Dance competitions have transformed dramatically over the years. From small, local events to large national conventions, the landscape of competitive dance is constantly evolving. For young dancers, these events can be a powerful experience, filled with learning and growth. However, it’s crucial for educators and parents to guide dancers in understanding what true success really means in this demanding world. The focus should extend far beyond the color of the ribbons and trophies awarded.
In the early days of dance competitions, the atmosphere was markedly different. Picture a single annual event, run by a local family, where participants arrived with homemade costumes and dreams as big as the stage. The awards were simple: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place trophies, and participation ribbons for everyone else. Winning was exciting, but even without a win, the experience itself brought smiles and a sense of accomplishment.
Fast forward to today, and the scale and intensity have escalated. Attending a convention like Nuvo Dance Convention reveals a new level of competition. These events draw in some of the most talented dancers nationwide, creating a highly competitive environment. For dancers accustomed to regional competitions and consistent top placements, conventions present a different challenge, one where the judging and the recognition can feel less predictable.
The scoring system in dance competitions, often described in terms of “bronze, silver, and gold,” can be misleading. While technically a tiered system, the reality is that “bronze” is rarely seen, and “silver” is not much more common. Many competitions predominantly award “gold” and higher accolades, sometimes diluting the significance of these achievements. For dancers used to consistently achieving “gold” or higher, receiving a “silver” can be a surprising and potentially disheartening experience.
Witnessing a recent awards ceremony at a major convention brought this into sharp focus. The repeated announcement of “silver” awards sparked a moment of concern. The immediate thought was how dancers, especially those accustomed to higher placements, might react to receiving silver. Would it diminish their self-belief? This moment highlighted a critical realization: the color of the award is secondary to the dancer’s internal perception of their performance and worth.
The true concern shifted from the award itself to the potential impact on the dancers’ self-confidence. It became clear that external validation should not dictate their self-worth. As adults guiding these young dancers, our role is paramount. Their perception of their achievement is heavily influenced by our reaction. If we genuinely convey pride and appreciation for their effort and artistry, regardless of the award, they will thrive. This mirrors the simple joy of receiving a participation ribbon decades ago – the value came from the supportive embrace and encouragement, not the medal itself.
Ultimately, the dancers in question achieved a gold level placement. However, in a climate where “gold” can feel commonplace, its significance can be diminished. The real reward was the dancer’s own words: “we are really proud of ourselves for this.” This self-recognition, this internal pride in their hard work and performance, is the most valuable takeaway.
Children are perceptive. They understand the nuances of competition, recognize exceptional talent, and know when an achievement truly signifies something meaningful. It’s time to give young dancers more credit for their understanding and resilience. Let’s cultivate humility and admiration for fellow dancers, even those who score higher. Let’s redefine “gold” to represent genuine accomplishment, hard work, and personal best, rather than just a comparative ranking. By shifting the focus from external validation to internal satisfaction and growth, we can foster a healthier and more rewarding competitive dance environment. Let’s help dancers find pride and value in their journey, regardless of the name we give to their achievements on stage.
