Preparation

• Often, the difference between girls who make a professional dance team and those who don't is their individual level of preparation. Some girls arrive at auditions thinking that their dance experience will be enough to earn them a place on the team; this is a mistake. Before auditioning for the Raptors Dance Pak, do some research on the team as you will most likely be tested on your knowledge during the audition. In certain years, the Raptors offer preparatory workshops before the audition. Information can be found on the Raptor's website.
  
  

Dance Experience

• The most important thing you can do before auditioning for the Raptors Dance Pak is to intensify your dance training in the year preceding your audition. The Raptors Dance Pak primarily perform choreography that includes a mix of jazz, street-jazz and hip-hop dance styles; if you do not have a near-professional level of competency in any of these styles head to your local dance studio and learn as much as possible. At the audition, judges will note how quickly you pick up choreography, so the more classes you take, the more well-versed you will be in picking up new routines.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• In order to successfully pass any dance audition, physical fitness is imperative. For most professional sports team dancers, the your general appearance is also taken into consideration. This does not necessarily mean that how you look is the most important part of your audition, but to successfully pass an audition for the Raptors Dance Pak you must show up to the audition "game ready" -- in top physical shape, with your hair styled and makeup applied as if it were a performance.
  
  

At the Audition

• While the pre-audition preparation phase may be important, your attitude on audition day can make or break your chances of becoming a member of the Raptors Dance Pak. First, remember to smile; judges want to see charisma and personality throughout the day, not just during your individual audition. Try to adhere as closely to the style of the choreography you have been taught; judges don't want to see your own style, they want to see how well you learn the team's style. If asked an interview question, speak clearly and enthusiastically while looking judges directly in the eyes. Most importantly, have fun!