Bowing out gracefully

When dancers make commitments to perform in a show, they are expected to attend rehearsals, work hard, and dance their best on stage.  Sometimes things come up and dancers need to step out.  It can be a hard decision to let go of a part, but in certain situations it's necessary for the good of the dancer and the company.  In this post, I'll lay out the dos and don'ts of respectfully leaving a production.  (Note that when I refer to "company" in this post, I'm referring to any team or group [including local and youth dance companies] that regularly performs dance productions.  The procedures for bowing out of parts with professional dance companies is different, but follows the same basics.)

First, weigh the severity of the problem.  What's happening, and what impact does it have on your ability to perform?  If something huge happened (like you broke your leg and need surgery and a cast), you physically won't be able to dance, no matter how much you want to.  The same is true for injuries and illnesses where a doctor explicitly tells you not to dance.  It's necessary to bow out for your health and safety.

If you have an issue (generally illness or injury) that causes you to be in pain, miss rehearsals, or have a difficult time with choreography, it may be better to put dancing on pause until you're well.  In addition to preserving your health, it's beneficial to the company to have an understudy step in so the performance can move forward.  It can be tough to decide when to call it, but if you need to step out, it's best to do so as early as you can so the company has time to adjust before the performance.

If you have a personal or social issue with the director or other dancers, it can make dancing less fun and fulfilling.  It can be tempting to call it quits.  However, for the good of the company (and as an exercise in humility and self-control), it's best to stick with it for the duration of the performances.  Unless your safety is at risk, attend your rehearsals and perform in your shows as scheduled.  If things are still not so good, you can quit after the show when you aren't obligated to attend rehearsals and performances.

Once you've decided to bow out, think about how you will address the issue with the director.  It's best (and most sincere) if you do it yourself, but your parents can help if you're young or need assistance.

Most companies and teams have contracts dictating expected attendance and other requirements.  If your issue is causing you to break these requirements (such as missing too many rehearsals), this is a good place to start.  You might approach the director in person or on the phone and say something like, "My injury is more severe than we thought, and the doctor says I need to stop dancing for a few weeks.  Unfortunately, it will cause me to miss a lot of rehearsals, and I don't want to hold the group back.  I need to resign my part."  Always speak sincerely and lay out the facts.  It's fine to apologize or get emotional if it's a tough decision, but never blame anyone (including the doctor or yourself).  Most directors will understand, accept your decision, and work with an understudy to keep the show going.  Some directors may be a bit irritated or frustrated with the situation, but a good director won't hold it against you (especially if there's a valid health reason).

If you want to resume your place with the company after you're well, be sure to do all you can to support the company during each stage of recovery.  Perhaps you'll attend the performance as an audience member and resume taking low-impact classes when you get your cast off.  Even if you can't get back to your old level for some time, continue to show dedication and hard work so the director will know you are loyal and committed to the company and your place there.