Finding your dance Whānau (family)
Blog post #2
Discover the heart behind the hustle in our latest blog, “Finding Your Dance Family.” Explore how the bonds formed in the studio go beyond performance—shaping friendships, building resilience, and turning every rehearsal into a moment to remember.
In the whirlwind of competition prep, choreography tweaks, and costume fittings, I’ve noticed something even more powerful quietly unfolding— hononga (connection). As a teacher, it fills me with pride to see that beyond technique and timing, my dancers are building something deeper: a dance whānau. Watching them support each other, laugh together, and grow as a team reminds me why I love doing what I do.
There’s a quiet kind of magic that happens when you find your people in the studio—the ones who speak your language without words. They understand what it means to practice the same eight counts until it clicks. They feel your nerves before you step on stage. And they cheer for your wins like they’re their own.
These are the friends who help pin your hair when time’s tight. The ones who sneak snacks backstage, who give you pep talks, and who wrap you in hugs after a performance—no matter the outcome.
And what’s beautiful is that this connection isn’t taught in class—but it’s learned through the shared journey and mahi (hard work).
The Power of Studio Friendship
At our competition weekends, something really special unfolded—not just technically, but emotionally. We saw younger dancers leaning on older ones. We saw moments where someone was frustrated with a step, and another stepped in to say, “Hey, I’ve got you.”
That’s dance Whānau.
It’s not always about perfect synchronicity. It’s about showing up for each other, in the wings, in the hard moments, in the laughter.
Two of our dancers recently shared:
“Without dance in my life I really don’t know what I would do.”
“Dance keeps me sane and happy and my dance friends really are my best friends. I’m so lucky to have them.”
These words say it all. The studio isn’t just where we train—it’s where we belong.
Beyond the Stage
With the first round of competitions behind us, we now have a small but valuable pause before the next big event later in the year. It’s a chance to reset, reflect, and refocus—not just for the stage, but for everything that lies ahead.
Right now, we’re using this time wisely. It’s not a break from performance, but a shift in focus. We’re diving deeper into technique, refining our artistry, and preparing for upcoming exams, studio performances, and the next wave of creative work.
These in-between moments give us time to grow together—not only as dancers, but as teammates and friends. Because what we build now will carry us forward into every performance, every challenge, and every celebration still to come.
Hold Onto These People
And it’s in these quieter times that we’re reminded of just how special our dance whānau really is.
They’re the ones who’ll celebrate your highs and help you through your lows. They’ll be the reason long rehearsals become favourite memories. These connections are the heart of what we do—and they make the journey so much more meaningful.
Whether you’re a new dancer stepping into the studio for the first time, or a seasoned comp kid getting ready for another round—look around. Your people are here. And they’re cheering for you every step of the way. 💛
27th May 2025