Recently, I have been looking around online. I found a lot of articles involving questions that non-dancers have for dancers. Many people on Buzzfeed.com were wondering about us dancers in the article "23 Questions Dancers Need To Answer Immediately." Today, I've decided to answer some of these real-life questions.
Skills
Why do dancers always inform people of how many hours of dance they have each day?
Here's the thing. Dance class is the equivalent of soccer practice during soccer season; you have to go. And practice isn't just for fun a few times a month. It's a full schedule of rehearsals that are needed for a recital or competition. So, informing people about the long rehearsals is usually used as a reason for why we can't commit to plans. Also, I honestly don't think we always remind you of how many hours we work hard exercising with friends.
Why do dancers choreograph flexed feet?
Like I've said probably a thousand times, dance is an art form. Sometimes, choreographers break the rules a little bit, and instead of always having perfect posture, they add in a flexed foot. It's all about perspective and storytelling. Some people think dancers are just moving around on stage with a flexed foot. Others see the beauty of the non-verbal story in front of them.
How many spins can you do?
I actually cringed when I typed the word "spins." And yes, that is in
quotes because they are pirouettes or at the least turns; Not. Spins. Now that I've gotten this out of the way, let's go over something important. I'm sure you know that everyone is different. That being said, not every dancer is a good turner. Some are better at jumps than turns. Others can do great turns, but only a few at a time. Since this is the case, not all dancers enjoy being asked to do as many turns as they can. Besides, like the old expression says, quality over quantity.
Outfits
Why do dancers wear tights?
Dancers wear tights for many reasons. First off, imagine dancing in jeans. Ouch! Dance is one fluid movement, so dancing in restricting, sturdy clothing is not easy. Tights are easy to move around in and also show off dancers' lines and muscles. That is important for moves such as leg extensions and kicks.
Why do dancers wear so much makeup?
I must agree, the amount of makeup I have to wear on stage is pretty ridiculous. My whole entire face is caked in powder, blush, highlighter, and so much more. Why is all that necessary? It is because of the bright stage lights. Stage makeup is crazy since the lights on stage are so bright, and we have to outline and highlight our facial features. This showcases our face, contrasting it against the lights and reflections from bright costumes.
Why do dancers look homeless?
Two words: being comfy. Comfortableness is extremely important to dancers. When we get the chance to wear something other than the classic tights and a leotard, we go all in. Sweatshirts, leggings, yoga pants, tank tops. I've seen it all. If you were going to go for a run, you would probably wear exercise clothes that are comfortable and easy to move in. That is exactly why dancers always choose leggings over tights or t-shirts over leotards. Hey, whatever works, right? (:
PS... DOA has an Instagram account! Check it out --> @dancersofamericablog