Equity, Diversity, And Inclusion In Ballet
Times are changing and the call for collective social change has never been louder and sweeping. Ballet and its institution are no longer elite or exclusive. The time-hollowed notions and austere traditions of ballet have perpetuated historical inequity and discrimination. The burgeoning diversity and inclusivity movement in ballet are opening doors for racially marginalised, LGBTQIA, and multi-generational communities. Ballet companies, schools, and dancers are working in tandem to change the cultural narrative of ballet, which has classically been white-dominated and very class-oriented. Today, ballet is no longer just an art form, it has become a form of therapy. People of all races, genders, and age are eager to be a part of this celebrated art. Ballet as a form of dance therapy is gaining popularity due to competitive dance shows, movies, Netflix, and growing health consciousness.
Racial minorities and non-binary ballet students still suffer from systemic microaggression, microinsults, and microinvalidations. Historical racist overtones have prevented equal access for people of colour into the world of ballet. On the other hand, techniques and movements in ballet are segregated into gender-based roles and this detachment has become a barrier for non-binary, transgender, gender-fluid, and gender-nonconforming dancers. Classical ballet is not gender-ambiguous. Cisgender students have their roles to play. Male students do lifts and leaps while female students act as delicate sylphs. The gender-restrictive nature of ballet is changing swiftly to become more gender-expansive. Contemporary moves like Gaga, Forsythe, and contact improvisation are challenging partnering rules of ballet.
The transition of ballet classes to digital platforms has been a pivotal moment in the gender-inclusive movement. Virtual classes are helping students worldwide to learn dance without adhering to institutionalised gender stereotypes, blending feminine and masculine qualities to create dynamic performances with or without a partner. They are ditching gender-affirming outfits, bodily gestures, movements, and enactments. Virtual learning is helping queer dancers to learn on their own terms, without scrutiny and judgements of peers and teachers.
Train Like A Ballerina embraces everyone’s uniqueness and celebrates individualism in all shapes and forms. Our efforts are directed to create a diverse, inclusive, and equal environment where everyone is welcome. We love ballet and we want to spread the joy of dancing. Our workout regimes are for everyone- young, old, cisgender, non-binary. Our custom workout classes will guide you through the intricacies of classical and contemporary ballet. Ballet inspired exercises are an exciting and fresh alternative to regular workouts. Learn how to do plié and barre exercises to tone your body and lengthen your muscle, all from the comfort of your home. Train Like A Ballerina’s fitness regime will help you become stronger, leaner, and healthier.
At Train Like A Ballerina, our ballet specific workouts are intended to help people improve their techniques, flexibility, and mobility. Each of our programs is designed for our audience to achieve their ultimate fitness goal. The ballet workouts range from beginner to professional. Whether you are a dancer or not, these workouts will help you learn and refine basic as well as advanced ballet techniques at home. These techniques will improve strength, agility, and sculpt your body just like a ballet dancer. Training like a ballerina has never been more easy or accessible. Workout anywhere, anytime. Join us today to master the art of ballet.
We, at Train Like a Ballerina heartily believe that ballet is for everyone and we are committed to helping everyone who wants to train like a ballerina.
