Professional Dancers Advocating for Body Inclusivity
Professional Dancers Advocating for Body Inclusivity Shondaland 2/17/2021 Valentina Valentini © Colleen Werner Classic dance has always marginalized big bodies, but these barre-blazers are creating their own space. Two Christmases ago, at a Nutcracker performance in western Massachusetts, a ballerina stepped onto the stage in preparation for her solo. She had all the makings of a company ballet dancer — tutu, hair in a bun, confidence, gorgeous technique, and fierce stage presence. What she didn’t have was a skinny body, long legs, or tiny chest. This is what a balle...