A Guide to Your Shoes

You have to wear shoes, thats a given. There aren't many shows you can be barefoot. And it's never exactly safe to be barefoot on stage. Or backstage. Or in a theater. So here's a quick guide to the many shoe options.
Reminder, always check in with your director and costume department for the required shoes. This is just to show the options.


WOMENS CHARACTER SHOES
These are the basic of the basic when it comes to shoes. They come in many colors, but te most common are usually black or tan. They vary in heel height, so always double check before purchasing. All in all, if you get good quality ones, they can last somewhere between 3-6 shows, depending on the severity of dance numbers and performing. Character shoes can also vary in styles, from the simple Mary Jane to te classic T-strap to the sultry open toe or open shank shoe.

MENS CHARACTER SHOES
Men's shoes are typically professional looking, often described as 'Oxford' styled. They come with a short heel and tie up. Similarly, character shoes can also include a tap on the ball and heel for specific shoes. Some may also include a rubber padding behind the ball tap to insure a sturdy footing and grip.

JAZZ SHOES
Jazz shoes are very flexible shoes that can be slip-on or tied up, depending on style. Usually, these shoes are best to be worn during choreography before wearing the actual shoe that will be used on stage. These are the best bet when it come to a rehearsal shoe that is durable and easy.

DANCE BOOTS
For a more traditional show, the shoe may have to be taller. Lace up Dane boots are similar to men's character shoes, but with a taller heel for ladies, and usually come up to the calf.

SNEAKERS
The best place to find sneakers in a theater is when the show is high performance, with lots of running around. Eventually, an actual stage shoe will take the place of the sneaker.

TECH SHOES
All black is the most common rule for a techies shoe, and should always be a sneaker. Depending in the theatre, people who move set pieces might have a costume that goes with the show, so more of a character shoe is needed.

DESIGNER BRAND
More recently, brand shoes such as Converse, Keds, or TOMs have come quite popular for stage shoes. These shoes are best for children's shows, or more current shoes, for the modern day person. This comes down to the directors vision and interpretation of the show.

Just to stress it again, always always check and double check to make your shoe is correct for the show. Even the color or heel height can make a big differnece to the appearance on stage.

As always, leave comments below and make sure to look at all the other posts!