When it comes to the day of the show, here are a few auxiliary things that I can’t leave the crib without. I mean, these items are SOO vital, that if I don’t have them…my whole game plan could be thrown off.

1. Baby Powder – Ok, I don’t care what anybody says — This is ESSENTIAL! Don’t really feel like I need to explain why, just know that I move better and more freely when I have it. Trust, you will too.

2. Tape (Electric) – This is the all-purpose lifesaver. Whether you have costume malfunctions, or you’re just worried about your shoelaces coming undone – Electric tape (preferably black) can get the job done. (If you really wanna be slick, get colored tape and use it to mark the stage for key formations in your routine)

3. Thumb tacks – In the bottom of your boots, they can make A WORLD of difference. Believe it or not, they add a distinct sound to each step or slide.

4. Trail Mix – See, my teammate turned me on to this (shouts to The Talented Tenth). This is the closest you can get to a pre-show energy booster that doesn’t taste like bark. I prefer Planters Nut & Chocolate Trail Mix, but you may enjoy any combination in their variety.

5. iPod (Playin Who Run It, Real Big, and Hood Hop, in any order) – Never leave home without it. Listen to whatever puts you in the zone, from the time you leave the door to the time you leave the locker room.

6. Insoles (Dr. Scholls) – Ain’t nothing like a comfortable pair of boots. I have to feel like my foot is chillin on clouds, cuz I know I’m bringin the thunder when on stage. Don’t feel like buying insoles out the store? Just grab the ones out of your most comfortable sneakers.

*BONUS* An EXTRA costume - Self-explanatory. You never know what is gonna happen, or who is gonna lose, leave, forget, break, or steal part(s) of your (or their) costume(s). BE PREPARED, cuz Murphy’s Law loves step shows like Reggie Bush loves white women.

What’s in your Survival Kit? And, what would you add to mine?