FAQs
Do I need dance experience?
Dance experience is required. Throughout the season we have little time to break down steps, and
choreography needs to be learned very quickly. We are looking for dancers with strong skills and
technique, but also excellent performers who are eager to learn and display a positive attitude at all
times. Do not assume that a weakness in any one area will automatically disqualify you as a team
member.
Do returning Dance Team members have to audition?
Yes. We believe it is very important for everyone to audition each year to avoid complacency. All
returning dancers are required to re-audition.
How many members will make the team and can male dancers audition?
This number is based upon how many candidates audition, the talent level, and is up to the discretion
of the coaches and band director each season. We anticipate taking around 20 members this year and
are a coed team.
What styles do we perform in?
We perform jazz, hip hop and pom styles at Football and Basketball games.
When are practices?
During the 2024-2025 season, we had practices on Tuesday’s, 5:00-6:30pm, Thursday’s, 3:30
4:50pm, and Friday’s, 4:00-5:20pm. If selected for the competition team, we also have additional
Saturday morning practices. These practice times are TBD. We anticipate the same times for the
2025-2026 season.
How much does it cost to participate as a member of the Dance Team?
The University of Maine Dance Team explores and pursues as many fundraising opportunities as
possible, but often these events do not cover all expenses. This list is not set in stone but does serve
as a good estimator of costs for the year as a team member.
- Expenses Covered by Fundraising and/or Team Members
- NDA Camp: $410 cost of camp + transportation
- NDA National Collegiate Competition in Daytona Beach: We estimate between $1500
$2500 per team member but we won’t have specific totals until we’re closer to the
competition.- Our goal is to offset costs for costumes, national travel, choreographers, and all
that is needed to operate at an elite level with fundraising efforts completed
throughout the season.
- Our goal is to offset costs for costumes, national travel, choreographers, and all
- Expenses Covered by Team Members
- Team Apparel (below costs are estimates)
- Jazz Shoes – $30-40
- Sneakers – $90-125
- Earrings – $5
- Hairpiece – $5
- Tights – $25
- Team Jacket – $100
- Backpack – $100
- Team Apparel (below costs are estimates)
- Basic uniforms are provided (uniform top, pants, and poms).
Do we practice in the summer?
No, we do not have weekly scheduled practices, however all members are required to attend the
NDA Camp, August 3rd-5th, 2025 at Bryant University, and the Black Bear Marching Band’s Band
Camp, one week prior to school beginning. Members may be excused from the NDA camp, if
extenuating circumstances prevent you from being available, but we must be notified as soon as our
2025-2026 team is selected of any conflicts.
All members must attend our weeklong Band Camp, and no excusals will be issued. Band Camp is a
very strenuous week, and it is expected that all members will continue their dance training
throughout the summer. We learn 90% of all routines for the season during this one-week camp, and
members should be ready to handle this level of activity.
What are the general expectations if I make the team?
Be present at all practices and performances. Serve as a representative of the University of Maine by appearing at athletic events, charitable events, and University events while upholding a positive image of the University of Maine, the University of Maine Marching Band and the University of Maine Dance Team. Participate in fundraising events for the Dance Team. Be a part of the Dance Team family and create once in a lifetime memories and friendships that will last forever.