The Basic Format
ShowSort accepts data in CSV and Excel (.xlsx, .xls) formats. The rule is simple: one row per routine-performer assignment.
If a performer is in three routines, they appear on three separate rows. If a routine has twelve performers, that routine appears on twelve rows.
Here's a minimal example (with an optional header row):
| Routine Name | Performer |
|---|---|
| Dance Like Nobody's Watching | Ariana Anderson |
| Dance Like Nobody's Watching | Brooke Butler |
| Dance Like Nobody's Watching | Chloe Carpenter |
| Sing Like Nobody's Listening | Ariana Anderson |
| Sing Like Nobody's Listening | Daniel Davis |
| Live Like It's Heaven On Earth (Solo) | Frank Fisker |
The Golden Rule: Consistent Names
Performers who appear in multiple routines must have identical names in every row. ShowSort uses the name as the unique identifier — so "Emma Smith", "Emma Smith" (extra space), and "emma smith" are treated as three different people.
The same applies to routine names. A typo in one row means that routine appears to have a mystery extra performer.
Tip: If your spreadsheet came from studio management software, run a quick scan for extra spaces or inconsistent capitalization before importing.
Header Row
A single header row is optional but recommended. ShowSort will try to auto-detect whether your file has one, and you can override that during import if needed. Multiple header rows are not supported.
Importing from DanceStudio-Pro
If you use DanceStudio-Pro, you can export directly from their Recital Wizard:
- Log in and go to More → Tickets & Events
- Open or create your event, then click Recital Wizard
- Configure your act list and click 4: Generate the playbook
- Choose More Actions → Download Excel Program List — this saves a file called recital.csv
- Upload that file on the Create a Show page
Note: DanceStudio-Pro occasionally outputs non-standard CSV when names contain commas or quotes. If you see fragmented or duplicate entries, contact us and we'll help you sort it out.
ShowSort is not affiliated with DanceStudio-Pro. All respective trademarks are theirs.