Attracting and Including Boys at Your Dance Studio

Attracting boys to your studio is a great way to recruit new students and offer dance to a group that might not otherwise try it. Boys love to move as much as any other kids! They are often interested in trying dance, but are intimidated by the studios in their area. There are some simple ways you can make your studio or dance classes more appealing to boys.

First, you'll want to make sure everyone in your community knows that boys are welcome at your studio. That means including boys in your advertising and promotion. Brochures and newspaper ads can include photos of boys of all ages dancing and will show potential new students they will fit in. Don't forget photos on your website too.

The next impression comes from your studio. If your studio is all pink and only has pictures of ballerinas on the walls, boys may not see a place for themselves there. But if you include posters and pictures of famous male dancers, boys that have previously danced with you or even posters from recent TV appearances of male dancers (Emmitt Smith from Dancing with the Stars or other athletes), you provide a better environment for aspiring dancers.

Getting through the door isn't always going to result in a sign-up though. You'll want to have classes that boys are interested in. A variety of classes, including hip hop, stage combat, boys only ballet, rhythm tap, etc., interest boys. If a dancer shows interest in pursing dance more seriously, then you can stress the importance of proper technique and ballet training.

If possible, offering classes taught by a male staff member is extremely inspiring to boys. If you don't have a regular male faculty member, you can always offer occasional master classes and guest teachers. And take advantage of dance conventions and workshops near you with male instructors.

To help boys feel more comfortable in class consider offering a relaxed dress code policy. Boys are often put off by the idea of wearing tights and may prefer to wear shorts or sweat pants. And while you're at it, assure them that any performances they might be involved in would have masculine costumes.

You may also want to plan class and performance choreography to accommodate the boys. A lot of dance choreography is feminine and can put the boys off. Including moves that showcase their strength and athletic ability are a good idea. As they are able, include lifts and partnering moves with the girls. During class you can even including strength exercises such as push-ups, ab work and power squats.

Some other methods that have worked for other studios including having an on-site weight room, offering a father-son class and contacting local sports teams and inviting them to class.

Including boys in your student populations is important and simple to do if you are aware of their interests. Good luck!