Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 6/2/2009

Question
So, I took dance for years but stopped at age 10 but I started back this past year, and I'm now 15. My last year at the studio was AMAZING and I LOVE dance with all my heart and have such a passion for the arts. I'm so happy with how much I improved this year and how well I'm doing, I even made a trio for the best 3 girls in the studio this year, just me, 15, and girls 18 and 19.     ANYWAY, my point is, recently I've really started loving classical ballet.... It's so beautiful and such art, but I only get to take one ballet class a week that's an hour long, and an hour long pointe class after that. 2 hours of -ballet- isn't much for a whole week..... (though I do take other classes) it makes me sad.   This summer for 6 weeks at my studio I'll be able to take 3 ballet classes a week, each an hour, with a 45 minute pointe class after 2 of those days each week. And possibly wear my pointe shoes during regular class. I still want to learn as much as I possibly can about ballet and teach myself even...... What would you suggest for improving myself and being the best dancer I can be in my surroundings? Thanks so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! -Elena.

Answer
Hi Elena. You sound like a hard worker looking for more!

As far as teaching yourself goes, there is a good guide I can recommend. It is called The Perfect Pointe Book and you can find the author's link at http://www.theballetstore.com right on the home page.

It is ideal for extra work work because it is written in great detail with photos and video as well. It focuses on strength for pointe work, but also includes the basics of turnout, posture and balance. It will refine your ballet technique marvelously and give you an expert's understanding of the mechanics involved.

You could do all the exercises on the days you don't have class. Always rest completely one day a week, however, and treat your muscles to some relaxed stretching. Watch some ballet DVD's - performances I mean, and expand your knowledge while you enjoy it!

You will also find a lot of technical articles at theballetstore.com in case you want to improve your ballet in any other area.

All the best and have a wonderful summer!