I'm looking to create a performance group and I'm looking into other performance/learning opportuinites for my students without the need for competition. I know about the Rockkete Experience and conventions, but I'm wondering if there are other ideas I don't know about?!

Thanks!

Performance opportunities include school performances, lecture demonstrations, nursing home performances, holiday performances (tree lighting etc.), parades etc.

I direct a semi-pro dance team (my second), and it's hard to find competitions for adults. So, what I'll have them do is attend local events. In my city, there are always parades, and they need performers. Also, community service events love having performers- this includes charity walks and runs, non-profit fundraisers, galas, and festivals.

If I were you, I would start out by searching for local non-profits, then looking at their schedule of events. Contact them (a nice email is sufficient), and ask if you could perform at the event. Then, search for festivals in your area (example: I googled "Austin, Texas festivals" and was able to find a ton of them).

I'm listed on Gigmasters.com for childrens party entertainment. We've done engagement parties, senior centers, backyard birthdays, school fundraisers, etc. We charge a small fee, as does this booking site, and I split with the dancers.

We've also been contacted by local mega movie complexes, which don't pay, but they give free movie passes. My teen dancers did a fifties routine; my kids did Hula dancing for a luau in the lobby.

We perform alot... every month at least once and up to every weekend through the summer and holiday season. We had over 20 performances last year.

We have done festivals, arts events, jam sessions (clogging + bluegrass = no brainer), children's events, pre-shows at the theater, schools, entertainment venues, malls... the list goes on!

Connect with schools, libraries, shops, chamber of commerce, tourism board, musicians... EVERYONE!

I could have my students out every weekend - and then some - if I wanted to. We turn down alot of opportunities. I do not charge for performances, however we have been given freebies. Once I have a solid performance team, I will start to charge. I don't feel comfortable with it until I KNOW it's worth their money.

It's all about networking. Sell yourself and take only what works with the performance.

Have fun!