Dancing for Money: From Social Conditioning to Professional Pursuit

Have you ever imagined dancing for money? The act of performing for financial gain has been a topic of curiosity and debate for years. In this article, we explore the hesitant yet intriguing journey of individuals who have danced for money, and how societal norms and beliefs shape our perceptions and decisions.

Social Conditioning and Money

When I was a child, dancing for money was not an acceptable activity. The notion that a dancer could be compensated for their talent was met with offense and disapproval. This mindset was deeply ingrained in me and my sisters as we participated in school performances and won interschool competitions. However, we were strictly forbidden from dancing at Ram Leela, a 8-9 days long stage performance of Ramayan where children often performed and received money from spectators.

My perception of money began to evolve when I entered adulthood. Despite the traditional views I was conditioned to believe during my younger years, money became a significant aspect of my life. Yet, certain activities were deemed inappropriate or degrading, such as becoming an air hostess, hotel receptionist, nurse, secretary, or actress. The media often portrayed these roles as glorified to attract undue attention and acknowledged achievement.

The Military School Experience

One of my early experiences involving dancing for money was when I was 9 years old and joined a military school. Initially assigned to the Highland Dancing squad, I was not particularly talented and was eventually dismissed after my second year. However, before my departure, our squad was invited to perform at the Edinburgh Tattoo, a grand military event. I ended up dancing three times, and despite being a reserve member, I received the same payment as the other performers - half-a-dollar a day, which was also known as 2 shillings and 6 pence, or half a crown.

Professional Pursuit and Personal Reflection

In contrast to my early hesitation, I have since embraced dancing for money in a professional context. Over the years, I have been employed as a dancer in various productions and companies across different countries. Currently, I teach and coach dancers who also earn a living through their professional artistry. This raises an interesting question about the background of those who seek to understand or engage in such activities.

Personal Stories and Anecdotes

While I myself have not danced for money in recent times, I can relate to stories shared by other individuals. For instance, some girls in Amarillo, Texas, have found success and financial stability through dancing. On the other hand, my childhood experiences were filled with phobias and insecurities. For instance, my mother often attempted to drive us to the South Park Beach, during which I was frightened by a small man with bulging eyes. This man, however, was not the only one who caused me anxiety; others with visible marks on their faces, like birthmarks, also troubled me deeply.

These experiences have shaped my perspective on money and dance, highlighting the complex interplay between social conditioning and personal choices. Whether it's engaging in a dance performance for money or rejecting such opportunities, the journey of self-discovery and professional growth is ongoing.

From childhood to adulthood, the concept of dancing for money has evolved significantly, reflecting broader societal changes and individual beliefs. This journey reveals the importance of personal introspection and the impact of external factors on shaping our lives.