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!
Expert: Lisa Date: 6/25/2008 Subject: Pointe Shoes
Question QUESTION: Hi,
I am a starting pointe on Wednesday, so I went out and bought some shoes. I got fitted and all that. The lady that was fitting me really like the capezio ones on me, but I thought they were too small... because I feel like my big toe is really pushed in. To me it feels like I have a really small tennis shoes, one two sizes down. She kept telling me that I need to take the pain, but I am still questioning them... is it okay if they feel like my big toe is pushed in or do I need to go back to try on more shoes? Thanks.
ANSWER: Hi Natalia,
Pointe shoes very often feel uncomfortable to dancers when they first begin. A pointe shoe does not fit like a regular shoe and should in fact fit very close to the foot with no room to grow. However, you shouldn't be in pain just standing on flat fee with them. The woman who fit you likely knows what she is doing, but she cannot see inside the shoe what is going on with your foot. As I said, it should be quite snug, especially compared to a tennis shoe, but your toes should not be jammed up inside. You should be able to feel the end and sides of the shoe with your toes, but your toes should be able to lie flat inside the shoe, not be bunched up on top of one another. As you begin your pointe work, and when you go to get your 2nd pair of shoes, you will be a bit more comfortable and familiar with what the shoe should feel like, and you'll be able to tell more what you want in the shoe. I hope this helps! Good luck to you with your pointe work.
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QUESTION: Thank you so much for your reply, you totally helped me out! I just have one more question...
I have really weak ankles, especially, my left foot. What kind of stretches can I do for ankle strength?
Thanks.
Answer Hi Natalia,
if your teacher feels you are ready to begin pointe work, then the actual work of pointe class will help you to strengthen your ankles. It is important to begin slowly and with your teacher's guidance, so resist the temptation to try things on your own your teacher has not introduced in class yet. Do lots and lots of plie releves and ankle circles, work on pointing and flexing over and over again. Ankle strength will build, but as with most things in ballet, the improvements will not be overnight. Good luck to you!
