What Traditional Conventions Are Missing—and How We're Different
For decades, the traditional dance convention model has looked the same: competitive, fast-paced, status-driven, and often transactional. While there's undeniable value in tradition, many conventions have become caught in a cycle of replication—missing the deeper needs of today's dancers, educators, and families. At SOUL DE SOUL, we asked ourselves: What would happen if we built a convention not based on the status quo, but on soul?
We didn't want to add just another name to the list—we wanted to create a movement.
This blog dives into what we believe is missing in the traditional model and how SOUL DE SOUL was born to be a bold, values-driven alternative. Because the dance world doesn’t need more noise—it needs more meaning.
What’s Missing in the Traditional Model
1. Heart-First Connection
Many conventions focus on what dancers do: the tricks, the combos, the scores. But what about who dancers are becoming in the process? Where is the human connection, the mentorship, the space to breathe? Traditional events often miss the mark when it comes to cultivating emotional intelligence, confidence, and identity in young artists. Dance becomes performance-only, not a practice of embodiment or soul.
2. Space to Be Seen (Without Being Ranked)
In a world of trophies and numbers, it’s easy for dancers to tie their worth to placement. Traditional systems reinforce this, often unintentionally sending the message that the higher the score, the higher the value. This fosters pressure, burnout, and perfectionism. But we believe dancers deserve to be seen just as they are—not for how clean their routine is, but for how fully they show up. You don't need to earn visibility at SOUL DE SOUL—you already matter.
3. True Community and Support
Conventions often become silos of “studio vs. studio.” There’s little incentive to collaborate, celebrate each other, or even connect. The atmosphere becomes competitive instead of communal. But dancers crave connection. They want to feel part of something. Traditional systems too often isolate—whereas we gather to remind you: you’re not alone on your path.
4. Diverse Representation & Voices
Representation is still lacking in many spaces. From faculty to content, traditional conventions often reflect a narrow view of the dance world. SOUL DE SOUL centers voices from across the industry—educators, healers, creators, and dancers of all backgrounds. We aren’t here to repeat what's already been done—we’re here to rewrite the story with more inclusion, nuance, and care.
5. Intentionality Behind the Experience
Many events prioritize volume over value: more classes, more routines, more awards. But more isn't always better. Traditional models often leave dancers overstimulated and emotionally exhausted. At SOUL DE SOUL, we move with intention—every moment is curated to support the full dancer, not just the competitive one. From morning wellness offerings to conscious scheduling, we honor the nervous system, the spirit, and the soul.
How We're Different
💫 We Lead with Soul, Not Ego
We’re not trying to be trendy—we’re trying to be the most aligned. Every decision we make is rooted in our values, not in trends. We're building a culture of authenticity, compassion, and depth in an industry often obsessed with the external.
🌱 We Prioritize the Whole Human
Mental health, rest, expression, safety, self-worth—these matter as much as technique and timing. Our programming invites dancers to explore not just how they move, but why they move. We create space for journaling, grounding, reflection, and discussion—because art is more than steps. It’s story.
🌍 We Champion Sustainability + Conscious Practices
We are proud to be implementing a Green Initiative that reduces waste, limits single-use materials, and models conscious event design. Because how we show up on this planet matters. Dancers are the next generation of leaders, and we want to model responsibility and care through every detail.
🤝 We Build Real Relationships
Our faculty isn’t just here to teach and leave—they’re here to connect. To mentor. To sit on the floor with dancers and listen. We’re not interested in untouchable “celebrity culture”—we’re here to co-create a movement where everyone belongs.
🧘♀️ We Honor the Body + the Nervous System
We believe in creating sustainable dancers, not just strong ones. That’s why we intentionally build Soul Breaks into the schedule—time carved out between classes for dancers to eat, hydrate, go to the bathroom, or rest without the pressure of missing out.
There’s no scrambling back in fear of losing choreography or judgment for stepping out. Our culture reinforces that your body comes first. Rest is not a reward—it’s a requirement.
We care more about whole humans than perfection.
📵 We don’t just talk about dancer safety—it’s our standard.
At SOUL DE SOUL, our faculty, staff, and team members are required to adhere to strict social media guidelines. Communication happens in public forums, monitored channels, or through appropriate parent or studio liaisons. We prioritize safety, accountability, and trust—on and offline.
The SDS team undergoes DEEA (Dance Education & Equity Association) “BE COURAGEOUS” training, helping us foster inclusive environments that celebrate the richness of every identity, background, and experience. We don’t just welcome diversity—we actively create spaces where it can thrive.
We invite you to join us on this journey. Stay connected with us by subscribing to our newsletter, following us on social media, or attending one of our events.
with magic,
Mackenzie Martin
FOUNDER & CEO