Expert: Connie - 8/25/2009

Question
Hi! I really would like to be a pro ballerina, but I don't have the tools I need for it. I asked my parents about sending me to a ballet school with professional trainers, but they said no. I explained about scholarships, but they still said I should just continue with my local once-a-week training. I'm very determined though. I still have four years left of training at my local ballet class. If I go to a college and major in dance then do you think I could still have a chance at becoming a pro? Do ballet companies care about where you danced as a kid and just care whether you're a good dancer? Or do they look for experience with professional trainers and not local ballet teachers? Sorry if this is confusing. Thanks for reading. :]

Answer
Ballet companies don't care about your training; they care about your dancing!  If you have solid technique, they'll like you.  College can help with this, but if you're serious, it's imperative to get good training NOW.  You'll need to be dancing more than once a week if you're planning on becoming a pro.  Have you told your parents just how determined you are?  It will take a lot of time and effort to become a professional, but if you can find good training and work hard, it's within reach.  You could also talk to the teacher you have now about your options and what he/she thinks you should do.  Best of luck!