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 am 12 and have ben dancing since i was 4. I am at a intermediate advanced
ballet level on flat. in other words i am at a 5 out of 6 level. one of my friends
in ballet is one year older than me, is at a lower level than me , and has not
been dancing as long as me but she is going on point i think i am ready for
point. but a teacher has not said anything about that yet. should i talk to a
teacher about going on point or just wait.
-tish
Answer Hi Tish,
I don't see a problem with you approaching your teacher and asking him or her what you need to work on to get to your goal of pointe work. Most likely there are reasons you have not been put on pointe yet, and asking your teacher's opinion may clear it up for you and give you some goals to work towards. Try not to compare yourself to others, although I know it's difficult. The decision to put a student on pointe is a very individual one that should be made with great care. Speak with your teacher privately for some pointers. Then he or she will know you are serious, and you will have an idea of what you need to improve on. Good luck!
