In competitive dance, there’s a common misconception that “tricks” are synonymous with “technique.” Dancers, parents, and even some judges may confuse the two, prioritizing flashy moves over the solid, technical foundation needed to execute those moves properly. But what exactly separates tricks from technique, and why should teachers focus on building technical prowess before diving into the more thrilling aspects of dance? Let’s break it down.
Technique vs. Tricks: The Key Differences
Technique is the bedrock of every dancer’s ability. It’s how they carry themselves, how they work through their feet in every plié or chassé, and how they connect movements precisely. From a beautifully turned-out coupé to the controlled extension of the neck and shoulders, these subtle elements define a dancer’s technical skill.
In contrast, tricks—like pirouettes, tumbling, or jumps—are visually impressive feats performed for show. While these tricks can elevate a performance, they must be executed with sound technique to be truly effective. This distinction is critical for teachers and choreographers who want their students to thrive in competitions and as lifelong, technically sound dancers.
The Role of Technique in Preschool Dance Education
For young learners, incorporating dance in early education through structured lessons is essential for laying the groundwork for good technique. For instance, when teaching toddlers and preschoolers basic movements, they should focus on form, balance, and coordination rather than pushing them into tricks too early.
To support educators in building this foundation, platforms like Moververse offer preschool teacher dance resources specifically designed to prioritize technique. Their approach ensures that every dance class helps students develop strength, flexibility, and control—necessary skills before moving on to more advanced dance tricks.
The Dangers of Prioritizing Tricks Over Technique
As tempting as it may be to incorporate impressive tricks into choreography, pushing dancers to perform moves they aren’t ready for can lead to frustration, injury, and a lack of confidence. Judges can spot the difference between a solid pirouette and one poorly executed, no matter how many rotations are attempted. The same principle applies in early childhood dance programs: overemphasizing tricks before children have developed basic dance techniques can stunt their growth.
One key issue seen at dance competitions is dancers performing tricks without the proper technical foundation. This is particularly true for younger dancers or those in the early stages of their training. Encouraging students to build strong technique through programs like dance lesson plans for preschool ensures they have a robust understanding of movement fundamentals before moving on to more complex tricks.
Building the Right Dance Foundation
Teachers must understand when and how to introduce tricks into a dancer’s routine. The choreography should flow naturally, with tricks enhancing the performance, not disrupting it. This is particularly true in the preschool dance environment.
Great technique never goes out of style. It enhances every type of dance, from classical ballet to modern jazz. While tricks can add excitement and flair to a routine, they should never replace the fundamentals of solid technique. Programs that focus on both elements, like those available through Moververse, offer the perfect balance for dancers at all levels, ensuring they are not just performers but artists who understand the intricate details of movement.
Final Thoughts
When teaching young dancers, remember that technique forms the foundation of a dancer’s journey, while tricks are just the cherry on top. A well-rounded curriculum, such as the one offered by Moververse, gives teachers the tools to create dance lesson plans for preschool that emphasize technical skills while gradually introducing age-appropriate tricks.
By focusing on the fundamentals, dancers can confidently master both technique and tricks, ensuring they’re always ready for the stage—whether in a competition or life.