Explore some of the top moments in a dancers life

Being a dancer is—say it with us—HARD. WORK. No matter whether its ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop or any other style. Imagine ours and hours of work for a tiny bit of progress? It's no joke. But if you've stuck with it, you know that those magical breakthrough moments make it all just worth it.

Read on for some of the top 10 best moments, large or small, in almost every dancers' daily life.

Nailing an extra pirouette

One turn...two...three...and the audience (real or imagined) goes wild! Sometimes, you're just on your leg like that. Enjoy it while it lasts!

Finally getting into your dream summer intensive

Being accepted to your dream summer intensive is the best kind of validation. You never gave up and now what you’ve worked so hard for is happening.

Being asked to demonstrate in a class

Executing a dance move well is a reward in itself, but doing so when your teacher is actually looking is even more of a miracle. Add on getting asked to repeat the move to show a class how is done, and you've got the perfect dance moment trifecta!

Landing your dream role

After all that hard work, being accepted to dance for your favorite artist, TV show or performance is a dream come true for almost any dancer. Seeing your name next to your favorite role is bound to make you dance down the hallways for at least the next few days.

Applying a correction before you're told

When "engage your core" is all you hear from your teacher for months, and then one fine morning you realize you're engaging your core without being told? There's nothing like it.

Realizing that things are (finally) getting easier

The first time you go through your eight-minute production number without feeling like you're going to pass out is straight-up priceless.

Holding a balance/position longer than you thought possible

Accomplishing dance moves you thought were almost impossible can be priceless. You’ll practically float in the clouds from being so pulled up and centered on your balance! Have you ever seen a child ride a bike without training wheels for the first time? Yep, same feeling...

Receiving compliments from your peers

It’s one thing to get praise from your non-dancer friends and family (that’s a given), but when others at your studio or other dancers at performance or competitions take the time to encourage and compliment you, you know you’re doing something right. Keep it up!

Stepping onstage for a solo the first time this season...

Have a solo? It's finally your time in the spotlight!

...and crushing that choreography like never before.

You're hitting every count, turn, balance or whatever move you’ve worked so hard on and basking in the cheers of the audience. Now that’s what we call LIVING.