Dance competitions: they’re a complex aspect of the dance world. Let me share a little secret with you – I don’t wholeheartedly love them. Now, as someone deeply embedded in dance education and coming from a studio with accolades, that might sound surprising. I acknowledge the positives; competitions offer valuable life lessons, expose dancers to diverse talent, and provide professional feedback. My students undoubtedly grow through these experiences, and I recognize the merits of participating. However, at its core, a dance competition is about ranking dancers against each other, and that inherently subjective nature is where the challenge lies. Fairness in such a comparison is simply unattainable.
I appreciate the spirit of competition, and in traditional sports, it’s often clear-cut. Rules are defined, games are played, and winners and losers are declared. Full disclosure: I was the sideline mom during my son’s football games, quietly hoping the dominant team would ease up when the score became overwhelmingly lopsided. This perhaps reveals my less-than-ferocious competitive drive. While I grasp the concept of victory and defeat in sports, the same clarity doesn’t translate to the realm of dance competitions.
Unlike sports, dance is fundamentally an art form, and declaring a definitive “winner” is inherently problematic. I’ve witnessed the same routine, performed by the same dancers in the same costumes to the same music, achieve top honors at one competition and then underperform at another. This inconsistency stems from the numerous uncontrollable variables inherent in dance competitions. A judge’s personal taste in music, another’s preference for specific dance styles like tap, or differing sensitivities to song content all contribute to a subjective evaluation process. These elements are beyond our influence.
Of course, excellent dancing is undeniable. Judges strive for objectivity and generally recognize and reward exceptional talent. Yet, most of us have experienced moments in the audience where the top placements leave us questioning. This isn’t to suggest judging errors or poor choices. It simply reflects that judges connect with art in individual ways, much like assessing paintings. Present the same set of artworks to a hundred people, and you’ll likely receive a spectrum of “best” choices.
Dance competitors, their families, and instructors often dissect every moment of each performance, seeking to understand the reasons behind wins and losses. However, the reality is that definitive answers may remain elusive, and perhaps, unnecessary. The essence of dance is to create a powerful, moving experience for the audience. If the pursuit of competition “wins” becomes paramount, instructors risk choreographing solely to please judges. This approach is flawed for several key reasons. Firstly, it compromises the authenticity of artistic expression. Choreography should originate from genuine inspiration and a desire to communicate a personal message. When we second-guess judges’ preferences, we silence our own artistic voice. Secondly, victory is unpredictable. We can create visually stunning, innovative, and emotionally resonant dances, but guaranteed wins are unattainable. A trophy doesn’t validate the artistic merit of a piece. The work itself is the achievement. Audience appreciation is the true success, and judge recognition is an added bonus. Thirdly, prioritizing winning in dance does a disservice to dancers. Their self-worth shouldn’t be tied to trophies or rankings. Defining themselves by external validation sets them up for disappointment, as consistent winning is impossible. Like dance, life itself is inherently unfair.
Alt text: Energetic dance class with diverse students practicing choreography, highlighting the collaborative and artistic environment of dance education.
Alt text: Focused young dancer performing on stage in a competition setting, showcasing the dedication and artistry of youth in competitive dance.
Alt text: Assortment of dance competition trophies symbolizing achievement in dance, yet underscoring that artistic value transcends awards in dance competitions.
