I need some opinions on a matter

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JOKA_ said:

quigontcb said:

"I guess I'm just old fashioned and don't like seeing an emotional connection/relationship like that with someone else."

I'm no performer, but I certainly would not assume that there is an emotional connection between two dance partners. There is obviously a relationship, a professional one. Yeah, we've all heard about relationships between performers springing up, but I'd bet it's about as likely to happen between performers as it is between just about any other type of co-workers where there is a healthy mix of the genders.

As with any relationship, keep your eyes open and your feet on the ground, but don't let your natural jealous/protective instincts get in the way of something that could be good. Love is a gift, enjoy it.

BOLD: I do realize this, and completely agree.  Thats the kind of thing I remind myself of.

Italics: Its more about me sitting in the audience while my girlfriend pretty much swoons and fall into the arms (literally) for the guy on stage.  I know its not real but its definitely a strange thing to have to sit back and watch happen.

 

It is strange to see, especially for a couple, I'd imagine. My sister danced for years and was involved in many shows with professional ballet dancers, and I have to tell you that among dancers, there is only camaraderie. There is a sense of family, built from backstage experiences and from simply knowing one another (do you know how long some dancers have to wait between scenes and the curtain call?)

Dancers must create a believable relationship onstage. Movements often have to be exaggerated when compared to normal, everyday conversation or screenacting. So what you see onstage is most likely just your girlfriend and the male lead dancer trying to establish a dynamic onstage so that their movements flow, if that makes sense. Because they are trying to transfer their emotions onto the audience, it is required.

Of course, it's a natural impulse for you to feel jealousy, stemming from your emotional connections with your girlfriend (as someone else has already pointed out). Certainly don't fault your girlfriend, though. She's only doing what is required for success.

Have you told your girlfriend about your concerns? From what I can tell in your description, you two respect each other deeply, so I would assume that you would go to her with any concerns, and that she would call you out if she noticed anything?

r505Matt's opinion and advice is pretty much right on the money as far as ballet relationships go. Very few dancers end up in relationships with each other.