A first feis can be a daunting experience for both parent and child. Here are some great tips to help you out …
1. Your teacher is your first port of call
Before you go to your first feis your teacher should be able to give you all information about times, venue, costumes etc. The people that run the entry systems like Entry Table would not have this information.
If your teacher is unavailable you can download the feis syllabus for Leinster feiseanna here.
The syllabus contains information on feiseanna, including feis organisers’ contact information.
2. Bring cash for admission at the door 💶
There is a fee for admission for adults at feiseanna. Usually €5, that you will usually need to pay in cash.
Sometimes this may be payable in advance when you pre enter.
3. Don’t forget to bring:
- Dancing shoes
- poodle socks (for girls)
- Dancing costume
- Dancer number
- Hairband or hair accessories
- Your smile 😀
4. Wear your Teamwear
If you have school Teamwear you should wear this before/after your dances to support others from your school that are there.
5. Arrive 30 mins before your scheduled time
You should arrive 30 mins before the time you are due to dance. Children need to be ready in their shoes and costumes 15 mins before their first competition starts.
6. Remind children:
- They will be dancing with other children from different schools who will be doing different dances. Don’t look at other children when you are dancing, keep concentrating on your own dance
- Keep listening to the music
- Have fun
7. All times are approximate
While every effort is made by the organisers to keep things moving, often things run behind. The first competition in the morning will be on time and as the day goes on it can run later than the time stated on the timetable. However having said that you still need to arrive 30 mins before your accolated time, but just be prepared you may be waiting a little longer some days!
8. Bring snacks and activities
Even if a feis is running on time there can be some waiting around time between dances and waiting for results. It is a good idea to bring snacks and maybe some colouring books or activities if your child is young!
9. Don’t expect trophies your first time
All the children will get a medal so nobody will go home empty handed 🏅
However, children always want to win the much coveted trophies. For most children it is unlikely they will win a trophy at their first feis. A lot of practice and experience is needed for top prizes. Children should just try to enjoy their first feis.
10. No recording 📹
Remember that for child safety reasons there can be no video recording or pictures taken while a child is dancing on stage. You can take pictures of the prize giving.