstage life all need to be managed calmly. This guide covers everything you need to prepare in advance and what to pack on the day.
Before Show Day: What to Buy in Advance
Shows often require items beyond the standard class uniform. Your school will send a costume list or production notes, but there are standard items that almost every show requires:
- Clean, matching ballet tights: Check your child has a matching pair for each costume. Many schools require all-pink tights regardless of the costume colour — confirm with the teacher.
- Ballet shoes in good condition: Inspect shoes well before show day. Replace if the sole is worn through, elastics are fraying or shoes no longer fit correctly. Do not put your child in a new, unworn pair on show day.
- Fishnets or character tights: Some older students or character sections require fishnet tights or character tights in a specific colour. Check the production notes.
- Hair accessories: Ribbons, bows, headbands or fascinators may be required depending on the role and choreography. Confirm exactly what is needed — some schools provide these, others require parents to source them.
- Stage makeup: Many schools require basic stage makeup from around age 8 upwards for shows. Check whether the school provides it or requires parents to apply it.
What to Pack in the Show Bag
Pack everything in a clearly labelled bag. If your child has multiple costume changes, use a separate zip bag for each costume in the order they are worn.
Essential Items
- All costumes (checked off against the production list)
- All required tights — one spare pair for each costume
- Correct shoes for each section of the show
- Full hair kit: comb, brush, hair ties, kirby grips, net, bun spray, any decorative accessories
- Stage makeup if required
- Water bottle with a secure, non-spill cap
- Small, easy snack for backstage — avoid messy or strongly scented foods
- Your child’s name on every item, including individual shoes and accessories
Nice to Have
- Safety pins — invaluable backstage for costume emergencies
- Clear nail polish for stopping a tights ladder spreading
- Baby wipes for quick makeup touch-ups or sticky fingers
- A small sewing kit for loose elastic or a dropped hem
- Hairspray for flyaways
Hair Preparation for Show Day
Show hair is usually more elaborate than everyday class hair. Many shows require a specific style — a French plait into a bun, or a high ponytail for a contemporary piece. Practice the style at least twice at home before show day. Allow extra time on the day — backstage is chaotic and rushing complicated hairstyles causes stress.
What Happens Backstage
First-time show parents are often surprised by how different backstage is from the orderly classroom. Help your child feel settled by arriving at the call time given by the school, labelling every item clearly, and briefing younger children in advance about what to expect.
After the Show: Care and Storage
After the show, check all costumes back in if they belong to the school. Items belonging to your child should be washed promptly — sweat and stage makeup left in fabric will cause staining. Wash according to garment care labels. Store clean dance items in a breathable bag, not a sealed plastic container.
Shop from Zoe Dancewear
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a costume or does the school provide one?
It depends on the school. Many schools hire or own costumes and charge a costume deposit or hire fee. Others require parents to purchase specific items — often tights, shoes and accessories — while providing the main costume garment. Check your school’s production information well in advance.
My child has two costumes for the show — how do I organise changes?
Pack each costume in a separate clear zip bag, labelled with your child’s name and the order (e.g. “Change 1 — first half”, “Change 2 — second half”). Include all accessories, tights and shoes for each change in the correct bag.
Should I apply stage makeup myself or ask the school to do it?
Most schools either apply makeup themselves for younger children or give parents clear guidance on what to apply and how. For older children (typically 10+), parents often apply makeup at home before the call time. Follow your school’s instructions exactly — over-applying is a common mistake.
Can siblings watch from backstage?
Generally no. Backstage is a controlled environment for health and safety reasons, and non-performing siblings create additional management challenges. Siblings should watch from the audience. Check your school’s policy — some schools designate a limited backstage window for parents of very young children only.