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Language in the dance class

I am beginning to start writing my Module 1 BAPP Essay and I'm discussing the language used in class by dance teachers and how this can have a detrimental effect on students body image.

It's got me thinking about all the instances where I've been subject to or witnessed unethical language during my training. Some examples that I can remember;

'Fairy elephant' when landing from jumps

'You'll give the boys a hernia lifting you' during pas de deux/ partner work classes

'your legs look bigger after the Christmas holidays' whilst being a UK clothes size 6/8

I'm sure there is plenty more shocking examples in the dance industry. Have you experienced language like this? Some may argue it's to prepare dancers for the tough reality of the dance industry or help them develop a 'thick skin'. Its common place in the industry, but why is it still continuing in this day and age? How many other industries would just brush off this kind of language?

Comments

  1. Claire McManus10 October 2022 at 09:34

    Oh Carys it is so sad that this happens. I was also made to feel extremely conscious of my weight whilst performing. I was made to loose weight for a certain contract but then told to gain weight instead!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Melody Stockwell12 October 2022 at 07:39

    unfortunately I have had many of these comments my way and it can really affect you long term as well as short term

    ReplyDelete
  3. Lewis Gardner18 October 2022 at 21:57

    Interesting topic! I’ve also been looking into something similar and it’s also reminded me of many things that have been said over the years. “I can see what you’ve had for lunch” comes to mind. The most shocking thing is just how unnecessary and blatantly openly things like this are said across a classroom/studio in-front of everyone… It’s about time it changed, don’t you think!? I definitely feel responsible for implementing change within my classroom setting.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Carys Dickens7 November 2022 at 11:36

    Such a shame we've all had similar experiences. I'm shocked by that remark Lewis and totally agree, about time for change! Hopefully our generation of dance teachers will be the change!

    ReplyDelete

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