K.W.
Hi, C.!
I can understand why, especially with two girls, this would be a bit overwhelming at the outset. Uniforms, dance shoes, several pairs of hose each, choreography camps, rehearsals, competitions at which they'll each need at least another $30 for food at the concessions plus programs, buttons that light up, and paying for people's choice award votes! And that's if you don't pay for a group picture! A certain color scrunchy for in their hair and curling irons, make up and hair spray to take on the road. I could go on!
However, I would like you to look forward to the SECOND YEAR! All you need is the hose and hair spray. Everything is already done and paid for, and you still have years of knowing that your girls are at school, with caring and committed adults, getting GREAT physical exercise, team-building skills, musical education, and that they are literally too busy or too tired to get into much trouble! They are learning to respect the property of the schools they visit and the buses they ride on, respect the feelings of the other choirs as they pass them in the hall, and respect the opinion of the judges even if they don't agree.
If you can't already tell, I play for a show choir. =) I agree with the other commenter that I am almost moved to tears when I see the kids put together their show for the first time. If your girls are serious and plan to stick with this, please try to look past the initial expense and make an overall decision. I guarantee you'll like watching the show when your girls are in the front row!