Hair is perfect. Outfit is
glitzy. Face is caked on with makeup. Dance ability….lacking. Unfortunately,
that is the reality of the professional dance world, especially when it comes
to professional sport teams. More often than not, the first cut in a
professional dance audition is based on the physical appearance of the dancer.
A flaw, no matter how small, can result in the elimination of a dancer without
her dancing ability considered.
According to a NBA dancer
for the Cleveland Cavaliers, they were under extreme scrutiny for any
physical change, like a few extra pounds. Oliver conducted a study that showed 15
percent of the dancers surveyed hated their body because of dance. As a result,
eating disorders and unhealthy “quick fixes” spread throughout the dance
community like wild fire from dancer to dancer in order to ensure they maintain
the appearance expected. The uniforms are small, leading to the emphasis on the
body. A study done by Price and Pettijohn found that negative body image among
dancers were common because of the attire, also leading to the eating disorders
and added pressure of perfection. Many times, the contract that is signed at
the end of the audition process states that the dancer can be released if a
change in appearance occurs.
The question is, should dance
teams possibly sacrifice ability for appearance. You can make a girl (who can
dance) prettier with the professional stylists flocking around these teams.
However, you cannot always successfully make a pretty girl into a dancer.
Sources
Oliver , W.
(2008). Body image in the dance class. Journal
of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (JOPERD), 79(5), 18-25.
Retrieved from http://eds.b.ebscohost.com
Price, Brena R.;
Pettijohn II, Terry F. (2006). Social
Behavior & Personality: An International Journal, 34 (8), 991-998.
Retrieved from http://eds.b.ebscohost.com
The world of dance can be a cruel one, and I think this is a problem that people know exists. However, I don't think people realize just how harsh the judgement is, or they simply don't see it as their problem, which is sad. With so many dancers gaining negative body images from dancing, I think it would be interesting to know why they want to continue dancing. If dance makes you see yourself in a negative way, why would you want to keep doing it?
ReplyDeleteI agree with Dr. J, the dance world is a cruel one, body self image is sometimes lacking because of the pressures. I like the picture you chose, it makes a statement. I can literally count the ribs of the girl in the front center and the one behind of her, but I bet she still has a complex about her weight. Writing about the image and getting it out that the dance world can be more sex appeal and actual talent in certain fields is a good way to let the younger generation know what they are getting themselves into and how they could change it.
ReplyDeleteMany dancers dance because dancing is their love. Ask any dancer and they will tell you that when the music comes all the pain and stress melts away to nothing. Many dancers will tell you that performing in front of a crowd is worth the criticism they receive.
ReplyDelete