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Grizz Girls Audition FAQ

Find answers to commonly asked questions about the Grizz Girls Auditions.

What are the requirements to attend auditions and become a Grizz Girl?

A Grizz Girl 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, or have a part time job
  • You need a schedule flexible enough to accommodate 2-3 rehearsals per week in addition to game nights

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)
  • Jazz shoe, dance sneakers or non-marking tennis shoes only
  • Attire should be flattering. Dress to impress!
  • 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.

What are the criteria you are looking for in a Grizz Girl?

We are looking for the following characteristics:

  • Must be able to strongly perform a variety of dance styles; particularly jazz, street jazz, and hip hop
  • Must be able to learn choreography quickly, and have strong memory retention
  • Must be willing to meet and maintain physical conditioning requirements throughout season
  • Must be a team player
  • Must have strong work ethic; willing to work hard and commit at all times
  • Must be personable withh strong communication skills, willing to engage with others with a high level of enthusiasm, confidence, and poise.

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 Girl Play Dance Classes. These classes will give you an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the choreographic style of the coach, and receive feedback on what to work on.

What are Girl Play dance classes and Pre-Audition Clinics?

The Girl Play Dance Classes are designed to get you comfortable with the Grizz Girls choreography style. You will experience a typical Grizz Girls rehearsal. Participants will begin with a warm up, participate in across the floor combinations, and learn a choreographed routine. Classes will range from jazz, to jazz funk and hip hop. Participants will receive one-on-one feedback and audition tips from the Grizz Girls Choreographer. Current Grizz Girls will also be on hand to assist and to answer any questions. Different choreography is taught at each session. Classes are $10 per class ($6 for college students with I.d.) and take place on Tuesdays at 8pm and Thursdays at 6pm at Madison Dance Studios located at 1555 Madison Ave. inside of Minglewood Hall.

There will be a two part clinic to help dancers learn parts of the audition routine early. Part 1 will take place Wednesday, July 2nd from 6:30pm – 8:30pm and Part 2 will take place Wednesday, July 9th from 6:30pm – 8:30pm at New Ballet Ensemble, 2157 York Ave. Memphis TN. Clinic fee is $25 per clinic or $40 for both sessions. Different choreography will be taught at each session. Each session will include an overview of the requirements for the team, tips on how to prepare, across the floor combinations that will be used on audition day, and choreography that will be in the actual audition routine. Pre-Audition Clinics are not mandatory in order to audition, however they are strongly encouraged. Get details and download and print the registration form.

How do I sign up for classes?

No need to sign up. Just bring $10 and walk in. If you have questions, send us an email.

What type of things will I have to do for auditions?

Audition routines will consist of jazz, technical and hip hop styles. Across the floor combinations including jazz walks, turns, and leaps to assess technical ability will open the auditions. The entire routine will choreography will be taught. Once the routine is taught, dancers will have to perform the routine for the judges in groups of three. You will not need to have a personal routine prepared for the auditions, however dancers may be asked to freestyle.Download and fill out audition form in advance of auditions.

Is there an interview process?

Yes, there will be interviews conducted for all dancers that make it past the first round of auditions.

If I make it past the First Round Auditions, are there any additional dates I need to prepare for leading up to the Finals?

Yes. Once dancers are picked to proceed to the Finals, they will participate in a Grizz Girls Boot Camp. The schedule is as follows: Sunday, July 13 from 1pm – 5pm, Monday, July 14 from 6:30pm – 9pm, and Tuesday, July 15 all day. Finalists must be available for all dates of the Audition Boot Camp, in order to participate in the Finals Showcase on Tuesday, July 15.

Will the auditions be open to the public?

First Round auditions at Rhodes College will be closed to the public. The Audition Finals will be open and free to the public. Audition Finals will be on Tuesday, July 15 at The Orpheum Theater in Downtown Memphis. Showtime is 7pm. Doors at 6pm.

Do current Grizz Girls members have to audition?

Yes, all returning members must go through the audition process each season. Their spots on the team are not guaranteed.

How many dancers will be selected for the Grizzlies Dance Team?

Between 16-20 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 to 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.