Shimmying Through Satan's Asscrack - How Dancers Handle the Heat

Because I am dumb and masochistic I run long distances very slowly for my mental and physical health, so a sizeable percentage of my brain energy is devoted to fretting about the temperature and how it will make me feel.    Right now, the Midwest of the United States is in an extended, excessive heat wave–the kinds where eggs fry on sidewalks and walking outside to get the mail feels like an express trip through Satan’s buttcrack.  It’s rough out there, and even if you don’t slog down trails in 95 degree heat, chances are you’re feeling the heat when you’re rehearsing or performing as a dancer.  Navigating safely through summer temperature, humidity, sunlight, and all of those fun meteorological details matters just as much (if not more!) for belly dancers as we consider everything from costuming, set lists, green room supplies, and general safety for ourselves and our dance friends. 

Here are some tips for making summer dance manageable: 

1. Drink water early, drink water often. 

The most critical step in preventing heat exhaustion is staying hydrated. Don’t wait until you're thirsty—by then, dehydration may already be setting in. Begin hydrating several hours (if not days) before dancing and continue sipping water throughout rehearsal or performance. Electrolyte drinks (like coconut water or sports drinks) can also help replace lost sodium and potassium, especially if you're sweating heavily.

And I know you know, but iced coffee does not count as water.  Put it down.  Find a Stanley.  Fill ‘er up. 

2. Change Up Your Costuming and Makeup for Summer

The dog days of summer are not the best time to break out your double layered 25 yard skirts or your leather mermaid skirt or a 10 lb. headdress.   This time of year calls for light, cotton fabrics that can be layered and removed as needed.  Consider swapping out big skirts for breathable pantaloons, remember that jewelry in direct sunlight can get hot and painful quickly, and practice applying and maintaining your full face in heat and humidity.  Sometimes I’ll test out new makeup while doing yard work.  If it stays through all the sweat and movement, it’ll likely be fine for an outdoor stage. 

3. Take More Frequent Breaks and Know When to Stop

Your body needs time to recover in the heat. Build in more frequent breaks during hot weather to cool down, catch your breath, and rehydrate. Step into the shade or an air-conditioned space when possible—even a few minutes away from the heat can make a big difference.   If your performance venue is outside, ask for a shaded area or open tent for performers to rest and hydrate between their sets.  

It’s also okay to stop or refuse a performance if safety is a concern!  I once rolled up to a performance that was supposed to be on a raised, covered stage but ended up being set in a treeless parking lot on a hill.  I didn’t let my troupe perform that afternoon because I knew it would be dangerous.  While I worried about the backlash for backing out, I found out later that other performers followed our lead and it lead to changes at that festival for performers the following year.  Be an advocate for yourself and your fellow dancers!  We deserve safe spaces to perform and to prepare or rest. 

4. Cool Down Properly

Whether you’re doing a full weekend at a RenFest or you’re rehearsing hard in a studio that’s hard to keep cool, make sure to cool yourself down gradually after exertion.  Try to avoid blasting A/C or cool showers immediately after you’ve been out in the heat (unless you’re experiencing signs of heat exhaustion), find some shade, and sip a cool drink until your body starts feeling normal again.   Make sure to still stretch, foam roll, and do your usual post-performance self-care even if everything feels loose and warm.  And again: hydrate, hydrate, hydrate to recover from the work. 

Dancing in the heat doesn’t have to be dangerous—as long as you listen to your body and take proactive steps to stay cool, hydrated, and rested.  Whether you spend your summers in your coffin waiting for Spooky Season or you’re working your big Leo energy at all the festivals and gatherings, make sure to take care of yourself and advocate for reasonable conditions at your performances and rehearsals.  Stay safe out there, Stygians; we’re only two months away from fall!