When Men Dance: Choreographing Masculinities Across Borders

In a world where gender roles are often rigidly defined, men's dance practices can be a powerful force for change. By challenging dominant notions of masculinity, men's dance can open up new possibilities for self-expression, empowerment, and connection.

When Men Dance: Choreographing Masculinities Across Borders

by Pierre Longuenesse

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5146 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	432 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	43 pages
Item Weight	:	3.36 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.11 x 9 inches

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This article explores the ways in which men's dance practices negotiate and challenge dominant notions of masculinity. Drawing on research from around the world, the article shows how men's dance can be a site of resistance, empowerment, and self-expression.

Men's Dance and the Challenge to Dominant Masculinity

Traditional notions of masculinity often emphasize strength, aggression, and stoicism. These qualities are often seen as incompatible with dance, which is often seen as a feminine activity. As a result, men who dance are often seen as challenging or transgressing gender norms.

This challenge to dominant masculinity can be seen in a variety of men's dance practices. For example, in some cultures, men's dance is characterized by its flamboyance and androgyny. In other cultures, men's dance is used as a form of ritual combat, where men compete for status and dominance.

Regardless of its specific form, men's dance can be a powerful force for challenging dominant notions of masculinity. By presenting alternative ways of being a man, men's dance can help to break down stereotypes and create a more inclusive society.

Men's Dance as a Site of Resistance

In many cultures, men's dance has been used as a form of resistance to oppression. For example, in the United States, African American men used dance to express their resilience and defiance in the face of slavery and racism.

Similarly, in many indigenous cultures, men's dance is used as a way to connect with the spirit world and to assert cultural identity. In these contexts, men's dance is a powerful tool for resistance against assimilation and colonization.

Men's dance can also be a site of resistance against homophobia and transphobia. By embracing their femininity and challenging traditional gender roles, men who dance can help to create a more inclusive and accepting society.

Men's Dance as a Form of Empowerment

In addition to being a site of resistance, men's dance can also be a form of empowerment. By learning to express themselves through dance, men can gain a sense of confidence and self-esteem.

This empowerment can be particularly important for men who have been marginalized or oppressed. For example, men who have experienced trauma or violence can find healing and empowerment through dance.

Men's dance can also be a form of empowerment for men who are struggling with body image issues. By learning to accept and appreciate their bodies, men who dance can gain a sense of body positivity.

Men's Dance as a Form of Self-Expression

Finally, men's dance can also be a form of self-expression. Through dance, men can explore their own identities and express their unique voices.

This self-expression can be particularly important for men who feel like they have to conform to traditional gender roles. Through dance, men can explore their own creativity and individuality.

Men's dance is a powerful and diverse form of expression that can challenge dominant notions of masculinity, empower men, and provide a space for self-expression. By embracing men's dance, we can create a more inclusive and just society.

When Men Dance: Choreographing Masculinities Across Borders

by Pierre Longuenesse

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5146 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	432 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	43 pages
Item Weight	:	3.36 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.11 x 9 inches

FREE