Every little girl who embarked on the journey of ballet has the early memory of running around in a pale pink leotard and tights, with a beautifully adorned tutu around her waist. Against the backdrop of sprightly, instrumental melodies, she cranes her neck to see the friendly ballet teacher’s face, eyes wide with anticipation as gentle words pour forth. Arms rounded above her head, and foot pointed out to the side, imitating the angelic teacher before her. For some, this memory ended with sparkly costumes and turning on stage for a recital; for others, it ended in tears; but maybe, just maybe, it ended with a lifelong passion for dance. For those in the latter category, the mirage of dance as effortless movement was quickly shattered, replaced by the reality of how much hard work goes into creating this illusion.
Dance can be dissected into two main components: athleticism and artistry, and a true dancer will eventually find both. Typically, one begins dancing at a technical level, focusing on a foundational understanding of ballet and jazz that will translate into more advanced levels and other styles. At times, this process feels tedious (to be honest, it is), but the only way to improve is to find enjoyment in this process. Think about the dancer you want to be and recognize that these pliés and tendus (basic ballet steps) are the way to get there.
Once you have gained an elementary understanding of dance, this is where the true illusion begins to form. At this level, artistry is infused into athleticism, and life begins to breathe into the movement. This isn’t to say you are done with technique classes, not even close, but the technique becomes more intricate and challenging as it also becomes more natural. You begin to feel a sense of familiarity, and the tendus turn into battements, and the pliés turn into grand jetés. Dance is no longer something you do; it flows through your veins, pumping your heart with blood and your lungs with oxygen. You begin to work hard not to achieve some potentially unattainable goal, but you recognize that the more you put in, the more you get out, and suddenly the goal is attainable. The more classes you take, hours you practice, and passion you find, the greater a dancer you will become, and the more fulfilled as a person you will feel.
Dance can become a part of you, so fiery and deep that without it, a hole would open. But dance can only have this effect when true love and dedication are found, as it is much easier to quit than to keep going through the hard days and tedious moments. When one is able to find these two elements, improvement is inevitable, and the blush pink leotards and tulle tutus turn into your blood and soul. Athleticism and artistry—the very essence of dance.