Dancing About Science - Chapter 1: Singled Out (What is Public Shaming?)

As a young dancer, I loved every moment of class...well, most every moment. I recall a particular event that changed my thoughts surrounding the dance community very early on.

I was around 8 or 9 years old. Having danced for at least 3 years at this point, I found myself securing front line formations and leveling up my ballet, tap, and jazz skills. I wasn't great, but I was at least seemingly on track for a 90's dancer. However, the overall feel of the studio was beginning to weigh on myself and my parents.

The Deciding Factor

We were nearing the end of the season, having completed the typical spring recital and moving into summer progressions. My dance teacher at the time liked to pass out registration forms along with placement notes prior to summer break.

Along with the moms, all of the dancers sat in the studio cross-legged, awaiting their fate. Myself, along with 2 other dance friends, had decided after the previous recital that we would be changing studios in the fall. Recital costume costs were becoming way too expensive and as mentioned, the overall studio vibe wasn't encouraging.

She was nearing the end of the stack of placement notes, and my 2 friends and I hadn't received one. I was a little confused by the lack of a note, but my friends were more affected. One walked up to her and asked for her form, to which my dance teacher snapped, "You're not coming back in the fall anyway."

Our moms were shocked. My friends started to cry. I couldn't process what had just happened. How did she know? And even if she did, weren't we entitled to making that decision come fall? Weren't we warranted a placement note to see what level we had advanced to? Was it truly okay to treat 3rd graders this way?

What is Public Shaming?

What we experienced was a form of public shaming. We were singled out, embarrassed in front of our peers, and humiliated by the "boss". This type of act has psychological impacts that can result in anger and/or perfectionism. Sometimes shaming is used in an attempt to sway the recipients' actions or decisions. Other times, it's simply a form of aggression.

Thankfully, the action taken that day solidified our decision to switch studios (and thank GOODNESS it did!), but I internalized that event as a lesson.

Take Home Lesson

The dance community is so competitive. It can be a challenge to keep up with your body, the fees, and the pressure. As teachers, how we treat children and adults matters. As studio owners, how we value our patrons matters. And at the end of the day, it's up to the individual dancer whether or not they come back.

**BaM Choreography is a no pressure, no judgement dance studio. All ages and levels are always welcome in our space.