What You'll Learn
- The societal and cultural challenges adult dancers face in traditional studio settings.
- How to navigate the complex boundaries and ethics of working with minors in a dance environment.
- The importance of creating dedicated spaces for adult artistic expression and performance.
- Strategies for addressing power imbalances and advocating for yourself as an adult student.
- Insights into the collective model of dance performance for adult professionals.
About This Video
In this insightful episode of Broche Banter, we dive deep into the unique landscape of adult ballet with Kelsey Maloney-Steiner and Jessica Maddox from the Facet Dance Collective. While many adult dancers spend hours at the barre perfecting their plié and relevé, the transition from the classroom to the stage presents a distinct set of challenges and opportunities. This discussion centers on the cultural dynamics of traditional dance studios, which are often structured around a 'kid-friendly' environment. Kelsey and Jessica share their firsthand experiences navigating these spaces, where adult dancers are frequently expected to conform to standards designed for minors rather than being treated as mature artists.
A significant portion of the conversation addresses the 'double bind' of being an adult in a traditional studio setting. Often, adults are viewed as mentors or caretakers by default, which can lead to complex ethical boundaries and power imbalances. When issues arise regarding safety or studio ethics, adult dancers often face the difficult choice of speaking up and risking their place in the community or remaining silent to maintain access to training and performance opportunities. At Broche Ballet, we believe in empowering the adult dancer to find their voice and claim their space as a legitimate artist.
The Facet Dance Collective serves as a powerful example of how dancers can create their own platforms. By prioritizing adult-centric spaces, they allow performers to focus on their artistic expression without the distractions of caretaking or navigating juvenile social dynamics. Whether you are currently training en pointe or are just starting your journey at the barre, understanding these social and professional dynamics is essential for any adult student. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of the adult dance community and the importance of establishing safe, inclusive, and professional environments for dancers of all ages.
