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Every time I
hop on the internet, I am always amazed at how far
technology has come. When I was a young boy, my father
died and shortly after that, I lost a brother who
was only 20 years old. That was over 30 years ago.
I often think, "If I could only bring them back
for one day. What would they think of our world now?
They would certainly be impressed with our technology,
computers, cell phones, microwaves, automobiles, and
the list goes on. We really do live during incredible
times. (Or is that what everybody thinks during their
lifetime)? This brings me to my latest spin topic.....how
things have changed. Here is my comment on one of
these changes.
During the past 23 years, I have witnessed many changes
in the dance world. I think it is important to not
only recognize these changes, but to allow them to
happen. Growing pains can be tough. Here's an example:
Every now and then, I like to "surf the net"
and see what some of the chat rooms are talking about.
(Dance chat rooms, of course). I hopped onto one discussion
board where several dancers (mostly amateurs) were
discussing their likes and dislikes regarding Michael
Mead and Toni Redpath, our current United States American
Smooth Champions. They shared their opinions, (mostly
negative but some were positive,) and ventured on
to giving their opinions regarding several other competitors,
Ben Ermis and Shalene Archer, David Weise and Valentina
etc... Some wrote that they couldn't understand how
this couple placed well and that couple didn't place
well. They gave their opinions about the couple's
expressions or lack there of, their costuming and
style and on and on, you get the picture. Something
like this discussion room concept is very new to the
dance world. Opinions have always been shared, but
now they can go global!
After several days of consorting
with each other over the strengths and weaknesses
of the professional competitors, one of America's
top professionals wrote in to defend his fellow peers.
"Who are you to criticize?" he asked, basically
saying that they shouldn't have the right to be so
bold with their comments because they have never reached
the level that these dancers have reached. They have
not walked the walk so, who are they to talk the talk?!!!!!
You could say he was a bit upset.
I sat back and thought about what
this professional had just done. The more I thought
about it, the more I realized something. This is exactly
what our sport needs! This is the next level of the
Dancesport craze! THE FAN!!!!!! We have always had
spectators, people who attend dance competitions because
they love to watch competitive ballroom dancing. But,
this is different. As much as some may not like some
of the comments, these are fans of the professionals.
Fans are passionate. Fans are loyal, and yes, sometimes
fans are cruel. You should have seen me at the end
of the Bucks and Sixers game last night. I couldn't
believe my team blew it at the very end! The center
(were talkin' basketball folks) was awful and our
star player looked like he couldn't make the high
school squad. HE STUNK! Where was his passion? Where
was his brain?!...but, that was last night. The game
before, I was praising his name. He was certainly
headed for the Hall of Fame! He was the best thing
that ever happened to this team and to the game of
basketball! He was my hero!
My point is this..... We are all
a fan of something or someone, whether it be in sports,
the arts, Hollywood etc... Maybe the celebrities don't
always like what a fan may say about them but hey,
it's better than the alternative. There are plenty
of pros, who are waiting for an opportunity to break
into that final, who would be more than happy to trade
places with those who have reached the highest levels
in our sport. Is it unfair criticism? Is it a bunch
of unskilled dancers giving assessments of high level
pros? Should they keep their opinions to themselves?
I think this... Let the fans talk, good or bad, let
'em talk and talk and talk and talk! This is what
we need, people who have enough interest and passion
for this sport that, not only do they enjoy attending
our sporting events, they want to hop onto the internet
and discuss it with fellow dance enthusiasts! It is
a new era for ballroom dancing.
Just a bit more about those boards.
I think that overall, it's a good thing and we should
let it be. There have been many constructive discussions
and it is a great way for dancers to share information.
I do wonder about those people who blast under the
cover of anonymity and how far they should be allowed
to go. If someone feels the need to defend themselves,
then they should. Just realize though, that for as
many critical fans as there are out there, there are
probably many more supportive fans. So pros, be proud
of what you have accomplished and don't let the criticism
get to you so much.
You know, I just figure out
what my Dad would probably say to me first......"Son,
you're a DANCE INSTRUCTOR???!"
Dan
Messenger
05-31-2001
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