| Pageant Tips 101 |
| Section 1- Formal Wear • Franticly swinging or stiffly frozen arms can be distracting. Be confident and sure not to grab a hold of your gown. • Smile big, smile often, smile natural. • Please, please, please walk to the beat of the music. Don’t make something new up. It’s your time on stage, take advantage of it! • Check the pageant guidelines for makeup rules. If you are allowed to wear makeup, keep it natural. Makeup should highlight a girl’s beautiful features. • Get familiar with different types of turns. Prepare according to stage set-up, dress, and confidence of the girl. Don’t pivot or turn too slow or quick. • If you have to be on stage for a length of time, don’t lock your knees. You could pass out. • Your escort will come get you, don’t look back in a desperate attempt to get them to come get you. • Listen to the emcee’s cues. These often tell you when to begin, turn, and leave stage. Know your contestant number! • If you are worrying about tripping, it’s more likely to happen. Key to success- right length of gown and practice, practice, practice! • Keep good posture throughout. • Focus on the judges, but don’t stare them down. Also be sure to take notice of the audience. • Don’t forget Model-T stance. Section 2- Interview • Practice before hand, but try to not be too rehearsed. • Always go in optimistic. There is nothing to be nervous about! • Smile! Be happy you are there. • Eye contact with judges shows confidence. • Know your own opinions. • Review all the information on your application and/or resume. • Try to shake hands with all of the judges. If they are busy writing, just keep ‘going.’ Some directors may tell you not to due to time restrictions. • If you don’t understand a question ask for clarification. • Try to not use one word answers. They also want to know why, just not “Yes” or “No.” • Check yourself out before you go in. (is your skirt straight, hair out of your face, are there any runners in your hose, and etc..) • Laugh a little! • A few don’ts: Chew gum Bad posture Swing legs Using slang (umm, like, and etc…) Ramble Roll eyes when considering possible answer Section 3- Introduction • Know the criteria, be sure to include everything that is necessary • Make sure that transitions are smooth. • Emphasize your name, you want the judges to remember you. • Use the allotted time, but don’t make it too long. Many times, they are to be cut down to 20 or 30 seconds. • Step up to the “X” on the stage. Let the audience be aware of you presence. • Hold the microphone correctly. Be sure not to hide your face or to hold the microphone with both hands! The other should be by your side, but not grabbing your suit. • Clear your throat before you speak. • Again, eye contact with the judges and the Model-T stance is vital. |