Beyond the Spotlight: Integrating Ballet Technique into Competitive Dance

Bethany Marc-Aurele

Bridging the Gap: Connecting Ballet Technique with the Competition World

In the competitive dance world, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of flashy costumes, eye-catching choreography, and the rush of winning awards. But as a ballet coach deeply rooted in the art of technique, I believe there’s more to dance than just the glitter and trophies. My mission is to bring the precision and discipline of ballet into the competition world, helping dancers not only stand out on stage but also grow as true artists who are passionate about their craft.

The Importance of Ballet Technique in Competitive Dance

Ballet is often seen as the foundation of all dance forms. Its emphasis on alignment, strength, and control provides dancers with the tools they need to excel in any genre. When these fundamental skills are applied to competitive dance, the result is a dancer who is not just performing but truly embodying the art of dance.

In the competition world, where routines are often fast-paced and demanding, a strong technical foundation can make all the difference. It allows dancers to execute complex movements with grace and precision, making their performances not just impressive but memorable. But more importantly, it instills in them a deep understanding of their bodies and how to use them effectively—skills that will serve them well beyond the competition stage.

Moving Beyond the Glitz and Glamour

While costumes and awards are undeniably exciting aspects of the competition world, they should never overshadow the real essence of dance. Having trained as a ballet dancer, I know firsthand the hours spent refining technique in the studio, performing only a handful of times. When I stepped on stage, my technique didn’t require thought—it was ingrained because of the hard work put in during studio time. That’s where true growth happens.

When I attend competitions, it can be difficult to watch dancers struggle on stage, not because they lack potential, but because their focus has been more on rehearsing choreography than refining the technical foundation that supports it. Technique should be second nature, developed through the hours at the barre, focusing on alignment, strength, and conditioning. Without this balance, dancers are not only bound to struggle on stage, but are more prone to injuries.

I understand the excitement of winning trophies and wearing beautiful costumes, but there is so much more to dance than the spotlight and accolades. It’s about the entire process—the dedication, the discipline, and the time invested in developing technical skills. When dancers truly invest in their training, the time they spend on stage becomes even more rewarding, not because of the trophies, but because they’ve mastered their craft and performed with confidence and ease.

Creating Well-Rounded Dancers

By integrating ballet technique and strength training into their training, I help competitive dancers become well-rounded performers who are not only technically strong but also deeply connected to their craft. This approach encourages them to see beyond the superficial aspects of competition and focus on what truly matters: their love for dance and the hard work they put into every performance.

In the end, the goal isn’t just to win awards—it’s to cultivate a lifelong passion for dance. A passion fueled by dedication, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. When dancers approach competition with this mindset, they don’t just perform—they leave a lasting impression on every audience and judge they encounter.

Conclusion

As a coach, my greatest joy comes from watching dancers embrace both the artistry and discipline of dance, in any form. By bridging the gap between technique and performance, I strive to make my dancers strong, confident, and technically seamless, allowing them to fully enjoy the fleeting moments they have on stage. My goal is to ensure that when they perform, they’re pouring their heart and love into every movement, rather than worrying about technique or nailing that double or triple turn.

I want my dancers to step on stage knowing their foundation is strong, so they can focus on connecting with the audience and judges. And as they move on from competitions into the next phase of their lives, whether pursuing a professional career in dance or exploring new opportunities, they’ll carry with them the strength, discipline, and passion that can take them to the next level.