In some circles, there are stigmas against adults participating in dance competitions. In an industry that is so accepting of gay, straight, transgender, vibrant hair colors, tattoos, etc; why are some people so against adults being allowed the opportunity to grow as a dancer and performer?
The Figure Skating Industry has adult programs and encourages adults of all ages to compete. The same goes for Line Dancing and Ballroom Dancing. There are adult leagues for Hockey, Football, Basketball, Baseball, etc. So why shouldn’t adults compete at a dance competition?
There are so many benefits for adults who dance. Some of these include:
If you read my last article, you already know doctors in the U.K. are on the brink of dispensing prescriptions for people to dance. Research proves it’s a powerful tool for mental health and performing is a powerful tool for self-growth.
So, with this much positivity and science behind encouraging adults to dance, why do some people harbor a negative stigma about adults performing in dance competitions?
Fortunately, it looks like the tides are changing and it is becoming more socially acceptable to let adults in on this endorphin releasing activity.
In 2007 Dance Magazine posted an article titled, “Better Late Than Never: Six Pros on Starting Later in Life.” In the article, they discuss how David Zurak, a former member of the Martha Graham Dance Company, did not start dancing until he was 23.
Former Artistic Director of the Grand Rapids Ballet and current Artistic Director of RPM Productions, Gordon Peirce Schmidt, did not take his first dance class until he was a sophomore in college. He wanted to start in High School, but thought it was too late. He went on to choreograph over 40 ballets for Grand Rapids Ballet.
Jennifer Macavinta, of Pilobolus Dance Theatre took her first dance class in college. She is quoted as saying, “A lot of girls had technique, but I just had a lot of heart.”
In 2020 Dance Magazine followed up with another article entitled, “These Pros Prove That It’s Possible to Start Training Later.” They featured five adult dancers in the article, one of which was Melany Centeno.
Melany is a commercial dancer who has performed with Jennifer Lopez and Jason Derulo. She is quoted as saying, “Social media can give you the wrong idea about where you need to start to be successful. Be humble, patient and open to learning.”
Broadway Dance Center in New York City recently featured an adult dancer on their social media in April 2023. Anna Hiran started taking class at 23 and left her job in Finance to pursue a career in the dance industry.
StarQuest Dance Competition posted an adult dancer on their social media in April 2023. The post read, “You are never too old to dance,” and featured Megan Casey an adult dancer and Studio Owner.
Since the resurgence of dance after Covid, we’ve seen more and more adult entries at Elite Performance Challenge. Hopefully this starts a positive trend that helps adults experience growth through performance!
Wrapping up this forward-thinking article, I’d like to leave you with a fun, inspirational dad dance performed at Hall of Fame and unapologetically enthusiastic adult dancer, @Juliethedancingmom from TikTok. See these awesome videos below.
Dance is for everyone.
Nichole Fortunato, Co-Owner & Director
Elite Performance Challenge
Excel in Motion
Final note: The Dance Magazine article featuring David Zurak was written in 2007. Upon completion of my research for this article, I discovered David passed away in 2017 from brain cancer. I’m so glad he was able to find his passion in life. If you want to dance and perform, don’t let age stop you!