Are dance competitions good or bad?

Dance competitions are a bit controversial, especially since the TV show Dance Moms brings them to the mainstream spotlight.  Some people believe that comps are great, and others think they only bring negativity.  There's no hard and fast answer.  In this post, I'll run through some facts, then provide my personal opinion.  I encourage you to read this post and do your own research before settling on a side for yourself.

All competitions are different.  They include different age groups, different styles of dance, different choreography and costume requirements, etc.  Some are ballet-only competitions (like Youth America Grand Prix) some are sponsored by religious organizations, and some are only open to local participants.  Not all competitions are like those depicted on Dance Moms, so unless you know for sure, don't assume that each comp is similar those on the show.

The primary thing that holds all dance competitions together is the fact that participating dancers have their performances scored, and those with high scores in a multitude of categories receive prizes.  The prizes vary hugely; some comps give out titles only (first place, etc.), some give trophies or material prize packages, some give cash prizes, and some give scholarships to dance schools or contracts for dance companies.  Additionally, people like recruiters, talent scouts, and company artistic directors sometimes attend competitions to view up-and-coming dancers and gather contact information for those they may want to work with in the future.  Sometimes the prizes or meeting opportunities offered at a competition are important motivators for contestants, and sometimes they are not.

Not all dancers who compete are alike.  Some are dedicated to pursuing dance or media careers, and others go just for fun.  A dancer's attitude toward competing often (but not always) dictates how much time, effort, and money are spent on comps.  Because competitions require original choreography, costumes, entry fees, and sometimes travel expenses, more recreational dancers tend to compete less often and/or travel less for competition.  Some dancers choreograph their own pieces for competition in order to save money or hone their choreography skills.  Similarly, some choose to make their own costumes rather than use custom pieces.

Overall, there are so many variables at play that it's impossible to paint a cohesive picture of all competition dancers.  Some are very zealous competitors who are looking for a dance career, and others are extremely casual.  Now that I've laid out the facts, I'll move into my opinion.

I think dance competitions are a good supplement to dance education for both pre-pro and recreational dancers because they provide valuable performance experience (especially if the dance school does not offer other performance opportunities like recitals or ballets).  Whether or not a dancer intends to have a full-time dance career, performing (and having the performance ranked) contributes to important skills like confidence and working hard.  These attributes are as helpful in an office-job-type career as they are in a dance company.

For some who are pursuing professional dance careers, competitions can provide important exposure and prizes that will help a dancer reach his or her goals.  When talent scouts and company directors attend competitions or prizes include contracts and scholarships, a successful comp can result in a job offer or entrance into a prestigious school.  These attendees and prizes tend to be most helpful when they are known (the comp advertises the prizes or attendees, etc.) rather than just possibilities as they give dancers concrete things to work for.

I do not think dance competitions are beneficial when they take precedence over dance training.  I believe students should be in class (learning one or multiple recognized dance styles or official syllabi from a qualified teacher) at least as many hours per week as they are in rehearsal for competitions and performances.  If rehearsal takes precedence, students will perfect their choreography, but they will not expand their dance knowledge or learn steps in new combinations.  Also, since many competition pieces showcase the most impressive skills, students may over-work one side (like only doing leaps with the right leg in front or only turning to the left) and leave the other side underdeveloped.  This can lead to "lopsided" dancing and even inconsistent muscle growth.  There is also a widespread idea that comp dancers (and coaches) place more importance on tricks than clean technique.  This isn't always true, but it does happen sometimes.  I think this is very harmful to a dancer's training, as it can cause bad habits and even injury.

I also believe dance competitions are not good when they are extremely stressful experiences.  Even the most motivated students require some coaxing to reach their potential, but teachers and parents who push the competition lifestyle risk causing more harm than good.  Constant rehearsals, travel, time out of school, and real or perceived pressure can lead to stress and anxiety, which can make both dancing and life in general not so good.

So, to finally answer the question, dance competitions can be both good and bad.  Since there is so much diversity in the world of competition dance, it's tough to call out any situation as beneficial or harmful.  Don't assume that any single comp experience is indicative of competitions in general, and don't assume that a situation that benefits one dancer will benefit all dancers.