When it comes to the competitive side of ballroom (or dancesport), many people either shy away from or look upon it negatively. Some may ask - why would you put the stress of competing on a form that should be simply enjoyable and beautiful? Others may think - competing sounds cool, but it's not for me: I'm not that serious a dancer.

While we understand and appreciate all these concerns, we believe in the value of competitive ballroom; we encourage you to consider the following, and see if we can't sway you a bit!

We know that to some, the word "competition" has a negative connotation. It can be stressful, anxiety inducing, and even destructive. This is precisely why we encourage our students to compete - to develop a sense of healthy competition. Competing provides students with a drive to succeed; they see the fruits of their labor right away, in direct correlation with how much they practice and prepare. It fosters a sense of pride, too: to perform in a dancesport competition - like so many in Boston and around the country - and be cheered on by peers and family is remarkably uplifting. Students also develop a sense of discipline; they find themselves among peers with the same goals and work ethics, and as such, are inspired to work harder and develop their own craft. Often, they share the competition floor with many of their peers from the dance studio, so there is a sense of solidarity and shared experience. In fact, anyone with any ounce of stage fright can take heart - you'll seldom be out on the floor on your own, because chances are other competitors of your level will be out there with you.

As for those who consider competition a "serious" endeavor - or a challenge beyond their reach - keep in mind that dancers can compete at all levels, from beginner to advanced. There is a category for every age, level, and style, so you'll never be out of your league. Dancers are judged within the context of their experience, and judges have seen it all. You have the freedom of deciding how seriously you want to approach it. If advancing means a lot to you, then train hard and go for it. But if you just want to a bit of performance experience, flaunt a great costume, and be cheered on by family and friends, there should be nothing stopping you from having a great time on the competition floor.

In the Boston area alone, there are the Eastern Dancesport Championships, the Yankee Classic, A La Carte, and others. Just beyond that, in New York, there are the Manhattan Amateur Classic and Empire State Dancesport Championships. Ask your teacher about competing, and he or she will gladly help you get into the competition scene!