Concert and Eisteddfod Day: The Complete Dance Bag Checklist

By Wendy, Store Manager at Total Dance

Your first concert or eisteddfod can feel like a very big day, and the packing is half the nerves. Take a breath: with a well sorted bag you will spend the day watching your dancer shine instead of hunting for a lost shoe. Here is the checklist we give every family across the counter, grouped so nothing gets forgotten.

Costumes

Costumes are the one thing you cannot replace on the day, so treat them gently and label everything.

• Every costume the routine list calls for, each one clearly labelled with your dancer's name.
• Costumes on hangers inside a garment bag where you can, so they arrive uncreased.
• Any headpieces, tutus or props that belong with each costume, packed with it.
• Accessories the studio has asked for: gloves, tutus overskirts or character bits. Check the run sheet with your teacher if you are unsure.

Shoes for every routine

Lay the routines out and pack a pair for each style. It is the swap that catches people out.

• Ballet flats, tap shoes, jazz shoes or sneakers, and pointe shoes if your dancer is up.
• A spare pair of the shoes used most, if you have them.
• Ribbons, elastics and a few spare toe pads from our foot and shoe accessories range.

Tights and undergarments

• At least two spare pairs of tights, because ladders happen at the worst moment. Browse tights and socks.
• Dance briefs to wear under costumes, plus a nude seamless crop or singlet for backstage changes.
• A dressing gown or robe so your dancer stays warm and covered between routines.

The full hair kit

A tidy bun holds all day when you have the right bits. If buns are new to you, our how to do a ballet bun guide walks you through it.

• Brush and comb, strong hold gel, a hair donut and hairnets in your dancer's colour.
• Bobby pins and hairpins (bring far more than you think), and covered hair elastics.
• Hairspray and any clips or headpieces the routine needs. Find these in hair accessories.

Stage makeup kit

Stage lights wash young faces out, so studios usually ask for a simple, uniform look. Our stage makeup for young dancers guide keeps it age appropriate.

• Foundation, blush, neutral eyeshadow, mascara and a lip colour to the studio's brief.
• Makeup wipes, cotton buds and a small mirror. Shop makeup and body accessories.

The rescue kit

• Safety pins in a few sizes and a small sewing kit with needle and matching thread.
• A first aid pouch: bandaids, blister plasters, paracetamol for you, and a spare hair tie or two.
• Double sided tape, deodorant and a lint roller for last minute costume fixes.

Comfort for the long wait

Eisteddfods run to their own clock, and there is a lot of waiting between routines. Pack for the hours, not just the minutes on stage.

• A labelled water bottle and mess free snacks that will not stain costumes.
• Quiet entertainment: a book, colouring, headphones or a favourite soft toy.
• A light snack for you too, and a phone charger for all those photos.

One last thing: you have got this. Pack the night before, tick each group off this list, and trust the preparation. Your dancer feeds off your calm, so a steady smile from you is the best thing in the bag.

Frequently asked questions