Dancers facing criticism can often find themselves angry, embarrassed, insecure, or confused. The key is for dancers to look inside themselves, think about the reason for the criticism, and strive to improve when given criticism on their work.
Criticism for Young Dancers and Dance Students
Dance teachers demand perfection in technique, physical strength, and concentration, starting from a young age. Therefore, much of a dancer’s experience with criticism can occur before he or she enters high school. While also at an awkward stage in life, criticism from dance teachers and young peers can be damaging if not handled properly by both sides.
During these times, dancers should look to supportive peers, parents, teachers, and other helpful figures in their lives. They should also not be afraid to talk to their critics, in order to understand for what they are being criticized. It is crucial for dancers to know for what they are being criticized, so that they know what needs more work in the future.
Keeping Communication Open between Dancer and Critic
It is very important for dancers to separate comments of constructive criticism from personal attacks. Distinguishing between the two will help dancers to learn from their mistakes, and will keep the lines of communication open between themselves and their critics. As with young dance students communicating with their teachers, dancers should continue to communicate with their teachers, choreographers, and directors throughout their lives.
Without constant communication, a dancer and his or her teacher or choreographer can digress into petty arguments at the slightest criticism from either side. Being smart about communication can help dancers and teachers to learn to cope with criticism, and to avoid personal attacks against each other.
Criticism in Context
Dancers should remember that what matters most is how they feel about their own work and performance. When faced with criticism for a piece or combination that they believe was their very best, dancers most likely will feel more hurt from the criticism. When criticized for a performance that they were not happy with, dancers usually will understand where the critique is coming from. They must take any criticism or comment in the context that it was given, and process it based on their own evaluation of their performance.
Dancers should keep in mind that those who are criticizing them are also their biggest supporters. Criticism is almost always given in order for the dancers to think about what they are doing, learn from their mistakes, and improve overall. Remembering this will help dancers and dance students to cope with criticism in classes and performances.
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