ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Western stereotype of the male ballet dancer

Okay kiddo, so you know how when we think of ballet dancers, we usually picture girls in tutus twirling around on their tippy toes? And when we think of boy dancers, we usually picture them playing sports or doing things like playing with trucks and being rough and tough?

Well, some people have a stereotype that says that if a boy likes ballet, then he must not be very manly or tough. They might think that ballet is only for girls and that boys shouldn't like it or be good at it.

This stereotype is unfair and untrue, because boys can be just as good at ballet as girls, and there are many male ballet dancers who are strong, athletic, and talented. It's important to remember that everyone should be allowed to do what they love, regardless of what other people might think.