Getting Ready For Auditions With Andrea
Auditions for all three Connecticut Sun dance teams have been announced. In advance of the auditions, Dance Team Coordinator Andrea Ricci took some time to answer questions from connecticutsun.com. To get more information on all of the auditions, Click here.
What qualities to do you look for when auditioning dancers for the Solar Power Dance Team?
“The judges look for well-rounded, poised, confident, and talented dancers at auditions. As representatives of the Connecticut Sun, I feel a positive attitude and friendly personality is just as important as technical ability. I look for someone that will work well with others and is moldable. All dancers have different styles so it is important to pick a group that can adapt to different styles and choreography. A strong background in jazz and hip hop is a must.”
How much turnover is there on the team from year to year?
“All former members must audition each year as their spot is not guaranteed. I like to start with a clean slate to be fair to those coming out for the first time. Auditions are tough and on average about 50 percent of the team are returning members. This number varies each year based on talent levels at our auditions.”
Has the Senior Dance Team lived up to your expectations for it?
“We have a great group of senior dancers. I am truly impressed with their talent, showmanship, and commitment and they have surpassed my expectations. Stay tuned for some new material and new ideas for the 2011 season.”
Do you find it rewarding working with the seniors and seeing them having so much fun, especially when the crowd responds the way it does?
“I love working with the Senior Dance Team! They are a great group of ladies that love performing for the Connecticut Sun fans. The ladies practice once a week as a team and often meet on the side to perfect their routines. They are always energetic, positive, and give it 110 percent. The crowd reaction is amazing. I would love to have some men join the group this year.”
What would you tell parents about the benefits of having their children involved in the Munchkin Dance Team?
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for a young dancer. I think back to when I was their age and would have loved the chance to perform for a WNBA team. They have the opportunity to work with new choreographers, dancers from different backgrounds and training, and have a blast practicing and performing. This is great exposure and a nice resume addition for those looking to explore a career later in life as a professional dancer. The group dances for the best team in WNBA! “
Are you surprised at the level of talent out there among the children who try out for the team?
“I am continually amazed at the talent level during auditions. Each year, new dancers audition and I am noticing more and more young dancers with extraordinary ability. I cannot wait to see who comes out this year. The Munchkins get better every year. It is very competitive.”
What qualities to do you look for when auditioning dancers for the Solar Power Dance Team?
“The judges look for well-rounded, poised, confident, and talented dancers at auditions. As representatives of the Connecticut Sun, I feel a positive attitude and friendly personality is just as important as technical ability. I look for someone that will work well with others and is moldable. All dancers have different styles so it is important to pick a group that can adapt to different styles and choreography. A strong background in jazz and hip hop is a must.”
How much turnover is there on the team from year to year?
“All former members must audition each year as their spot is not guaranteed. I like to start with a clean slate to be fair to those coming out for the first time. Auditions are tough and on average about 50 percent of the team are returning members. This number varies each year based on talent levels at our auditions.”
Has the Senior Dance Team lived up to your expectations for it?
“We have a great group of senior dancers. I am truly impressed with their talent, showmanship, and commitment and they have surpassed my expectations. Stay tuned for some new material and new ideas for the 2011 season.”
Do you find it rewarding working with the seniors and seeing them having so much fun, especially when the crowd responds the way it does?
“I love working with the Senior Dance Team! They are a great group of ladies that love performing for the Connecticut Sun fans. The ladies practice once a week as a team and often meet on the side to perfect their routines. They are always energetic, positive, and give it 110 percent. The crowd reaction is amazing. I would love to have some men join the group this year.”
What would you tell parents about the benefits of having their children involved in the Munchkin Dance Team?
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for a young dancer. I think back to when I was their age and would have loved the chance to perform for a WNBA team. They have the opportunity to work with new choreographers, dancers from different backgrounds and training, and have a blast practicing and performing. This is great exposure and a nice resume addition for those looking to explore a career later in life as a professional dancer. The group dances for the best team in WNBA! “
Are you surprised at the level of talent out there among the children who try out for the team?
“I am continually amazed at the talent level during auditions. Each year, new dancers audition and I am noticing more and more young dancers with extraordinary ability. I cannot wait to see who comes out this year. The Munchkins get better every year. It is very competitive.”
