Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 1/14/2009

Question
Hello! My name's becky and i'm 16 years old. I started ballet 3 years ago on grade two because i was a little old to do pre primary and i have just taken my grade 5 exam and passed with distinction. I am really serious about ballet but i have been looking at summer schools and programmes but it seems no where will take anyone of my age unless they have their major grades. Is there any chance of me finding somewhere like a school that i can train for ballet in? Or am i simply just too old and will have to wait until i'm even older and have my major grades to get into any sort of school or part time course? My teachers seem to think i have a natural ability and loads of potential but it's almost as if i can't show this because i can't get into any serious ballet schools!! Thank you for your time, Becky :)

Answer
Hi Becky. I recommend that you google or otherwise search "summer dance intensives 2009". Lots will show! I just did, and there are many pages.

Look at the sites of ballet schools you could possibly get to. Many of them require an audition, some will accept a DVD instead of a personal audition. But not every one requires "grade x or above". Some will require reference letters, in which case the good opinion of your teachers will come in handy.

Also, do your teachers know what you have in mind? If not, tell them you need help. Sometimes teachers have good connections with bigger schools, or will otherwise help you get in.

All the best! Dianne