Final Week: Mission Accomplished

So, as the dance class series comes to a close, there is likely one more question remaining that some might wonder about. Where does a feminist attitude merge with what many might call the "objectification of women" in this type of performance dance? Whew! that IS a big question and I'm definitely not qualified to provide an answer, other than sharing my own perspective.

Objectification? Honestly? Yes - in some ways, this might be true. This type of dance feels good and is physically challenging but in addition, its overall intent is to be pretty to whomever is watching. In most ways, I consider myself to be a feminist - a woman can do whatever a man can do, equal rights, etc. However, I also like (and frankly expect) some old-fashioned chivalry and there are traditional gender roles that I still fully embrace. That being said, this dance is meant to be pretty and I think many women like to feel pretty. What is wrong with that? We put on lipstick, curl our hair, use wrinkle fighting lotions, and a million other activities so that we can feel "pretty". I would also argue that women understand that there are other aspects of being attractive outside of your physical presence that include intelligence, honesty, compassion, a sense of humor, spirituality, and emotional strength. We don't have to feel guilty about  any of these things in the name of feminism. I read recently that "feminism is about being free to decide who I want to be and how I want to act."

I'm glad that I took this class. I learned some new dance skills which nobody else will likely ever see but more than that, I confronted some personal attitudes about myself and my own values. I started the session full of doubts and negative self talk. And through the class, the people I've met there, and some personal examination, I've become empowered in a way that I wasn't before the session. I am proud of getting to this point and I've enjoyed the journey.

I looked back at my beginning entry and the instructor's quote regarding this class....

"My job is to make them see what I see...that those arms, legs and everything in between are beautiful, fabulous, wonderful vehicles for expression and joy!"

Mission accomplished.



Post script:
So did I participate in Showcase? After much internal debate, the decision was actually made for me when another opportunity for that evening presented itself and had to take precedence so I did not participate. However, barring any schedule conflicts, would I have participated? It is likely that I would have. Though the thought scared me, I like to think that when it came time, I would have taken a deep breath and given it a shot. But for now, my dance career draws to a close. I will likely now pursue exercise more appropriate for a grandmother other than chair dance. Chair knitting maybe? Perhaps chair reading? But I will go forward with a the lessons learned and renewed sense of self confidence. Now..."exit stage left..."