With football and basketball season over, Oak Park High School’s dance team has few performances left in the semester. Throughout the school year, the OPHS dance team worked weekly on their dances for rallies, games and showcases. 

“We have practice three times a week and we put in so much work towards our dances,” freshman Katie Comprato said. 

In preparation for next year, tryouts for the 2024-2025 season will be held in the OPHS dance room on May 6. The team will hold a clinic beforehand to learn the dances and materials needed. 

This school year, OPHS added a junior varsity dance team to give students more opportunities to make the team. When there was only one team, there was a smaller number of spots available. 

Comparato shared some tips about the best ways to stand out when trying out for the team. It is crucial, according to Comparato, to come prepared while having a good and fun attitude. 

“Before going into tryouts, you need to turn in a headshot with your name on it,” Comparato said. “It is also important to come wearing shoes and clothes that are comfortable to dance in, and bring lots of water.”

How you express your personality is also one of the main things that the coaches look for when putting together the teams. Before trying out, many dancers are scared about the way they perform and how they dance. While that is important, stage presence and facial expressions while dancing are equally important. 

“Don’t stress too much about the dance moves, rather just have fun and have good facial expressions,” Comparato said. “Try your best but if you make a few mistakes the coaches will be more interested if you have good energy.” 

If you are interested in being a part of one of the two OPHS dance teams make sure to attend tryouts.