Gigi Torres | Inspire & Be Inspired.

I used to write a lot of entries on issues I feel that should be talked about openly, it’s been over 2 years since my last one…I think it’s due time for another. PLEASE feel free to speak what’s on your mind and open up this forum: 

QUALITY, WORK COMPENSATION, & EVENT RATE STANDARDS IN THE DANCE COMMUNITY ARE LOWERED EACH AND EVERY YEAR DUE TO “COMPETITION” WITH TOO MANY STUDIOS, ORGANIZERS, DANCERS, CHOREOGRAPHERS, & INSTRUCTORS. In world that’s going through a crisis where almost everyone is hurting financially, how do you think we could keep THE ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT alive and keep OURSELVES alive?

Studio Owners & Organizers: How are you keeping afloat and keep your business running?

Choreographers, Instructors, & Dancers: How do you maintain a stable income? How do you survive month to month?

[I remember taking about 4+ classes a week in 2000-2006 on top of rehearsing 3 full nights a week with the dance companies I was on and working a part-time job. Now I see dancers just training with their dance companies with no outside training.

I remember taking class in LA back in 2002-2006 (when I was 17-21 yrs old) and paying $25-40 for a Master Class! Now most master classes are $15-25. 

I remember teaching workshops in 2006-2009 when dancers would pay $50 for a 3 class workshop and it would be FULL! Now dancers “might” go and pay $25 for a 3 class workshop and it’s not to capacity.

I remember going to dance shows paying $50 for a ticket. I remember paying $20 for a club event. Now dance shows are at most $35 and people want to get in for free to club events.]

REALISTICALLY, what do you think will happen to the dance community in 1 year, 3 years, 5 years, or 10 years? Where do you think YOU will be in this time? 

Thank you for sharing with me and the community, in advance. Pass this note along if you feel it’s fit :) 

-Gigi

***This has been on my mind because lately, I’ve been seeing a lot of people with so much TALENT and BUSINESS MINDSET with GENUINE CARE for the DANCE COMMUNITY either lose their business or quit dancing/choreographing/teaching. I’ve been seeing people change their paths, give up, or put a hold on their dreams because of reasons that may not be their fault.***