2 Simple Ways To Thrive as a Black Dancer Today

There is nothing new under the sun. That rings true even for the dance world. Today there is a push to not only celebrate black dancers but, for companies where there dancers are the minority, to be recognized and given greater visibility. 

Jammed between shouts for lasting resolution and advocacy are subtle stains of isolation which runs the risk of perpetuating the very inclusion many are working for. It is easy to get swept up in an attitude of superiority and entitlement. In my opinion there is a way to make mention of black dance artists not receiving equal visibility to their coworkers or the fact that many black dancers are nurtured through passive aggressive behaviors within some dance companies without becoming the dancer who is more concerned about their "blackness" than the work of the art. 

Here is a quick example. When I joined my ballet company I was the only black woman. Everyone had costumes that sported elastics to blend to their skin tone (which creates a seamless look onstage) and they were able to perfectly throw their hair into a French twist at a moments notice. Well, when it came to me, I would get my costume and had to "pancake" (use makeup to make fabric match my skin tone) my straps and it took me extra time and effort to get my hair into a French twist because it isn't naturally straight. Those two situations are perfect opportunities for me to become upset or offended. While progression needs to occur within the dance world it does not make my day smoother or my skillset better to get in an uproar about ever single situation that reminds me some dance companies are not diligent in accommodating different colored dancers. I chose and still choose not to become outraged because while progress needs to take place (speedily and authentically), it is my belief that constantly lamenting over things like these in the work place can have a negative barring on me as the artist. I am simply admonishing that you choose your battles. After all, black, green or pink, your light when shine brightly when it is pure. 

While you cannot control the actions of everyone else you can control your own. Here are two simple ways to thrive as a black dancer today. Number one, Celebrate your uniqueness. Part of what gives the world its beauty is difference. Think about the different selection of apples in a produce section or different breed of cute puppies in your neighborhood. There is beauty in difference. With difference also comes possibility. So don't isolate yourself because of previous bad experiences (i.e. only wanting to deal with or work with black people in black places with black ideas). Someone may have not cast you in a work because your hair does not naturally flow. Another person may have made a ridiculous slave reference as you inquired about costuming. Don't let it taint you. Victimizing yourself will not create spaces for you. Victimizing yourself only makes you stagnant.

Number two, respect your art form. Whatever it takes to be and to do, focus on those things. The respect you have for your art should be followed by a personal pursuit of excellence. 

Does any of that sound like we have time to be offended? 

Go "awf, friend. Change the narrative. Shine bright.