Learn How To Shine On The Dance Floor

You will be the center of attention at your quinceañera, but if that makes you nervous or fills you up with excitement, either way don’t worry we at My Quince will give you the tips that you need to look like a pro for your baile. We asked the pros for answers to your dancing questions.

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Where do I start?
The first and biggest advice will be to find a choreographer. She or he should have lots of baile and quinceañera experience, this makes it much easier. The larger the court, the more time you will need to rehearse. Plus it will also depend on the number of dances you’re planning and how complicated you want them to be.

How many rehearsals?
The more you practice the better and more confident you and your court will be. Most choreographers suggest about eight to ten rehearsals over a period of two to three months. For instance, choreographer Ana Isabel Reina in San Diego sets up a nine-week rehearsal schedule. Some suggest one rehearsal per week, while others want more. If you wait until one month before (yikes!), you’ll be rehearsing every day-and definitely stressing.

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How long are the rehearsals?
Rehearsals are usually two hours long, with a 15-minute break. If your mom is able, she might provide a snack for everyone at the break. You’ll need to plan your rehearsal schedule in advance. Generally the quince’s family provides transportation for the court, so think about what will work with your parents’ schedules. Also, be sure to plan around holidays and vacations.

Where do we practice?
Talk with your choreographer about where to practice it could be her studio or your house. Make sure you make arrangements with the hall to have at least one or two rehearsals. You’ll need to get a feel for dancing there.

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What should we wear?
Wear comfortable and practical clothes. No sandals. No too-tight anything. “No halter tops-remember, you’ll be raising your arms,” Reina warns. Practice in your shoes at least once.

How do I keep it together?
It’s up to you to remind your court of practices and make sure they attend. If a dama or chambelan drops out, you need to find a replacement. Allow no more than two missed rehearsals. “Leave the romances and drama off the dance floor,” says choreographer Leticia Vega from Phoenix.

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Tips For Your Quince Dance:
1. These are the four dances most quinces have: the grand entrance, vals, baile sorpresa, and father-daughter dance.
2. Staying with tradition – According to Vega there are three traditional cultural dances learned by most quinces: merengue, salsa, and cumbia.
3. Many select mature dances, such as tango, mambo or ballroom dancing as their second dance.
4. Many girls elect to do modern dances. Some chose hip-hop or special choreographed routines for their baile sorpresa.