What Judges Wish Dancers Knew: Advice From Behind the TTB Table

The TTB Team
May 2
2 min read

At every Ticket To Broadway event, we bring together a panel of experienced, passionate, and professional judges who are not only evaluating performances — they’re rooting for your success. But what if you could peek behind the table and hear the one thing they wish every dancer knew before stepping on the TTB stage?

We asked our judges what advice they’d give to dancers, and here’s what came up again and again:

1. We See Everything — Not Just the Tricks

Of course, your technique matters; yes, that triple pirouette is impressive. But intention, connection, and storytelling make a dancer stand out. Judges are drawn to dancers who can tell a story with their movement and mean every step.

2. Performance Starts the Second You Step on Stage

From the moment you walk into the light, we’re watching. That means confidence, focus, and presence, even in your entrance and exit, matter. Treat those transitions with as much care as your choreography, and you’ll leave a lasting impression.

3. Clean Over Complicated

We’d rather see a routine full of clean lines, strong fundamentals, and confident execution than one packed with tricks that aren’t quite there yet. Always aim for consistency and clarity — that’s what gets noticed (and scored).

4. Your Facial Expressions Matter

No, you don’t need to plaster on a smile for every routine, but you do need to be expressive. Let your face reflect the emotion of the piece. Whether it’s fierce, joyful, dramatic, or tender, let us feel what you’re feeling.

5. We’re On Your Side

Judges aren’t here to criticize — we’re here to help dancers grow. Every score and every comment is meant to encourage improvement and recognize the hard work you’ve put in. We want you to succeed, and we genuinely love watching you perform.

Final Thoughts:

At Ticket To Broadway, we know that competition can be nerve-wracking, but it can also be one of the most rewarding parts of your dance journey. Keep training hard, stay true to your artistry, and remember: the judges are here to celebrate your growth, not just your score.