Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 6/29/2009

Question
I have had a break from ballet class for a number of years. I have always had a passion for ballet and it still is my goal to teach someday soon. I have now enrolled for the Grade 8 examination with te RAD and have found myself a teacher who is willing to teach the syllabus to me. Unfortunately there are currently no classes available in my area. The only way I can learn the syllabus is by attending a once a week half an hour session privately with this teacher ( this is all I can afford)and practice on my own the rest of the time. My question is this: Is it possible to pass the Grade 8 examination (in Oct) with this amount of training. I have a ballet background but have found that I have always had to work harder than the rest of the girls to get an acceptible technique. After a break of a good number of years is it possible to regain good technique? I am now 40 years old.
Also, I am not as thin as I used to be. Would you recommend that I lose weight? I have heard that it is easier to jump, turn and execute certain movements if you are a lighter weight. I am 167 cm tall and weigh 52 kgs.

Answer
Hi Ann.Check the website for RAD, the link is below. Contact them at their 'contact' address, and find out the criteria for you testing as a  teacher, rather than a dancer. I think there are different standards for what you need to do physically, and what you need to explain about the combinations, as a teacher. Unless that has changed.

You could also contact the school which sends out the examiner to your area and ask them.

Since I can't see you dance, I don't know what your chances are. I see that there are some DVD's available also, so see if there is one for Gr. 8.

Ballet is definitely easier if you are thinner. I suggest that you read "Protein Power" by the MD team Eades and Eades. I'm sure it's in your local library. It is a healthy way to lose weight.

http://www.rad.org.uk/index2.htm

http://www.balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com is a blog of mine where you will find many articles on ballet technique, that may help you with your ballet technique.

All the best, Dianne