20/03/2020
Dear Dance Parent,
I’m a past studio owner, current Performing Arts Teacher, Business Owner and also a Dance Mum. I have a rare insight into all sides: the Dance Studio Owner, the Dance Mum and the Dance teacher.
In this time of uncertainty, the Performing Arts and Dance World needs the support from their dance families. I have seen Studio owners, teachers working long after their studio shuts to stay abreast with the many challenges the last fortnight has presented.
On our Kidz in the Biz page in 2016 we shared created a post called “From a Dance Parent” written by Author S Martin. It beautifully articulates why we spend money on dance. This post has been viewed over 1 million times with 251 K shares and 278k likes. The Article resonates with parents and care givers around the world as it talks of paying for not just for dance but for opportunities to make life long friendships, understand commitment, learn discipline, be part of a team as well as so many other benefits of our dance and performing arts community.
Today changes will make it almost impossible for studios to continue the way we know.
Be Kind:
Your studio owners have already worked a full day before their evening classes commence for afternoon class. They have undertaken New Government accreditation on management of COVID-19, cleaned and sanitized Barres, Mirrors and Toilets, taken 20 calls with parents with queries about safety measures they are adopting. They will teach until late in evening and come back to 20 emails from parents wanting fee reductions amongst other things.
Be Understanding:
We have watched governments and Large Organisations stumble on how to manage the last fortnight. Your studio owner is the same person so many connected and tagged messages for in the “From a Dance Parent” excerpt . These times aren’t forever they are just for now. Supporting each other will be for the benefit of everyone.
Be Open:
To a longer holiday break if you can and let them keep the term fees so your child has their dance home when normality resumes)
Studio owners have been liasing ,communicating both nationally and internationally to give students the best possible online options –rather than cancelling classes, give it a go!
Be Loving:
Studio Owners often “run” families too. They often don’t share this however it’s tough being a dance teacher and a mum. They care for their students as their own. Today’s changes will be just as heart breaking for them as your little person. Send a quick message or email to show your support – Hey Miss B, You’ve got this … Hi Mr M, We are on break due to the craziness but we cant wait till troupe season. Silence creates so much anxiety for owners who are truly invested and connected to your child.
Studio owners love what they do and often make less than teachers in the industry.
Lets support them however we can and keep our Dance and Performing Arts community strong!
Author
Melanie Noble-Murray
Melanie Noble Singing & Performance Coaching
Positive Dance Mum
Former co-owner of Kidz in the Biz Performing Arts Studio
