I know they say that actions speak louder than words but if you are anything like me, those words tend to be weightier, more often than not. As a dancer, you spend most of your time under your teacher's voice and guidance, which subconsciously turns into a place you seek validation from. As a teacher, you have the power to make or break a dancer with just your words. Scary, I know...Welcome to post number 8!
Upto date, I am still affected by certain phrases that were said to me by my dance teacher when I was younger. I had just started taking professional dance classes and was put in a class with little ones who had already began their term. Occasionally, the teacher would put us on the spot and ask questions and being a beginner, I often failed. The commentary that came after that was degrading and insensitive. So on top of being one of the oldest students, which in itself was humbling, I struggled to figure out what was going on in the class, and I failed to impress my teacher. I became insecure and often doubted my ability to dance. It wasn't how I imagined my dance journey would begin.
Getting into the teaching practice myself, I have had to intentionally be aware of the things I say to my students. There's so many other things involved with being a teacher other than just teaching. I have to be aware that not everyone is on the same level, understand that while some are fast learners others take some more time, and remember that the goal at the end of the day is to have a great time, as well as learn a new thing or two, of course.
There is a narrative that dancers have to have thick skin to make it in the dance world. Even in the dance shows we watch, you can see the mental and emotional toil that comes with being a dancer. I believe that it doesn't have to be like that. You can correct without humiliating, enforce discipline without shaming, and work strictly without being harsh. I have had the privilege of working in institutions where the students can just be students without any negative external pressures from the teachers. It warms my heart to see dancers being nurtured in a healthy way. Dancer friend, you do NOT have to go through traumatic experiences to have a successful career. Fellow teachers, be mindful, be encouraging, and be a source of light and hope.
Keep creating & sharing!
~Your dancer friend
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