We can dance if you want to, but we can leave Ballet behind. Kind of.

This is a blog post, not a dissertation so I’m going to let my train of thought go on an adventure without too much editing. Expectations managed. *swish & flick*

I don’t condone the idea that ballet is the foundation of all dance. Frankly, it’s a slap in the face to the deeply rich cultures around the world that couldn’t care less about the happenings of Italy or France in the 15th Century. The overly used example of “hip hop uses the plié you learn in ballet” is wearing thin. The emphasis on grace, posture, strength, & discipline touted in Ballet is not limited to that genre alone.

What comes to mind when you think about ballet? Bun? Tutu? Twirls? 

What comes to mind when I think of ballet? Eurocentric. Body Dysmorphia. Stifling.

In my role as teacher & studio owner, I find myself frustrated. I’m frustrated that folks think that in order for their child to dance they must start with ballet. Kids come to this world ready to dance, no ballet required. It’s built into the fiber of our being. So why do I offer ballet classes? When taught with a trauma-informed approach ballet can be wonderful and open students to a level of creativity they may not have experienced yet. It’s also a battle I can win from within one dance class at a time. Come take ballet but, oh no - what’s that? You found out you ALSO love Hip Hop, Jazz, Lyrical, Musical Theater, too?! Great! We have a dance class for you.

I love dance. I understand the fondness of ballet and its deeply dance rooted history for some…but not for all. Cheers to those who are taking control of the narrative and creating safe, inclusive dance spaces for people of every shape, size, color, and ability. I am your cheerleader and forever supporter. 

In my dance home, within the studio walls that I am creating, I treat ballet as a stepping stone into the truly wonderful & eclectic world of dance. Ballet serves a purpose but it’s not the main event. 

*Nervously pushes publish but remembers she's a Gemini and it's our season. Let's do this.