As of late, the number of online articles discussing the sexification of dance has increased. While this increase points to this being a new issue, here at Applause Performing Arts we have tried to tackle this issue from our inception in 2008. In fact, it is one of our main studio values.

Our studio is proud to say we provide a safe, family-friendly environment. In order to provide this environment, we have certain policies:

• No Midriff policy on costumes and uniforms
• Music and themes are to be age appropriate
• Choreography should contain no sexualized moves
• Children should wear costumes which keep them looking like children.

I am a mum of two girls and one boy; I want my children to be dressed appropriately, and feel confident in what they wear in class and on stage. Unfortunately, I have memories of wearing certain costumes that made me uncomfortable on stage. As a studio owner, I go the extra mile to ensure my students never have to experience that discomfort.

For our most recent exams with the Austrailian Teachers of Dancing (ATOD), students were required to wear stockings and leotards with the option of wearing skirts and shorts over the top. We decided to purchase the optional chiffon ballet skirts and short black shorts for all our examination students and let them borrow them for the day at no extra cost. We wanted our students to look uniform, but also feel comfortable during their exams.

This is just one of the ways we are different at Applause Performing Arts and why so many families are making the switch to dance for Applause Performing Arts!