How Online Dance Classes Can Bring Some New Realizations

Online dance classes. It’s an interesting relationship we’ve got going.  If you’re not in love with virtual classes, it’s ok! You’re not alone. However, there is a conversation to be had if this relationship is going to continue.

So, let’s just get down to it.  Online dance classes aren’t ideal.  If, for all these years, these kids have been sweating together in the same room, staring at themselves in the mirrors desperately trying to be in unison with the person next to them, relying on their teacher to physically place their bodies in exactly the right spot all for the sake of having the same goal...all of a sudden dancing in your living room with your little brother and parents watching from the kitchen just feels odd.  What happened to all those motivating elements that were pushing and driving you to become more than you thought you could be and do superhero dance moves on command as your teacher shouted out what’s next at the top of her lungs?   Well, that doesn’t exist in online learning.  So, we adapt. For now, at least.  

“Good news is, there are many other things we are gaining that we’ve never had before.”

As a dancer, I can relate to all that stuff I just mentioned.  As a teacher, I can relate to a long list of challenges there as well.  And as a parent, I am immersed in almost this continual, subconscious state of empathy we have as we realize our child may not be getting the same experience they once had.  But, again, let’s take a moment to look at the silver lining. I know everyone is pretty sick of that phrase at this point, but that’s what it is.  This is what I see happening for dancers, and how we can possibly shift our outlook for a moment as parents to see the positive side of this experience.

Escapism

“Dancing on your own is a form of escapism, and it is also forcing you to be present with your mind and body and spirituality.”

If you're a parent of dancer you know this for sure...your dancer can literally transform into what feels like another human being when she/he dances!  There are things that come out of them that only occur when they’re dancing.  And it’s so special.  As parents we see it first, before anyone, because we know our child in and out.  This form of escapism is something they rely on to the very core of their being.  They get to escape from school, from daily responsibilities, from any stress they might be feeling...and they enter a world of their own. Their body + the music.  That’s true when you’re even dancing with a large group...but even more so when you’re doing it alone.  It becomes impossible to ignore your inner thoughts and feelings as you move with the music, and no one else is watching. It’s a relatively new experience, especially for younger dancers, and I think we should absolutely embrace this for our kids.  It can help them become so aware of themselves, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. 

Self-Love

This time can be about self-love. Self-care. In dance we are together, and rely on each other.  Yes, for lifts, for partner work, for reactive movement...dance is a story we’re telling together.  On a physical level it’s like you’re working out the hardest you’ve ever worked out, and you feel like you want to either throw up or die, there is always someone there to keep you going. To pull you through without quitting.  To motivate you and tell you you’re not dying. When we’re dancing alone, we now have to now focus on ourselves, and feed ourselves that same experience. That takes massive focus, self-awareness, work ethic and, most importantly, execution that doesn’t require anyone cheering you on. It’s all on you.  And that, in my opinion, is some of the strongest self-love you can give yourself.

Vulnerability

I teach a live class every week, and there are people dancing in my class that I haven’t danced with in over 10 years! Former students, former instructors, friends...it’s amazing!  I never thought we’d all have the chance to dance together again!   There are also brand new people that have never danced before who now have the opportunity to learn. Walking into a dance studio can be quite intimidating...I don’t care if you’re a seasoned professional, it just will always feel that way.  With online classes, there are kids and adults all over the world that are able to take a class without feeling that intimidation.  They’re allowing themselves to become vulnerable.

“Dance is one of the most vulnerable things you can do.  It takes courage, no matter what.  And people are getting that opportunity with online classes.”

Freedom

Dance teaches freedom.  It can unlock your insecurities, sure.  But isn’t recognizing your own insecurities the first step in growth?  Even as kids?  As dancers we’re used to people watching us perform. So, in this case, even if no one is watching, we get to move and feel all of that for ourselves...maybe for the first time ever dancers are allowing this to be just for themselves.  And maybe we needed that balance in our dance journey.  No matter if you’re a dancer or a parent of a dancer, there lies expectations for everyone.  Perfection. Recognition. The ability to compete with the world.  Staying current. Staying fit. Staying relevant.  The list goes on.  I think freedom may be one of the greatest gifts from all of this. 

So, although dancers genuinely miss the connection with their friends and teachers (which is truly a very difficult part of all this for them), I believe we have the opportunity to take this small lapse of time and pull out the good stuff. As parents, we can’t let all this go by without helping our kids recognize the good and the growth they can find for themselves. It may force some unexpected, healthy conversations at the dinner table. I personally know so many dance mamas and dads that are shining the light of this conversation over their kids. Good work. Keep going. We’re almost there. 

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

—Ferris Bueler and Diane Schneeweis