About Lisa Expertise I am able to answer nearly all questions about classical ballet technique, terminology, choreography, staging, history, education, costuming, pointe shoes, ballet slippers, etc. I enjoy answering questions, and can also answer most questions about other types of dance technique,(especially modern and jazz) or other things regarding dance in general. I won't answer questions better left to a medical professional.
Experience I am a former professional dancer, retired due to injury, and have been teaching at the pre-professional level for 15 years. I have staged, choreographed, and directed full-length ballets. My specialty is ballet, although I also teach modern technique (classical & contemporary), lyrical ballet, and jazz. My students have gone on to major in dance and/or dance professionally all over the world, at programs such as Alvin Ailey, Richmond Ballet, School of American Ballet, and American Ballet Theater,to name a few.
Education/Credentials In addition to my professional performance experience and years as a teacher, I also have a minor in Dance, and have attended numerous teaching conventions and workshops. I also research ballet technique and history now for fun!
Question I danced for 11 years and then I quit, I haven't danced in 4 years and i am starting back up. I am 15 now, do you think it is possible for me to get on pointe and maybe be a professional dancer?
Answer Hi Rachel,
it's impossible for me to tell since I've never seen you dance. If you are looking to get back into dance, do it for the enjoyment of it, and whatever happens as a result is fine. With a few years of good training, pointe work may be a possibility, but it should only be attempted with a good teacher and solid technique. Do not rush it or you will regret it, for sure. A question, though. . . if you are 15 now, and danced for 11 years, and have now been off for 4, that means you started dancing from birth? I think perhaps that is not what you meant. Find a good local school with an experienced teacher and enroll in classes. See how it goes, and how you enjoy it, and go from there.
