There’s a common opinion that only people with a particular appearance, body type or ability can dance or be a dancer, when this isn’t true. So, why this is a common opinion? Where are we seeing change to inspire a bigger range of people to dance? 

When we think of dancers, particularly ballerinas, our minds picture a group of people all with the same particular body type, often slim, muscular, petite, and in some cases this is true in professional dance, but there has definitely been a change in the diversity of dancers and we’re starting to see a much more inclusive environment. It’s important to bear in mind that a professional dancers job consists of full-time physical training, and I can say first hand that even a few hours of dancing a week is physically demanding, therefore some dancers will claim that your body will look like the traditional dancer body type no matter what, which definitely isn’t completely true. Although this plays a big part in their physique, it simply cannot be true for everyone, as every individuals body works differently and each of our body shapes are different, even if we all did the same exercise and had the same diet, we would all still be different shapes.  

There is no way of hiding that there’s still room for mindset growth in the industry, however change is happening. When going to see a professional performance where dancers are so diverse it’s such breath of fresh air and always much more inspiring to see a group of people who are equally talented and successful but all with different appearances. This is a change that I’m noticing more and more, which is great news, and each time sticks in my mind as such a positive image of dance and has often been a big source of motivation to continue dance. By studying dance I’m getting to see the ever-growing list of opportunities available for people with a disability, the older generation and other generally inclusive dance groups, as well as seeing the professional dance world become diverse in all aspects. This is the image of dance everyone should be seeing, much before any negativity that may exist within it still. 

In 2014, Channel 4 came out with a series called “Big Ballet” which followed 18 amateur plus-sized dancers as they prepared for 20 weekends to perform Swan Lake. The show caused some controversy amongst the performing arts community, however it called out the industry for not usually allowing plus-sized folks to perform professional ballet, and asked the question, why not? People of all body types, sizes, shapes, and colours can perform all types of dance. Although this show had the usual drama and cheesy reality TV moments, it proved a very important point – the traditional, and quite frankly old-fashioned, ideas of the ideal aesthetic of ballet are unnecessary. It is the perfect example of why none of us should hold back and that beauty and art can be found anywhere and in any form. There has definitely been even more change since programmes like this and it is the kind of thing that inspires so many and would be great to see more of.

I believe in spreading body positivity in all parts of life, and by more of us not being afraid of what’s deemed to be the ‘right appearance’ or ‘perfect body” for any activity we wish to take part in will increase diversity and inspire more people to just go for it and take part in whatever they wish in the future. I chose dance to talk about in particular as it’s the activity I’m passionate about and want to encourage others to have a go at, also as it’s particularly renowned for being narrow minded about appearance, which is, as I’ve explained, not so much the case in modern day, but all of this goes for any activity. So, my advice, just give it a go, no matter what your reason for wanting to do it, whether it’s for fun, fitness or to make your way to be a professional. All bodies, no matter the size, shape, length, colour, or ability, is worthy. Body positivity in dance education and education as a whole is something that really needs to be discussed. There are some bad traditions that some communities cling to, but we can be the ones to continue change that even further. 

There are so many ways you can start getting involved in dance, even in lockdown, like live online classes, pre-filmed online material or just making your own routine or copying your favourite music video. You can find more details on all of these ways to get involved in lockdown in my previous blog. There’s no better time to start as just being on your own in your own space and giving something a try is a great way to build your confidence and just explore movement without the worry of others. Anyone can dance, let’s prove it.