Let's Give 'Em Props!

Dancing with props is always difficult. Not only do you have to make sure you know your counts, but you also have to worry about handling an object all at the same time. A prop can be a hat, a cane, a ball, an umbrella, glasses, or a scarf, among many examples. But it can also be clothing (as part of your costume). This very prop can also make or break a performance too. Here are a few pointers to help manage the evil object:

1. A prop is like makeup. It's only supposed to visually enhance your routine. The minute it overshadows the dance or takes away from the dance, get rid of it.
2. A prop doesn't need to be used through the whole choreography. You can use your prop during strategic parts of the music.
3. Get familiar with your prop: fiddle around with, get comfortable maneuvering it. The more comfortable you are, the less you'll need to worry about it when you dance and the more effortless you'll look using it. Effortless is what the end result should always be.
4. Make sure your prop is in good condition/well fastened: always verify that your ball is inflated, your umbrella can open, your cane isn't broken or your glasses can stay on your face. That makes a difference in terms of how your movement looks in relation to your object. It also avoids malfunctions from happening onstage.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice. It's really obvious advice, I know, but it never hurts to practice. Afterall, it gets you closer to perfection.
6. Be aware of where your prop is at all times, whether in your hand or not. That way, you can always make adjustments throughout your performance.

Here are a few of examples of successful prop management. The first example displays umbrellas as props to a remix of 'Singin' In The Rain.



The second example displays newspapers as a prop. Although it's not a hip-hop routine (it's jazz), notice how they're aware of where their newspapers are because it's only used at the beginning and the end.



Finally, this example displays how clothing can be an accessory to your choreo!