Gender bias: Is it alive and well in 2019?

What would you expect the answer to this question to be? Sadly, gender bias, gender inequality, bullying, and stereotyping––all of these are alive and well in ballet and ,indeed, the broader community in 2019.

A recent derisive comment by Good Morning America host Lara Spencer in relation to Prince George’s participation in dance classes drew widespread condemnation. Regardless of the heartfelt and very public apology, Spencer’s comments spotlight the everyday experiences of many aspiring and currently dancing male dancers and, indeed, anyone who does not conform to narrow ideas about masculinity and femininity. It would be very surprising if anyone were to make a similar comment about Princess Charlotte participating in a dance class.

Ironically, due to the strength, flexibility and stamina required to participate in ballet, participants in other sports have been known to call on the skills of ballet techniques to assist them when trying to deal…