DANCE IS FOR EVERYONE!

Dance is for everyone.....Absolutely Everyone! I have written a few times on technique and training, but no matter your level of commitment, dance should always come from and be in your heart. When dance comes from your heart, there is joy. When there is love and joy, there is an indescribable beauty that cannot be denied, regardless of the dancer's ability level. You should never forget why you dance, and the answer shouldn't involve a trophy.

When I say dance is for everyone, I do mean EVERYONE. The knowledge and information shared regarding technique never changes, BUT intensity, the way knowledge is shared, and amount of information given changes based the needs and desires of the dancer. Not every dancer wants to attend classes 20 hours a week, or even 8 for that matter. Some dancers only want to go to class one or two days a week. And that's ok! I firmly believe these dancers should not be short changed and not taught proper technique simply because they don't want to take more hours of class and become the more serious student. The amount of class time doesn't determine their level of importance. Some students work hard, but also have a life outside of the studio and do not want to "live there".  That is okay too, because they love to dance and need the opportunity to experience all the wonder and joy found within the art, within themselves, and within the dance studio. The class structure, the way the information in presented, and the amount of knowledge taught at one time may vary, but it's still dance and it's still the same technique! And remember, there is so much more to learn than dance in dance class. Dance teaches life lessons that make an impact and last forever such as work ethic, time management, how to work together as a team, respect for self and others, manners, confidence, integrity, discipline, commitment, accountability, responsibility, and a healthy active lifestyle. Everyone who wants to dance should have the opportunity to learn these lessons through the gift of this wonderful art form!

As teachers, we need to reach every student. We have to get into their minds and try to figure out how they think and process information. There is no greater joy than to watch a student learn and accomplish personal goals!  We have to teach each class individually and uniquely to their level and mindset. It's just like in the work force. Not everyone wants to work their way up to be a leader or the boss. Some employees do a good job and they are satisfied right where they are. If you push them too hard they become miserable and quit. If you don't push them enough, they get bored and quit. You have to find the sweet spot. Then there are some employees who are driven and have the desire to do whatever it takes to make it to the top to be the best. Just as you would give these two employees different roles, responsibilities, assignments, and work loads, you must do the same for those different types of dance students with their various desires, needs, and expectations. Not everyone wants to dance past high school, but that doesn't mean they don't love it and enjoy it as much as someone else.

Problems can arise when a dancer wants to pretend that they want to be the "I'm all in, hard core, do it or die" student when really, they don't fall into that category. That's when blaming, misery, and the loss of love can begin. When a dancer is honest with themselves about what their expectations and desires truthfully are, then they can experience the joy of dancing again. Dance is happiness. If it isn't, a dancer needs to pause and figure out where the love went and why. Once this figured out, the peace, love, and happiness will return!

There is a dance class, a dance studio, and yes, even a dance competition for everyone. If you want to take one hour a week, there is a wonderful place for you! If you want to take 20 plus hours a week, there is a place for you! It doesn't matter if you can't walk, you can still dance. There is a place for you! Disabilities, handicaps, in the word of dance these words don't exist. We are all made to dance! Dance is acceptance! Dance is still hard work for whatever your level of commitment, but dance is true acceptance! Come one! Come all!

As teachers, our first goal should be to make nice PEOPLE and not just produce dancers. We have to ability to help shape the future of our world and we shouldn't take that responsibility lightly. We should encourage every child to dance! We should also keep the love of dance alive and growing for all! Dance is such a gift and a blessing. Share it with everyone with a happy and grateful heart!

Dance hard. Dance smart.

Meredith

thecompetitiveedgebymeredith.blogspot.com

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For class, choreography, or booking information, please email: meredith@thecompetitiveedgebymeredith.com

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Photo: Kattie Hansen