Erik Barker is a 15-year-old dancer from Minnesota. He dances at Studio 4.

“I want to show all the little boys that we can dance too! …everyone at my studio made me feel so welcomed and I want other boys to see a male dancer and think ‘wow I can do that too.’”

Tell us about your dance experience!

When I was younger, I was in competition gymnastics for five years. Then eventually, I wanted more. I started dance at the age of 10 and was always playing catch up and my love for dance put me ahead. It was hard being the only boy dancer in my middle school. Most people thought I was weird, but I didn’t listen and now that I’m a tenth grader I realized it doesn’t matter what people think of you, you have to do what’s best for you!

How does dance have a positive impact on your life?

Throughout middle school, I got teased for being a boy dancer, and honestly, it would make me feel horrible, but when I got in the studio, I felt like a new person. Dance is therapeutic for me it’s always been something I do when I’m angry, confused, or even when I’m at the store. Dance has been one of the biggest joys in my life and I can’t imagine my life without it.

How do you want to use dance to have a positive impact on your community?

I want to show all the little boys that we can dance too! Being the only boy in my classes made me feel weird at first but everyone at my studio made me feel so welcomed and I want other boys to see a male dancer and think “wow I can do that too” it would be an amazing opportunity!

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Showstopper Magazine Online is a site for teens to get connected, inspired, and creative! We are always talking about the latest trends in lifestyle, beauty, fashion, music, and of course, dance! We were founded by the creatives at Showstopper, America’s #1 Dance Competition, as another way we hope to add a little sparkle to your day!