Quick Tip Tuesday: No More “Dead Face” – A Quick Fix For Lifeless Performances
Hey Friend!
You’ve seen it. The dancer who NAILS every step…
…but their face is giving NOTHING. 😐
Maybe they’re shy. Maybe they’re thinking too hard. Maybe they’re convinced their eyebrows will fall off if they show emotion?
Whatever the reason, dancers need to perform with their whole body... INCLUDING their face.
Here’s a quick, step-by-step trick I use to unlock expression in “dead-face” dancers BEFORE they hit the stage. Literally, just copy this below and try it this week:
The “Mirror & Match” Game
Pair dancers up. Have them face each other, and mirror each other’s facial expressions while you give verbal instructions.
Start with basic emotions: happy, surprised, fierce, sassy.
Then, level up. Tie the emotions to dance styles. For example: joy for salsa, intensity for contemporary, sassy for commercial jazz.
Get the idea?
💡 Why it works: Instead of “forcing” an expression, they see it reflected back at them, which makes it feel natural. Plus, they get instant feedback in a fun, low-pressure way.
Try this in your next class. Your dancers’ faces will light up AND their confidence will grow! High-five,
-Shawn B
PS: Want more tools to take your dancers from technically strong to stage-ready stars? Grab my Dance Teacher Playbook. Because it’s packed with actionable strategies, and because you’re a subscriber, you get $1094 OF FREE BONUSES when you show proof of purchase! Hit reply to find out. 🎁
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