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La Bohème Solstice 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
💃 Do I need dance experience to join?
No experience is necessary.
La Bohème welcomes dancers of all backgrounds, bodies, ages, and experience levels. What matters most is your commitment, openness, and willingness to move and grow as part of a group.
🌈 Who is La Bohème for?
La Bohème is for anyone who feels called to:
Move their body in a creative, expressive way
Be part of a supportive and inclusive dance community
Commit to a group performance experience
Perform in the Santa Barbara Solstice Parade
All are welcome.
📅 When is the Solstice Parade?
The Solstice Parade is Saturday, June 20, starting at noon.
Please plan to devote your entire day to the parade experience.
🩰 When and where are rehearsals?
Rehearsals begin Monday, April 27.
Mondays & Wednesdays | 7:00–8:30 PM
📍 State Street Ballet Academy
2285 Las Positas RoadRehearsals continue weekly through the parade
Additional details:
No rehearsal on Monday of Memorial Day
Possible June rehearsals at Carrillo Rec Center and outdoor parade-practice locations (details TBA)
🚨 Are all rehearsals mandatory?
Yes.
La Bohème is a committed performance group, and consistent attendance is essential for safety, confidence, and group cohesion.
Dancers are encouraged to miss no more than two rehearsals
Attendance during the final two weeks is especially important
If you must miss a rehearsal, please notify a La Bohème Board Member at least 24 hours in advance (Karen, Susie, or Judith — not Teresa)
🥁 Is there a mandatory parade rehearsal?
Yes.
There is one mandatory parading rehearsal:
🗓 Saturday, June 13
⏱ Multi-hour rehearsal (approximately 3–4 hours)
📍 Time and location TBA
💸 How much does it cost to participate?
Registration Fee: $595
This includes:
High-quality costume packet
All mandatory rehearsals
Optional/extra rehearsals (times TBA)
Parade-day hydration
Post-parade La Bohème picnic
Studio rentals, float construction, and production costs
❗ What is NOT included in the registration fee?
Base costume items (such as shoes, bras, etc.)
$20 Solstice Festival participation fee
(Paid directly to the Santa Barbara Solstice Festival and required for all parade performers)
🎉 Are there discounts available?
Yes!
Early Bird Discount: $25 off if paid in full by April 1
Bring-Your-Friends Discount:
Receive $50 off for each new dancer you recruit who has never danced with La Bohème before
(Discounts refunded after referred dancers pay in full)Need-based partial scholarships are available in limited numbers
👉 More scholarship information available here.
👗 Do I have to make my own costume?
Yes—but don’t worry!
Costume packets are included in your registration
You’ll receive clear instructions, videos, and support
Sewing is minimal and beginner-friendly
Group costume-making parties make it fun and social 🎉
Foundation items purchased separately (details provided later):
Bra, shorts, corset, shoes, fishnets
🔒 Can I try a class before committing?
No.
To protect the integrity and safety of the group, we do not allow drop-ins or trial classes.
All dancers must:
Be fully registered
Have paid in full
Complete all required paperwork
before the first rehearsal
⏳ Can I join late?
No late joiners are allowed.
All registration, payment, and paperwork must be completed before the first rehearsal on April 27.
📝 What paperwork is required?
Before attending your first rehearsal, you must complete:
La Bohème Solstice Registration Form & Contract - LINK
Solstice Parade Registration Form
Submit the $20 Solstice participation fee
🌊 Where can I learn more about the Solstice Festival?
For full details about the event itself, visit the Santa Barbara Solstice Festival website.
✨ Still have questions?
We’re happy to help.
Please reach out to a La Bohème Board Member for additional questions or clarification.
🌈 Ready to Join?
If this speaks to you, trust the call.
⬇️ Hit this link to pay ⬇️
✨ We can’t wait to dance the Wave with you. ✨