Hair is perfect. Outfit is glitzy. Face is caked on with makeup. Dance ability….lacking. Unfortunately, that is the reality of the professional dance world, especially when it comes to professional sport teams. More often than not, the first cut in a professional dance audition is based on the physical appearance of the dancer. A flaw, no matter how small, can result in the elimination of a dancer without her dancing ability considered.
According to a NBA dancer for the Cleveland Cavaliers, they were under extreme scrutiny for any physical change, like a few extra pounds. Oliver conducted a study that showed 15 percent of the dancers surveyed hated their body because of dance. As a result, eating disorders and unhealthy “quick fixes” spread throughout the dance community like wild fire from dancer to dancer in order to ensure they maintain the appearance expected. The uniforms are small, leading to the emphasis on the body. A study done by Price and Pettijohn found that negative body image among dancers were common because of the attire, also leading to the eating disorders and added pressure of perfection. Many times, the contract that is signed at the end of the audition process states that the dancer can be released if a change in appearance occurs.
The question is, should dance teams possibly sacrifice ability for appearance. You can make a girl (who can dance) prettier with the professional stylists flocking around these teams. However, you cannot always successfully make a pretty girl into a dancer.
Sources
Oliver , W. (2008). Body image in the dance class. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (JOPERD), 79(5), 18-25. Retrieved from http://eds.b.ebscohost.com
Price, Brena R.; Pettijohn II, Terry F. (2006). Social Behavior & Personality: An International Journal, 34 (8), 991-998. Retrieved from http://eds.b.ebscohost.com
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