Identifying Knowledge

Identifying Knowledge

As I embark on Module 2 it is important to understand and map out what I already know. This course is very practice-based and as discovered in Module 1 experience is knowledge. Although I am a professional ballet dancer I am also freelancing. This means I teach numerous dance styles alongside as well as pursuing a career in acting, modelling and beauty related media content creation. As I am working in a variety of genres my professional practice is most certainly transdisciplinary.

Action has meaning and creates knowledge it cannot be limited to words, text and linear thoughts. Prior to selecting my inquiry topic, I am identifying my practice similar to my work in module 1 in order to ensure my inquiry benefits my practice. To expand my thoughts, I asked myself the following questions;

What do you know?

·      I have knowledge of the correct technique of classical ballet

·      I have knowledge of technique of many other dance styles

·      I have knowledge and awareness when working with a partner (pas de deux) and also in groups (corps de ballet)

·      I know how to train independently in my own time in order to stay in shape

·      I am willing to be directed by a superior and even fellow company members and almost feel more comfortable when instructed to do so

·      I work well as a team and enjoy the presence of working with others

·      I know that when I am in a positive frame of mind my dancing is much more energetic and generally better

·      I also have a sense of justice and an opinion on matters that are inequitable

What are my competences?

·      Advanced classical technique

·      Performing on numerous stages all over the world

·      The ability to adapt to different stages and situations that may occur when touring

·      Choreographing in numerous styles of dance such as classical ballet, contemporary and jazz

·      Working with others

·      Makeup application

·      Content creation (filming YouTube videos and taking photos)

·      Teaching masterclasses and workshops to a wide age range of children and adults and sharing my professional experience with them 

What are my capabilities?

·      Performing in a classical ballet company

·      Challenging myself in company class, allowing the idea of risk taking and the acceptance of imperfection

·      Promoting myself and my work on social media

·      Teaching a wide age range of students from children to adults with varying abilities

·      Teaching with authority and a standard of expectations

·      Having more confidence in my independent abilities which shape my professional practice. Understanding I am more than just a ballet dancer.

·      Choreographing my own classical ballet pieces and other dance styles and adapting my choreography to the ability of the students

Knowledge still required for the future

·      I need to learn to pick up choreography quicker especially during neoclassical works. It is important to get over the idea that it is unusual or out of the ordinary and accept the choreography. The sooner I am able to get comfortable with the choreography and style of the piece the quicker I’ll be able to learn and become performance ready.

·      I need to learn to accept where I fall short and not let these thoughts hold back my progression. Instead I must use this knowledge as motivation to train harder.

·      I need to learn to trust myself and my capabilities, this will help me in competitive environments such as auditions.

·      I have discovered since branching out my talents in other ways such a teaching masterclasses, content creation and social media work I must be more assured when stating my talents instead of waiting for the assurance/validation from others.

·      I need to learn how to balance my work load and when enough is enough. Instead of filling up my diary with as much as possible I need to balance out my work in order to avoid burn out and allow me to remain enjoying what I do.

·      I need accept that sometimes it is ok to say no.

·      I need to develop a more relaxed and grounded style during contemporary / more commercial work.

Taking all of this information on board, these questions have helped me to discover what I need to develop in order to advance successfully in my professional practice. They have also helped me dig deeper into myself, learning my goals and future aims. I would be interested if any other recent graduates have had this need for validation of others. It almost feels strange to me when stating my talents to potential employers or even just on social media posts is this normal at first? Or am I being too cautious?