Save On Your Next Toronto Dance Class!

Looking for dance classes in the city? Here’s how you can save big on your next Toronto hip hop or tap dance classes! Click the image TODAY to learn more.

http://www.ShawnByfield.com/sale.htm

– Shawn B

What Dance Style Would You Love To Learn?

Learn how to dance in Toronto!

Inspired from watching So You Think You Can Dance (Canada) and Dancing With The Stars? Want to learn to look like a pro dancer?

Here’s a question: If you’ve never danced before, and have no formal training, what style of dance would you most like to learn and why?

I specialize in tap dance and hip hop dance, but would love to learn tango. Such a passionate and dynamic art form!

Leave your comments and share your thoughts here…

– Shawn Byfield

Shawn Byfield’s New Toronto Dance Website

Toronto tap dance and hip hop classes

Toronto tap dance and hip hop dance lovers,

Shawn here. Introducing:  My new and improved dance class website! It’s definitely much easier for you to use, go take a look:

http://www.ShawnByfield.com

You’ll notice right away that the look and feel are still the same…

Read more at Shawn Byfield’s Anyone Can Dance Blog

Tap Dance Choreographer in Toronto Star

Here’s an article from the Toronto Star I was featured in 2007.  Click the image to see a bigger version.

Shawn Byfield Toronto Star Interview

I just read it again, great write up of what I was doing at the time. 🙂 Not too fond of the thumbnail photo they used, but oh well! A thank you to Susan Walker for the interview.

Now, come and tap dance with me and my friends!

– Shawn B

The 4 Biggest Mistakes Dancers Make In Auditions

“The 4 Biggest Mistakes Dancers Make In Auditions- And How To Avoid Them”

For many performers in the dance industry, the word AUDITION can bring feelings of excitement, clarity and a world of opportunity. For others, it can bring feelings of anxiousness, confusion and unnecessary tension.

Like it or not, dance auditions are a way of life as a performer. But unfortunately, many dancers are NOT prepared for the moment that could potentially change their income, their way of life, and their happiness and passion toward their craft.

If you’re heading to a dance audition soon, use these 4 tips to ace your next audition, and gain an unfair advantage over the others in the room:

1. Not Prepared- Dancers who didn’t do their research, arrive with no headshot, no resume or bio, stayed up too late, lines aren’t memorized, forgot their prop, didn’t study or train, brought wrong dance shoes, etc. All above reasons are unacceptable. Be thoroughly prepared!
2. Not at the Right Ability– Don’t kid yourself if you haven’t danced in years, it’s been even longer since you’ve stretched, but you expect to get hired? Next please. Step your game up and show that you take yourself seriously.
3. Not Dressed Appropriately – When you arrive to the audition, make sure you look the part and act the part. Make a positive impression! Show up, act and look as if you are already hired. And a smile won’t hurt either.
4. Talking Too Much– Here’s the most important suggestion: DON’T waste people’s time, DON’T make excuses to your auditioning panel, and DON’T be defensive. DO take corrections and be open to direction. Be humble, be approachable, be interested in the FREE feedback, because these tips will get you closer to landing the job next time!

Remember, you are there to GET A JOB. Wouldn’t it make sence to put your best foot forward?

Yes, you always want to encourage others. Show the panel you are one they want to work with, and you’re supportive of your peers. But don’t forget: the more prepared you are, the better the outcome.

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About The Author:

Shawn Byfield (www.ShawnByfield.com) is an award winning choreographer, show director and a leading expert in dance lessons and industry advice. His extremely fun approach to learning is a must for anyone looking to achieve their highest potential through dance.