What does it truly mean to be a “Dancer”? Is it defined by paid performances and spotlight stages, or is it something more intrinsic? Does technical prowess dictate who earns the capital “D” title? And once you claim that identity, is it yours indefinitely, or can it fade with time away from the barre?
For many, dance isn’t just an activity; it’s woven into the fabric of their being. Imagine dedicating years to honing your craft, like the author of the original piece who spent 18 years immersed in training and performance before stepping away to pursue other paths. Even a decade later, the question of whether they can still call themselves a dancer lingers – a testament to the enduring nature of Dance Identity.
So much of life can be structured around dance that the very concept of self becomes intertwined with being a dancer. After graduating college with a dance degree, the author transitioned to arts administration, maintaining a sporadic connection to the studio through occasional drop-in classes in New York City. But is this enough to maintain that dance identity? Where is the line? When does the Dancer title become past tense? Is it when dance tights are swapped for everyday leggings, or when the body can no longer execute the demanding feats of technical dance?
Redefining “Dancer”: More Than Just Technique and Titles
When considering personal identity, for those with a dance background, it’s almost impossible to separate the two. The ingrained knowledge of studio etiquette, the muscle memory of ballet barre, the ability to execute a Graham floor warm-up from years past – these are all deeply embedded. Confidence on the dance floor, whether at a wedding or a fitness class, stems from this foundation. Even in professional settings, the “dancer’s perspective” is often sought after, highlighting the unique skills and insights cultivated through dance. Yet, the question persists: “Am I still qualified to answer that call?” The common preface, “Well, I used to be a dancer,” reveals the uncertainty many feel.
The skills honed through dance extend far beyond the studio walls. As the author recounts from a job interview at Marymount Manhattan College, the dean questioned the value of hiring a dance major. The response, a powerful list of attributes, underscores the transferable skills dancers possess: exceptional time management, creativity combined with pragmatism, collaborative spirit, adaptability, multitasking proficiency, and unparalleled commitment. These qualities, forged in the demanding world of dance, are invaluable assets in any career and in life itself. They are integral components of a dancer’s identity, shaping how they approach the world.
The Ebb and Flow: Navigating a Lifelong Relationship with Dance
Life’s journey often leads dancers through periods of intense involvement and necessary pauses. Following college, the author initially felt the need for a break, questioning their own ability and justifying a temporary departure from formal training. However, this hiatus ironically amplified feelings of inadequacy. The realization soon dawned that returning to the studio after a break, facing the perceived decline in skill, can be more daunting than pushing through initial feelings of inadequacy. This highlights the emotional connection dancers have with their craft and the vulnerability associated with maintaining their dance identity.
A job at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the author’s dream company, presented an opportunity to reignite their dance passion with free classes. Yet, instead of returning to familiar disciplines like Horton or ballet, Zumba and West African dance became the focus. While enjoying the West African classes, a sense of diminished foundational strength emerged, creating a struggle to keep up. This led to a further shift towards Zumba and Pilates, highlighting how the dance identity can evolve and adapt based on changing circumstances and physical capabilities. Even with access to desired dance forms, the journey back to a previous level of training is not always straightforward.
Later, a Graham-based class at The Juilliard School in Switzerland sparked a profound reconnection. The unconventional setting – a gym without mirrors, a class with younger students – fostered a sense of freedom, free from self-judgment and external pressures. This experience was transformative, reigniting the realization that technique and passion were still present, deeply rooted. “I am a dancer,” the author declared, a powerful affirmation of their enduring dance identity. This moment underscores the idea that the dancer within can be reawakened, even after periods of dormancy.
A commitment to re-engage with dance followed, only to be interrupted by a bicycle accident and subsequent knee and ankle sprain. After months of recovery, clearance to dance finally arrived, coinciding with an invigorating Graham class just days before a global shutdown in March 2020. Despite the joy of rediscovering dance, the studio doors closed again, leaving countless dancers in a state of forced hiatus.
Dance Etched in Our Identity: An Inseparable Part of Who We Are
Despite time away from formal training, the core essence of being a dancer remains. The technique, artistry, discipline, and unwavering passion cultivated through years of dedication are not easily erased. Perhaps the dance identity is indeed permanent. Once dance becomes ingrained, it resides within, shaping movement, perception, and approach to life.
Dance physically etches itself into our very being. Dancers possess an unparalleled awareness of their bodies. They share a unique, non-verbal language of movement. They have cultivated deep focus, an innate understanding of rhythm, and a constant craving for physical expression. Body alignment becomes second nature. The lessons learned through the rigors and rewards of dance training become life lessons.
The defining characteristics of a dancer, developed through dedicated training, transcend the studio. They become integral to who we are, long after formal training may cease. The dance identity is not a title earned and potentially lost, but rather a fundamental aspect of self, a lifelong imprint.
Conclusion: Embracing Your Dance Identity, Always
So, are you always a dancer? The resounding answer seems to be yes. Dance identity is not contingent on current performance level or professional engagement. It is about the ingrained skills, the embodied knowledge, the enduring passion, and the unique perspective on the world that dance instills. Embrace your dance identity, regardless of where life’s path may lead. It is a part of you, forever.
