1. She will never have a lot of free time
Even though it may sound like "Sorry I can't, I have dance" is her excuse for literally everything, it's the truth. If you want to date a dancer, you have to plan dates in advance and be understanding when she has to stay late for a dress rehearsal. Accept that she will usually have shows on weekend, and learn to love weekday brunch and lunch dates.
2. She owns a lot of makeup and hair products
Sure, maybe she has more liquid eyeliner, hairspray, false eyelashes, setting spray, pancake foundation, heat tools, etc. than your average non-dancer but it's all part of the territory. She knows how to take care of her skin and hair to compensate for the wear and tear because she takes pride in looking professional. This doesn't mean she's vain or stuck up though, she looks good when she wants to because she wants to.
3. She has no energy for jealousy and pettiness
After long, long days of practicing and conditioning she really does not want to argue with you about stupid things. If you have an issue with her performing in a revealing costume or up close and personal with a male partner, then you're probably wasting your time. She will not give up her career for you or anyone else.
4. She will be so excited if you take her out dancing
Even if you suck. It's her job to be a good dancer and she will gladly teach you if you decide to take her to a swing dance club or salsa night. She will really appreciate you showing interest in the things she cares about and will definitely do the same for you.
5. She will make you watch dance movies and tv shows
Maybe I have an unhealthy obsession with "Dance Moms" and the "Step Up" movies, sue me. If you date a dancer you'll end up seeing these shows and movies so much that you actually start to like them. You'll know exactly who Maddie Ziegler and Misty Copeland are too, as well as other dancers that she loves and worships.
6. She will ask you to crack her back/massage her pretty regularly
She lives in a chronic state of soreness and will likely need some TLC from you. Every time she moves she will crack in various places so hopefully that doesn't gross you out. Her feet probably won't be too pretty either, but she'll love you forever if you can get past her blisters and bunions to give her a foot rub.
7. She will be super offended if you tell her dance isn't a real job
Dance may look glamorous and effortless from an outside perspective, but you do not realize how much dedication and skill it requires to make it in the industry. Also never tell her that dance is not a sport compared to traditional sports. Trust me, don't debate her on this.
8. She will stretch anywhere. Anytime.
If her hamstrings cramp up while you're at the park she has no shame in stretching them out in front of tons of families. She also probably sits casually in positions that look unhealthy to you, but you'll just never understand how comfy it can be to chill out in a straddle.
9. She is motivated, independent, and disciplined
Dance profoundly affects the way you carry and express yourself. If you date a dancer be prepared to be in the presence of an ambitious perfectionist who will never settle for less than she deserves. Her job is physically taxing and she loves receiving support, but she does not need you or anyone else to run her life. Despite how difficult her days are, there is nothing in this world she would rather be doing than dancing and you can never change that.
