Teamwork. Perseverance. Respect. These are just a few of the core values that every dedicated dancer practices daily in the studio. Dancers grow up learning about the importance of friendship and camaraderie as they interact with their classmates and perform onstage as one cohesive group. It is because of these admirable traits that I can proudly state the 10 reasons why you should befriend a dancer!
1. They work well with other people.
When it comes to group projects, dancers are PROS! They have the insane ability to train, rehearse, perform and collaborate with the same group of people 24/7 without losing their minds. This means your dancer friend won't get easily irritated when you blast your jam from '08 on repeat in the car!
2. They make great workout buddies.
No one knows how to be a gym partner like a dancer! They know all the best workouts for toning legs and abs and how to limber up the most inflexible of people. Dancers understand the importance of motivation, so they never fail to cheer on their friends to that last push-up!
3. They value respect for others.
After every ballet class is a "reverence", in which both the ballerinas and the teacher curtsy/bow to each other to show respect. This act of daily surrender is an example the humility and courtesy found in a dancer's heart. A good friend is a respectful one, and that is exactly what you can expect from befriending a dancer.
4. They have a great sense of humor.
Humiliating moments haunt even the most experienced dancer. Whether it be a costume that accentuates all the wrong body parts or a face-down tumble on center stage, embarrassment is simply part of the job. The red-faced dancer could cry or pout, but that produces nothing but exhaustion and further disgrace. So, many dancers have learned to utilize the gift of humor as a coping mechanism for their everyday strife. Who wouldn't want a pal by their side to crack jokes with? Letting a dancer into your life might just bless you with a little more laughter. (For a good example of dance humor, check out @biscuitballerina on Instagram.)
5. They understand sacrifice.
Dancers understand that having something worthwhile, be it dance or friendship, requires sacrifice. To give up parties, junk food, spare time and other comforts speaks volumes of the lengths dancers will go for something they love. For a friend to receive that kind of sacrificial love is rare and extraordinary.
6. They are great listeners.
To learn combinations and choreography quickly, dancers have to be skillfull listeners. They have to catch small details and nuances, even when the instructor is not so clear. You can be sure that a dancer will be able to hear you out, even when words seem like a struggle.
7. They are experts in non-verbal communication.
Using body language to tell a story instead of words is a dancer's forte. This means that your beloved dancer is quick to pick up on your emotions, just by observing your non-verbal queues. Friend material? I think so.
8. You'll know the best dancer at the party.
Let's face it. At most social functions, the most advanced dance moves happening are the nae-nae and the Milly rock. Bring your highly-trained dancin' pal along, and you'll have a jam circle like never before. Impress everyone with your BFF's pop-and-lock skills or their crazy pirouettes! (PSA: Your dancer friend may not enjoy doing "tricks" at gatherings, but that's okay. They will still hold the title of "best mover in the room").
9. They'll impress your parents.
Dancers spend many a day at auditions in front of older, scary-looking adults. What better way to prepare for meeting your parents?! Your bestie can strike up a well-educated conversation on a plethora of topics like contemporary performance, their extensive resume, and the evolution of dance as an art form. They'll even be prepared to throw in some jazz hands if needed!
10. They will love you deeply.
The love that dancers have for their art is supernatural. It goes beyond all logic and reason. Why else would someone sacrifice so much of themselves but love? If you have found a dancer friend, and they truly love you, prepare to be blown away by their devotion and care.
As you can see, a friendship with a dancer is a beautiful thing. Not only do you gain so much from entering into their world, but you also learn something valuable from their work ethic, humility, and sacrificial love. If you already have that dancer friend, tell them how much you appreciate what they do. It is not an easy task to be an artist, performer, and friend, but it is every bit worth it.
