When Excitement Turns Into a Lesson – Our Audition Journey

A Sunday Evening Full of Promise

Last Sunday evening filled us with excitement. We had just been invited to audition for a new performance opportunity—something truly special. This wasn’t just any stage performance. It was an audition that could lead to sharing the spotlight with musicians, poets, and singers at a multicultural event. What a brilliant opportunity for our young dancers!

Even more exciting: this would have been our first audition experience as a group. A brand-new adventure awaited our children—and us as a team. As dance teachers, we are always on the lookout for meaningful opportunities that help children grow in confidence, discipline, creativity, and teamwork. Every new performance is a step forward, not only artistically, but personally.

Reaching Out to Parents

Before we could begin preparations, we had to share the news with our parents and see who would be interested. Normally, such announcements are met with enthusiasm. But this time, the response was mixed.

The reason? Just the day before, we had completed an incredible performance. The children gave their all on stage, and the emotions and excitement were still fresh. Understandably, some parents and children felt fulfilled and needed a break. Others were still riding the high and eager for more.

Technical Work in Full Swing

Time was short. We had only one week to prepare for the audition. On Monday, we got to work: a dedicated webpage was created, a preference poll designed, and everything linked together and sent to families.

By Tuesday morning, responses started to arrive. Some were eager to take part. Others were too tired. And we understood—families juggle school, jobs, after-school activities, and daily life. Everyone deserves rest, and pyjama days are still important.

A few parents expressed interest in the final performance but were unable to attend the audition. Unfortunately, that’s not how auditions work. Organisers must see the actual performers to make a decision. We needed to represent ourselves in person.

Some families didn’t respond at all. That’s part of the process, and we accept it with grace.

Ready and Waiting

By Wednesday evening, we had a final list of participants. It was time to coordinate the journey: where we would meet, how we’d travel, what to bring. The technical work continued—new webpage, consent forms, risk assessment, payment link—all designed to be clear and easy to follow for every family.

On Thursday morning, the link was sent. Relief! Most of the work was done. All we had to do now was wait for Saturday.

An Unexpected Turn

Then, just after midday on Thursday, we received a message from one of the parents: “My child has chickenpox.”

Only four days earlier, all the children had been on stage together. Two days before, they shared the same ballet class. We knew instantly what this meant—others might become unwell too. With such uncertainty, we had no choice but to cancel the audition—and with it, the performance.

Starting Again – But With Hope

It meant returning to square one: writing a cancellation message, creating another webpage, sending the update to all families. A bit exhausting, yes—but it’s all part of the journey.

We remain optimistic. There will be more opportunities—new stages, new experiences, and hopefully, better timing. Every step, even the cancelled ones, brings learning, growth, and the joy of being part of a creative process.

We’ll be ready when the next door opens!