For those who have seen how I vented when I was unable to perform for the first time (during a talent show), you’d probably remember. Otherwise, the post about it titled “How to accept not being accepted into a talent show that you worked hard for” can be found on my profile.
Anyways.
I was supposed to perform for prom this friday and I practised a lot but today the prom organiser told me that there will be no performance segment because they “want everyone to enjoy themselves”, which barely makes sense to me because I would have enjoyed myself if I got a chance to perform. I even told my other performing friend this news.
I’m frustrated and pissed off. Is there a way to cope?
Hi @undying_sun as someone who is a dancer and performer myself, I relate to this so much and my heart goes out to you. Performances require effort and investment of rehearsing and practicing — for the thrill of being on stage! It’s the work put in and the expectation of being able to enjoy that performance that has suddenly disappeared. It sounds so last minute, which is already frustrating, and even more so when it isn’t the first time.
How did you other friends who are performing take it?
About how to cope — it’s normal to feel frustrated and upset. The feelings are real and it’s okay to give space to those feelings in this sucky situation! But when you’re ready, perhaps thinking about what are the ways you get to do what you want to do? If it’s perform and the setting doesn’t matter, what are some avenues to do so? Or if it looks different like being filmed instead? I hope there’s an avenue that works and feels right for you
Hey @undying_sun, I can sense your deep frustration over not given the chance to perform. After all you’ve put in a lot of effort and was looking forward to it, I empathise with your disappointment.
It’s perfectly normal to feel disappointed. One way to cope may be to avoid dwelling on the disappointment. Instead of ruminating on the situation, you could say to yourself “I accept I feel disappointed, but I choose to move on”.
You could try focussing on where you go from here. Now that you have some spare time, use it well! Spend some time with your family and friends, or play your favourite game, or go out on a solo date — whatever you’d like to do! If you’re still looking to perform, go out there and find a platform to perform (could be onstage, or offstage in a dance class!) Don’t let this one setback deny the right for you to do what you enjoy!
I’m inspired by your love and drive to perform I think when one door closes, we can find another door to enter!! sounds like your school environment somehow doesn’t work out for you twice so far (at least from what you’re shared), then finding the right space and audience elsewhere might help you fulfill what you hope to do!!! If you keep building yourself up for performance and keep sourcing for opportunities to perform, I’m sure the journey will be fulfilling for you, even if there may be rejections and challenges along the way!! Feels like that’s part of the life of a performer haha
I think when one door closes, we can find another door to enter!! 
sounds like your school environment somehow doesn’t work out for you twice so far (at least from what you’re shared), then finding the right space and audience elsewhere might help you fulfill what you hope to do!!! If you keep building yourself up for performance and keep sourcing for opportunities to perform, I’m sure the journey will be fulfilling for you, even if there may be rejections and challenges along the way!! Feels like that’s part of the life of a performer haha