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I can remember attending award banquets as a child to see my older siblings receive honors. The evenings were long, hot, and uncomfortable as we all sat on the hard bleachers in the gymnasium. My one hope was that after the lengthy ceremony, there would be cool beverages and yummy cookies. It was so disappointing if there were no refreshments waiting for us.
When I became the center director of a creativity center, I was in a position to deal with events like this. In our town, we were known for having the best refreshments after every recital. The first year, it took a little coaxing to get the parents to help out. Once they could see how everyone enjoyed having some treats while socializing after the recital, it was easy to keep this tradition going.
Why have refreshments ready at the end of a recital? First, you can promote “networking” with respect to parents and other members of the community. Also, you can encourage discussion about future plans and donations. In addition, potential students can have a chance to meet with performers and teachers in order to find out about future class registration.
What is the secret behind this? How can it be done? You need to have a refreshment “manager” who will post a sign-up sheet at your dance studio. That person will take responsibility for making sure people sign up to bring a plate of something for at least one performance. Any parent who enjoys planning parties will be great in this role. Have a different sign-up sheet for each performance to insure that you will have enough refreshments for everyone who attends. Include both hot and cold beverages like coffee and punch. Splurge with all sorts of desserts like pies, cakes, and cookies. You can also serve healthier choices like fresh fruit and vegetables. Make sure to have enough serving supplies like cups, plates, napkins, and silverware.
Of course, people will be attending the dance recital in order to see the performance, not have the refreshments. But, anyone who has been involved with such events knows that they can be lengthy and hot, since they often take place in the summer. Providing refreshments after the show can certainly enhance the experience for everyone. It’s a time to celebrate and share your enjoyment with a tasty treat or two or three... |
