A Dance Journey Begins
Vanessa Bright, a life coach and musician, brings a rich tapestry of experiences to the dance floors of salsa, bachata and kizomba. Despite an initial skepticism influenced by peers, her journey into the rhythm and soul of dance began in 2008 and has since evolved into a passionate advocacy for the importance of safer dance spaces and respectful environments in dance communities. Learn more about her journey in Vanessa's interview.
Vanessa's entry into the world of salsa and bachata was not through traditional dance lessons but rather through a vibrant salsa club in Reading. It was here that the music and the community gradually won her over. This spontaneous introduction to dance highlights the organic and often serendipitous nature of falling in love with dance—an art form that she initially dismissed due to preconceived notions about its showiness.
Cultural Roots and Dance
As Vanessa delved deeper into dance, she discovered that her Mauritian heritage endowed her with a natural rhythm, thanks to many childhood years of local dancing Mauritius. This inherent skill, combined with her newfound appreciation for the music, propelled her past the beginner stages by simply learning on the dance floor. Her story underscores the importance of cultural roots in shaping one's dance style and how informal learning environments can sometimes offer just as much, if not more growth, as formal training. To hear more about how Vanessa's cultural roots influenced her dance, check out her interview.
Navigating the Challenges of Dance Education
Vanessa's journey has not been without its challenges. One significant area of concern for her as both a life coach and a dancer is the safety of dance spaces. The informal settings where she thrived also exposed her to the inconsistencies in how dance communities handle safety and respect. This experience has driven her to advocate for more structured and vigilant approaches to teaching dance—a call for instructors to not only teach dance moves but also to foster safer dance spaces and more respectful environments.
The Role of Instructors in Fostering Safer Dance Spaces
Vanessa points out a concerning gap in the dance community: the lack of formal training and vetting for instructors, particularly in the UK. She suggests that a more regulated approach, could benefit the community greatly. Instructors play a pivotal role in setting the tone for their classes and thus have the responsibility to ensure that all participants feel safe and respected, regardless of their skill, level or background.
Creating a Community of Respect and Safety
Reflective of her life coaching background, Vanessa emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces in dance classes. She advocates for starting each session with clear discussions on boundaries, respectful behaviour, and the expectations of all involved. This proactive approach would not only enhance the learning experience but also help towards building a community where dancers feel valued and safe. For more insights on creating safer dance spaces, listen to Vanessa's thoughts in her full interview.
Vanessa's experiences and insights are a call to action for dance communities everywhere. By integrating respect, safety, and inclusivity into every aspect of dance education, instructors can cultivate an environment that truly celebrates the joy and communal spirit of dance.
For those inspired by Vanessa’s story and advocacy, subscribe to The Empowered Dancers Podcast for more enriching discussions that explore the depth and breadth of the dancing world. Your comments and questions not only enrich our community but also drive us towards creating more inclusive and enjoyable dance experiences for everyone.
