Do you know what I mean by ‘scary class’? One you’ve been eyeing up for yonks, LOVE the look of but feel wildly intimidated by?
Yep, for me that was Lucy Jane Adcock's Musical Theatre class in London. It took me 2 years to pluck up the courage to go but when I finally did, on Feb 5th 2025, I felt super positive about it! And I think there are a few things I did ahead of time, that helped me make the most of it.
1️⃣ I spoke to a friend who’d been before
Our own Tap/MT teacher, Lucy Mancinetti, in fact. She reassured me that the teacher was LOVELY. And told me about the structure of the class, so I knew what to expect. Nothing was a surprise in the room.
2️⃣ I planned my route to the class and left lots of time
It was my first time going to The Manor London (the dance studio) . I knew I’d be nervous beforehand. And I knew running late would make me super anxious. So I arrived 30min early and had 15min chilling in a cafe nearby before I went in. This warded off any extra, unnecessary anxiety.
3️⃣ I had a look at what people usually wore in the class
Now, hear me out as I am NOT the type of dancer to plan outfits/give a s*** about appearance. But, that day I was planning on wearing my classic ‘baggy trousers/grubby top’ combo. But then saw it was more a ‘leggings/white socks/trainers’ kinda class. And I’m glad I went down that route as it suited the movement and made me feel like I could blend in more.
4️⃣ During the class I spoke to myself*
(NOT OUTLOUD OBVS). I remember one moment when I couldn’t see what the teacher was doing. It was a tricky part of the dance and I didn’t get it immediately. And that familiar feeling of ‘AHHHH, I’VE LOST IT’ crept in. But then I told myself 1) the teacher will demo again 2) we’ll repeat it loads anyway 3) it’s one tiny section in a 40sec piece.
5️⃣ I gave myself a mantra
“Be your own biggest cheerleader”. It helped me keep up positive self-talk, so my brain didn’t have the chance to fill up with criticism. Plus it reminded me that I was on my own journey, having my own special day dancing in London. I literally didn’t have any other cheerleaders there, so I had to do it for myself! That helped me avoid of comparisons, focus on dancing and feel proud.
*I also spoke to other people btw. That was also v positive!
So yes, if you're currently eyeing up a 'scary class' I hope these tips help! Equally, do feel free to send us an email and we can help guide you to the right class/give you extra tips/give you the extra boost of encouragement you need to get yourself through that door!
Personally, I've really enjoyed feeling proud of myself for doing some scary. I hope you find that feeling too.
Much dancing love,
Angie xx
PS if you want to check out our current timetable head here ⬇
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