Dance Competitions

When asking “what do you think of Dance Competitions?” you will get a mixed set of answers. Some find dance competitions a good way for students to compare their abilities against their peers. While some believe the “art” of dance is lost by commercializing it. I have my own set of beliefs and values.

First off let’s remember dance is an art form and not a sport. First place does not mean you crossed the finish line before the others or you lifted the heaviest weight. It’s a subjective choice done by one or two judges who are to consider ones technical abilities, artistry, stage presences and overall appeal (enter in their personal preferences). It can get tricky as it’s only that person’s opinion for that particular dance for that particular day. Often you will get different results when attending numerous festivals with the same choreography or dancers.

So what is the purpose of Dance Competitions or Festivals? Is it about creating higher level dancers? Is it about celebrating the art form, by joining together and appreciating each other regardless of who placed 1st? I would hope for the latter.

As a teacher, choreographer, and mentor I have always emphasized that the journey is the most important thing. Be aware that your actions and reactions show the character of not only the dancer, but of the studio they represent and their mentors.

Over the decades, I have had, and have, the honour of working with wonderful collaborators and colleges who feel as I do. I make it my mission to mentor the students to value integrity, and to remember we are all people first. As such we should acknowledge the efforts and abilities of all. Don’t get me wrong, winning 1st place is nice and gives you a high… for about 5minutes. What does last is the votes of encouragement and feeling of camaraderie with ones peers. Perhaps you may think, yes but there are some dancers who are technically stronger or have more stage presence. That’s why we have 1st, 2nd, 3rd placements so that we can acknowledge them for that.

Where I have felt surprised, and yes disappointed, has been in the actions and reactions from the fellow dancers, studio owners and parents. Can we not celebrate each other no matter what the outcome? I know I am not alone in this feeling/belief in regards to dance competitions as I have met some wonderful people there.

I’m saying this having been in both positions, one where my dancers were not the strongest, and other times when they were en par. Yet I could always be proud of them as they were always friendly and openly complimentary of the other dancers.

So as we head out to festivals let’s try to remember we are not just creating the next “dancer of the year” but the next “human being of the future”.