Abstract

Why dance if not for a trophy? When young dancers participate in the competitive dance world, the motivation to win a trophy is dangled in front of them constantly. Meaning there is a chance they can lose sight of why they started dancing to begin with. Not every dancer goes through this experience, but what happens when there is no more “winning”. This study observed why individuals continue to dance past their time in competitive environments and how the experiences were impactful to them as they continued their dance education. The shift from an overly competitive learning environment to a differently-paced supportive environment is a change dancers are not often prepared for, and was the reason for this research to be conducted. The investigation was conducted virtually through a survey and follow-up interviews resulting in a short documentary to report findings. Dancers were contacted through communications at Muhlenberg College, 13 were willing to share their experiences, 3 continued further into an interview.I heard from individuals of various experience levels, when they started dancing, why they stopped, the negatives and positives of the competitive worlds, what learned skills are applicable to their life outside of dancing, what was different before and after starting college dance, and where they hope their career will lead. The variety of participants displayed there is no one pathway for a dancer and to highlight how the competitive world is both beneficial and detrimental to a dancer’s health, well-being, and passion for dance.