The local dance studio community has been especially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as dancers have faced various challenges from virtual rehearsals to canceled performances. The Studio-Dance Perfection in Plainview, a competitive dance studio for children ages 3-18, has made the necessary adjustments to accommodate safety protocols in order to provide dancers with a dance season.
Prior to entry, studio patrons are reminded of the mask mandate. “Anyone who refuses to cooperate with our guidelines is not allowed to enter the studio. We do this to ensure the safety of our TSDP community,” said studio manager Nicole N.
Upon entering the studio, dancers are greeted with a message outlining what is required of them. The whiteboard has been decorated with these mandates since the beginning of the dance season.
The first thing dancers must do once they arrive is have their temperature checked. “Small things like having our temperature checked and wearing masks are what keep us safe and allow us to continue dancing together in person.” said student Kaity L.
The front desk of the studio, which usually displays trophies and medals from competitions, is guarded by plastic shields that prevent contact between those on opposite sides of the desk. Front desk assistant Cathy B. said, “It is upsetting to have to be physically separated from the students like this, but we understand how necessary it is for everyone’s safety.”
Markers placed on the floor throughout the studio designate where students and teachers must stand in order to remain socially distanced from one another.
Teacher Brianna B. sanitizes her hands before she begins teaching a class. Purell and other disinfectants are available throughout the studio for the convenience and safety of both teachers and students.
Studio floors are lined with tape meant to isolate students during rehearsals. Teacher Brianna B. said, “Younger students are usually the hardest to keep in place. They tend to wander, so we place markers at the center of each box in our toddler classes to make sure they know exactly where to stand.”
The larger room is usually occupied by older students, who are also required to maintain social distancing rules. Student Abby M. said, “While we have to remain separated, we still have plenty of space to practice tricks and rehearse choreography.”
Plaques earned by the various competition teams line the wall, allowing students to reminisce about pre-COVID dance performances. Student Kaity L. said, “The restrictions make me less excited about competitions because even if they do happen this season, they probably won’t be able to function the way they have in the past. We will be losing a lot of the exciting parts of competitions, such as in-person awards and sitting in the audience during other performances.”
