Dance Competition FAQs

Where do I enter the facility

Where can I park?

There is ample free parking available for short-term parking near the venue. Please visit our Parking Information Page for more information.
Large trucks and trailers may park temporarily in designated "Bus and Truck" parking on Pillsbury Avenue.
Under NO circumstances is parking available in the roundabout area off Traveler's Trail. This is a Pickup & Drop Off area ONLY.
Please be respectful of neighboring businesses and do not park in their lots or spaces signed for specific businesses.

I'm coming to see the competition. Where can I sit?

There is ample seating in Masquerade Dance Theater to watch the competition. All seating is general admission. We ask that you do not sit or stand in the doorways or aisles. We also ask that when the theater is busy, please do not leave items to save seats.

Can I bring food or beverages?

Outside food and beverages are permitted in the Ames Center at the discretion of facility staff.
We ask that you do not bring large catered food orders inside. You're welcome to enjoy this outside in the nearby Nicollet Commons Park.

Is there food and beverages available for purchase at the competition?

Yes! We have a concessions stand located in the lower lobby that sells made-to-order food items, soda, coffee, and more. Hours are 8:00a—8:00p. Hours to change based on the competition schedule.

Can I bring signs/banners/posters?

We encourage you to show your studio sprit during competitions! We ask that you do not adhere signs to any walls, doorways, or other surfaces. The Ames Center reserves the right to remove any signs at any time.

Where can I bring my props for the competition?

All props are to be loaded in through the loading dock only. Only props utilized that day may be loaded in. Any props left at the end of the day will be removed from the facility.

What do I need to know about dressing space?

The availability of dressing space is at the sole discretion of the Dance Competition promoters.
Dressing space may or may not be assigned by studio. If dressing space is not assigned, please ensure the space is shared as needed. No space may be formally reserved by the studio or dancers.
Personal items, props, and costumes may not be left in dressing space overnight. If items are left in the space, they will be removed and sent to lost and found.

Is there rehearsal space?

There is no dedicated rehearsal or warm up spaces within the Ames Center.
Dancers may use what space is available so long as it does not impede traffic flow and remains safe for the dancers and other patrons. If Ames Center staff ask you to disperse, please comply.

Is there a lost and found?

During an event, please ask a staff member to inquire about lost items.
After an event, please contact the Main Office at 952-895-4680 to inquire about lost items. The Ames Center assumes no responsibility for lost items at events.

What items are prohibited from the venue?

Alcohol
Use of e-cigarettes or cigarettes indoors (smoking is permitted outdoors)
Animals, with the exception of well-trained, leashed (or harnessed) service animals
Coolers
Balloons

Code of Conduct

Dance competitions are high energy and fun! We encourage everyone to help us keep dancers and guests safe at all times.
Guests engaging in disorderly conduct will be ejected from the venue. Disorderly conduct or disturbances include, but are not limited to:
- Standing on chairs
- Destruction of Ames Center property
- Willfully and maliciously disturbing another guest, participant, or employee
- Knowingly breaking Ames Center building policies, including possession of prohibited items

If you have additional questions please contact 952-895-4685 or [email protected].

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