This Anti-Bullying Music Video Is Giving Us #AllTheFeels

November 2, 2017

I’m definitely not the first to acknowledge that the dance world hasn’t always been the friendliest place for those whose bodies are “too [insert normal, healthy body descriptor here].” For me, it was always “too tall,” (hi, I’m over 5’10”) but every single one of my fellow dancer friends can think of way too many times when they were directly told or indirectly made to feel that they were “too short,” “too big,” “too small,” etc. to dance.

That’s why it’s so refreshing—and necessary!—when dancers themselves call out the unrealistic and exclusive beauty standards that too often leave people feeling left out of the dance community. That’s exactly what this gorgeous, touching video for the song “Dancing With U” accomplishes.

Starring viral sensation Erik Cavanaugh, the clip to Marc Richter’s song tells the story of a young boy facing difficult life circumstances who finds joy in dance, thanks to the help of an encouraging classmate. When the boy grows up, he discovers that insecurities and narrowmindedness mean that dance isn’t always a safe place for everyone. I won’t spoil what happens next, but rest assured that you’ll leave on a deeply moved, completely inspired note.