What We Learned During Covid As A Dance Studio

Covid was a global pandemic that affected every individual. As a dance studio, we definitely felt the effects and aftermath of this anxiety ridden time period as we shifted all our classes online. One main thing we realized and felt during Covid was that learning dance is such an in person experience. This doesn't mean you can't learn dance online. For instance, we have dance tutorials available for those getting ready for their weddings and have family/friends all over the country. This is preparation for one day. But if you're looking to develop skills and confidence through a dance journey, the in person experience is almost a must. 

The abrupt shift from in-person to online dance classes during the COVID-19 pandemic brought forth numerous challenges for both students and instructors, fundamentally altering the dynamics of the learning experience and personal growth within the dance community.

1. Loss of Physical Presence: One of the most significant drawbacks of online bollywood dance classes was the loss of physical presence. In a traditional dance studio, instructors can provide immediate feedback by observing a student's movements up close. The absence of this direct physical interaction in virtual classes posed challenges in addressing individual nuances and refining techniques, potentially hindering students' progress.

2. Limited Space, Limited Expression: Bollywood Dance is an art form that often requires ample space for expression. Students accustomed to expansive studios suddenly found themselves confined to the dimensions of their homes. This limitation not only impacted the execution of choreography but also restricted the freedom of movement, hindering the ability to fully embody the spirit of this energetic dance style.

3. Technological Hurdles: For some students, adapting to virtual platforms was a steep learning curve. Technical issues, such as poor internet connectivity or hardware limitations, became barriers to seamless participation. The frustration of dealing with these challenges added an unexpected layer of stress, disrupting the flow of the learning process.

4. Loss of Community and Motivation: This was a big one for us. Our bollywood dance studio is not just spaces for learning; we are vibrant community that foster camaraderie among students and instructors. The shift to online classes disrupted this sense of community, making it challenging for students to connect with their peers and instructors on a personal level. The absence of shared energy and encouragement affected motivation, as the mutual support derived from in-person classes was replaced by virtual interactions.

Anecdotes and Testimonials: Voices from the Dance Floor

Student Perspective: "I missed the energy of the studio—the feeling of being surrounded by fellow dancers, the music echoing off the walls. It's hard to replicate that at home. Plus, the struggle with technology was real—I once froze mid-leap, and it felt like I was dancing in slow motion!"

Instructor Reflection: "As an instructor, it was tough not being able to physically guide my students. I had to rely on verbal cues and demonstrations through a screen. It was a different kind of challenge—one that tested my creativity and adaptability as an educator."

Shared Frustrations: "Online classes were a lifeline, but they couldn't replace the joy of dancing together. We missed the little moments—the laughter, the shared victories, even the occasional missteps. Dancing alone in a room just isn't the same."

In navigating the online dilemma, both students and instructors demonstrated resilience, adapting to the circumstances while acknowledging the irreplaceable aspects of in-person dance education. The silver lining in all this was the gratitude we shared when we finally emerged from our homes and transitioned back to in person dance classes. This community and energy is not something we can ever take for granted.