Dance Team Auditions: Frequently Asked Questions
Joe Murphy/NBAE/Getty Images
Answers to commonly asked questions about the Grizzlies Dance Team Auditions.
Click on a question to show or hide the answer.
What are the requirements to attend auditions and become a Grizzlies Dancer?
A Grizzlies dancer/audition candidate must meet the following criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years of age at the time of the audition. There is no maximum age limit.
- You must be a High School graduate or higher
- You must be a full time student, hold part time job, or have alternate means of income
- You need a schedule flexible enough to accommodate 2-3 rehearsals per week in addition to game nights
- You must own a reliable car
- You must have previous dance training in Jazz and Hip Hop
- You must be willing to meet and maintain physical conditioning requirements throughout season
- You need to have a strong work ethic
- You must be capable of picking up and retaining choreography
- You must be a committed team player
What do I need to bring to auditions?
Please bring the following to auditions:
- 5x7 Non-returnable headshot – Your photo should be a current representation of yourself, and should be of only you.
- Dance resumé - outline your performance experience along with anything else you would like the judges to know about you.
What should I wear to the audition? How should I wear my hair?
Look your best at auditions and you’ll feel your best. Your attire should include the following:
- Nude fishnets, tights or panty hose
- Briefs or hot pants (no long pants allowed)
- Crop top (mid-section must show)
- Dance sneakers or non-marking tennis shoes only
- Attire should be flattering
- Performance Hair & Make-up are a must!
What do the judges look for at auditions?
Judges will focus on the following criteria:
- Dance technique and style
- Showmanship, personality, and energy
- Physical/personal appearance - Applicants must be in top physical condition. While there are no specific height and weight requirements to become a Grizzlies Dancer, your height and weight must be proportionate.
How can I best prepare for auditions?
Take a variety of classes to ensure you are mentally and physically prepared to learn and process choreography. Workout regularly so that you audition in the best physical condition as possible. Also, take the Grizzlies Dance Team Pre-Audition Classes and Workshops Find out which classes are available in your area. These classes will give you an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the choreographic style of the coach, and learn parts of the actual audition routine.
What is the difference between the Dance Team workshop and the Pre-Audition class?
The Dance Team Workshops are designed to get you comfortable with the Grizzlies Dance Team choreography style. You will experience a typical Dance Team rehearsal. Participants will be taught choreography from a current Grizzlies routine. One class will focus on Hip-Hop, the other will be more Jazz-focused. Current dance team members will be on hand to assist and to answer any questions. There are two classes available in Memphis. The classes are $25 each (or $40 for both).
The Pre-Audition Classes give participants the opportunity to be better prepared on audition day, by learning choreography from the actual audition routine. Each class will teach a different portion of the audition routine. Though classes are not required, participation is strongly encouraged. Classes are available for $25 each. See the class schedule.
How do I sign up for classes?
Fill out this registration form (note: CreativeSvcs is working on the form) to secure your spot then bring a check or cash with you to the first class that you wish to attend.
What type of things will I have to do for auditions?
Audition routines will consist of jazz, technical and hip hop styles. You will learn all the dance combinations at auditions. You will not have to perform your own routine at any time.
How long with auditions take?
The length of the audition process varies. It is suggested to not make any other plans for the day of the first round as there is no exact time set for the audition to end.
What can I expect in the interview process?
Be prepared to introduce yourself and provide an overview of your background, education and goals.
Will the auditions be open to the public?
First Round auditions in all cities will be closed to the public. The Final auditions at Horseshoe Casino-Bluesville will be open to the public.
Do current Grizzlies Dance Team members have to audition?
Yes, all returning members must go through the audition process each season. Their spots on the team are not guaranteed.
I can’t make the audition date in my town? Is there any other way to audition?
You may attend an audition in one of the other three cities on the tour if you can’t make the audition date in your town.
What if I don’t make the final cut in my city? Can I audition again in another city?
If you don’t succeed the first time, you can definitely try again. You’re welcome to attend auditions in all four cities if that’s what it takes.
Where are The Finals? Do I have to provide my own transportation to get there if I make the cut?
The Finals will be held on Saturday, June 19 at Horseshoe Casino - Bluesville in Tunica, MS. Finalists will be responsible for their own transportation arrangements.
What is the “Audition Finalists’ Review Session”?
A review session will take place for all finalists prior to The Finals. During this session, all finalists will be asked to choreograph an individual routine of four-8-counts of movement to be performed at the finals.
At this time, the Dance Team Choreographer will teach additional choreography to be performed during finals. She will also give critiques on your progress during this review time. Finalists will also review the audition dance, which will be performed for judges and the public at the finals show.
How many dancers will be selected for the Grizzlies Dance Team?
Between 15-20 dancers will be chosen.
If I currently do not reside in the Memphis area, will I have to relocate?
Yes, Grizzlies dancers will need to reside in the Memphis area. Rehearsals, appearances, and home games will take place primarily in Memphis.
Is this a full time job?
Being a Grizzlies dancer is not a full time job. All dancers must either hold a part time job, or be a full time student in addition to their Dance Team duties. Dancers are responsible for ensuring their schedules are flexible enough too accommodate rehearsals and games. A total commitment is required. The time commitment is usually 10-20 hours a week for rehearsal and promotional appearances in addition to the home games.
Is this a paid job?
Yes, this is a professional position. Dancers are compensated for rehearsals, home games, and appearances.
If you didn't find an answer to your question here, please send an email or call the Grizzlies Dance Team Audition hotline at 901.205.1411.
MVP News
for Season Ticket Holders
Search
Calendar
 |
|
Thu, Jul 24
Pre-Olympics: Spain vs. Lithuania - 1pm | |
| |
Sat, Jul 26
Pre-Olympics: Spain vs. Argentina - 1:30pm | |
| |
Mon, Jul 28
Pre-Olympics: Spain vs. Hungary - 3:15pm | |
| |
| |