Show Week Survival Guide
Your essential checklist for surviving (and thriving) during show week
Show week is exciting but can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you stay organised and support your young performer through this intense but rewarding time.
The Week Before
Practical Prep
- Check all costume pieces - buttons secure, zips working, no tears or stains
- Prepare a show bag with all essentials (see packing list below)
- Confirm transport arrangements for each rehearsal and performance
- Adjust bedtimes - earlier nights mean more energy on stage
- Meal prep - simple, nutritious meals that can be eaten quickly
Emotional Prep
- Remind them: "Everyone feels nervous - that means you care"
- Practice positive self-talk together
- Talk through the schedule so there are no surprises
- Celebrate how far they have come in rehearsals
The Show Bag Essentials
Must-Haves
- [ ] Water bottle (at least 1 litre)
- [ ] Healthy snacks (banana, nuts, crackers)
- [ ] Throat sweets (non-medicated)
- [ ] Hair ties, bobby pins, headband
- [ ] Small sewing kit (needle, thread, safety pins)
- [ ] Blister plasters
- [ ] Deodorant
- [ ] Tissues
- [ ] Small towel or face wipes
Nice-to-Haves
- [ ] Spare tights/socks
- [ ] Mini torch (for backstage)
- [ ] Quiet entertainment (book, colouring)
- [ ] Lucky charm or comfort item
- [ ] Phone charger
Daily Schedule Tips
Before Leaving Home
- Ensure they have eaten a proper meal (2-3 hours before performing)
- Check costume is packed and complete
- Confirm pickup time
- Quick vocal warm-up in the car is fine!
During the Show
- Arrive early - usually 1 hour before curtain
- Let the stage manager handle any issues
- Keep phone on silent but accessible for emergencies
- Trust the production team - they have got this
After the Show
- Celebrate regardless of how it went
- Light snack ready at home
- Wind-down time before bed (screen-free if possible)
- Save detailed feedback for the next day
What NOT to Do
- Don't visit backstage unless specifically invited
- Don't give notes after a performance - let the director handle it
- Don't compare your child to other cast members
- Don't post spoilers on social media
- Don't panic if something goes wrong - shows always have hiccups
Emergency Quick Fixes
| Problem | Quick Fix | |---------|-----------| | Costume tear | Safety pins or fabric tape | | Lost hair tie | Shoelace or ribbon | | Sore throat | Warm water with honey | | Nerves | Deep breaths, positive words | | Forgotten line | "They have rehearsed this - they will remember" |
Remember
Your calm energy sets the tone. If you are relaxed and confident, your child will feel more at ease. This is meant to be fun - enjoy watching them shine!
> "Break a leg means good luck in theatre. The origin? No one really knows, but your child definitely will!"
Print this guide and tick off items as you go. You have got this, theatre parent!