Most Frequently Asked Questions About PDS Company Starz


1. What is PDS looking for?
Most importantly, you need to love dance. But in addition to that, we look for dancers with a positive attitude, a willingness to try new things, the ability to get along with others, an unselfish team attitude, internal motivation, and a good work ethic. You must also have a desire to grow and improve as a dancer.


2. What will I gain from being a Company Starz member?
Being a member of our Starz team teaches students teamwork, accountability, perseverance, and goal setting. The extra attention to detail that goes along with routine cleaning as part of competition preparation often advances the skill of the dancers much faster than taking classes alone. Dancers build relationships, learn interpersonal skills, and are encouraged to strive for self-improvement.


3. How old do you have to be to be on the Company Starz?
You need to be at least 7 years of age by January 1st. Starz Team classes are put together by the Studio Manager?s recommendation. Both age and skill level are taken into consideration for placement.


4. How often will we practice?
5 hours a week between 2 nights a week required. Additional classes and private lessons for solos, duets, and trios are up to the individual.


5. How many routines will we learn? What style?
Each team member will learn 3-4 routines for competition based on the abilities of the team. Styles will be selected after our evaluation and placement day and may include Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Musical Theatre or Hip Hop.


6. Is there any prerequisite to be a member of Company Starz?
You should have experience and knowledge of the basics in Ballet, Jazz and Tap. It is suggested that you take at least 1 year of our Recreational Classes before joining Company Starz. However, auditions will ultimately determine if you are at the level of Company Starz to be a part of the team.


7. What classes will I need to take in the summer?
We would like to have the Company Starz members take classes continually throughout the year. It is strongly recommended that you take one Ballet class and one Technique class this summer. This will give you the best preparation for our season and a jump start to begin Choreography.


8. What competitions do Company Starz perform at?
We compete locally and regionally. Most of the competitions we attend are local, however we will travel at least twice a year to conventions/competitions in North and South Carolina.


9. How much financial responsibility is involved with Company Starz?
In addition to tuition and costumes, Company Starz members need to pay for competition/convention fees. We will be doing fundraising to help offset these costs.


10. I'm interested, what do I do?
Contact a studio director to schedule your evaluation and pick up a Palmetto Dance Starz packet.