Frustrations, Empathy, Solutions

I recently came across a post online where a dancer expressed frustration about the low turnout of Kenyan dancers at various dance workshops and events. This wasn't the first time I was hearing such complaints that came with scrutiny and questioning of the support, or lack thereof, of those that didn't show up. Funnily enough, I hadn't attended the particular events in question and I felt personally attacked. As I was getting ready to respond defensively, it dawned on me that I had been in a similar situation before.

I remember attending a festival that had free dance workshops all week long, and the dance rooms had barely 10 people on a good day. I wondered why more dancers didn't participate. It couldn't have been a financial issue since it was already covered. It couldn't have been a matter of location, as it was conveniently located centrally. Timing wasn't the problem either, given that the workshops ran all day, allowing the dancers to join at their convenience, and it certainly wasn't the dance styles being taught, as dancers typically enjoy variety, and even if they didn't enjoy a particular style, the only thing they would have 'lost' was time. I didn't understand why this was the case and it got me thinking...

Having experienced both scenarios, I was able to empathize with the dancers and the organisers and so, I took a step back and adopted a third perspective. As a dancer, I don't want to feel judged or shamed for not attending a dance event. As a dance instructor, I don't want dancers feeling guilt-tripped into participating in my workshops. Instead, I want dancers to show up willingly whether or not it's a free session, and feel inspired enough to come back again. So how do we achieve this balance?

For dance instructors, I believe the way forward involves continuous improvement in our craft, hosting engaging workshops, and extending warm invitations to dancers, ensuring they receive value for their time and money. As for the dancers, I believe it means actively participating in workshops, fostering a supportive dance community, and understanding that life circumstances can sometimes hinder our attendance. Instead of scrutinizing and shaming those who can't always make it, a shift towards supporting and celebrating each other, regardless, will enhance our dance community as a whole. The unlearning continues, dancer friends.

Keep creating & sharing!

~your dancer friend