Performance
Guidelines

ReCreation Tappers guidelines for performance attire and appearance are designed to present a professional, uniform look free of distractions that can interfere with audience appreciation. Performers are expected to adhere to these guidelines. Any additions or changes in dress or appearance for specific numbers will be announced by the Artistic Director well in advance of performances.

The guidelines cover apparel, jewelry, hair, makeup and nails.

1. PANTS:  The Artistic Director has specified an “RCT Performance Pant.”  These straight-leg, plain black pants are flattering and durable. RCT has a limited supply available at RCT’s cost, $40. Performers are responsible for making sure the pants are hemmed to break at the instep.

2. TOPS:  For many numbers, RCT dancers wear plain black V-neck, ¾-sleeve tops made of the same fabric as the RCT Performance Pant. RCT has a limited supply of tops, available at RCT’s cost, $35. Other tops specified by the Artistic Director or choreographers for specific numbers are supplied to performers by RCT and kept in inventory. Under all tops, dancers must wear their own opaque sleeveless black undergarment, e.g., tank top, camisole or shaper, tucked into the pants. This undergarment must have a neckline deep enough so that it does not show under our Performance Top or other costume tops. This item of clothing ensures that bare midriffs are not exposed when dancers twist, turn, bend or raise their arms and also provides for modesty when changing costume tops without a private space.  

3. HOSIERY:  All dancers must wear their own opaque, plain black hosiery or trouser socks so that no flesh tones are visible between tap shoes and the hem of the black pants.

4. SHOES:  Dancers wear their own solid-black, oxford-style flat tap shoes.

5. JEWELRY:  Only jewelry and accessories specified by the Artistic Director or the choreographer of a number are permitted.  No personal jewelry, please.  This includes rings, earrings, bracelets, wristwatches, necklaces, pins, hair ornaments and ankle bracelets. Dancers who are unable to remove their rings prior to a performance can turn them around and cover them with a flesh-colored band-aid. This creates a uniform appearance free of distractions and prevents injury (a ring, bracelet or watch on your swinging arm can injure another dancer).  It also prevents damage or loss of personal items. Unless otherwise specified by the Artistic Director, all dancers will wear RCT-issued crystal stud earrings at every performance. They are available from the Artistic Director in both pierced and clip-on styles. Each performer receives one pair of her own to keep, at no charge. Replacements for lost or broken earrings are available.

6. HAIR:  Hair should be neat and simple in order to accommodate costume headpieces. Hair that is shoulder-length or longer must be swept cleanly back from the face (bangs excepted) and secured with plain bobby pins and/or plain hairpins in a bun at the back of the head/nape of the neck, or in a low ponytail lying on the back of the neck. (no scrunchies or butterfly clips, etc.).  No tendrils, curls or fringe at the side of the face. 

7. MAKEUP:  Makeup is important, and performers must wear it. Eye shadows should be earth tones, and performers must wear carefully applied blush and BRIGHT RED LIPSTICK.  Lipstick must be bright red, not hot pink, coral or brown). Allergic to makeup?  Try a hypoallergenic brand like Almay and/or wear what you can without a reaction. 

8. NAILS:  Fingernails should be natural, French-manicured, or polished in a light neutral or pastel shade.  No bright red, coral, hot pink, brown or offbeat colors.

Break a leg!