Expert: Connie - 5/8/2010

Question
I’m 24 and I have no dance experience whatsoever, is it unrealistic for me to think I could be a decent ballerina? I have gone to a few beginner classes but I don’t feel like I am doing as well as I could with private instruction. I am 5’4” 125 pounds, not terribly flexible, have poor turnout, and am semi flat-footed. I know I may never be able to dance en pointe, or if ever I do its years away. Can you recommend any schools in Tucson that would be of help? I have tried 2, and am now considering private instruction (just to learn the fundamentals). I feel if I don’t learn the proper technique my time and money will be wasted. I also had ACL reconstructive surgery last year, I am not sure if that will be a problem at some point. I’m not looking to be a professional, just work towards being decent, I know its going to take sacrifice and commitment, I just want to know if its worth it at this point in my life. I come for a competitive soccer and cross country background, so its not the training that I am worried about, It’s if anyone would be will to teach me since its seemingly unheard of for someone to start a career in dancing past the age of 20.

Answer
It definitely is difficult to have a professional dancing job when you start late, but becoming a good dancer is still completely possible!  The first step is, as you have discovered, to find good training.  Ballet Tucson's Ballet Arts School (http://www.ballettucson.org/detail/school/ballet_arts_school) seems to be accredited and would offer decent training.  There is even a teen/adult division.  You will be very confused at first, but the more you attend class and pay attention, the easier all the terminology will become.  I would look into getting the book Basic Principles of Classical Ballet (http://www.amazon.com/Principles-Classical-Ballet-Agrippina-Vaganova/dp/04862203...) to help you out with the terminology and explain the finer details of some of the steps.  Most importantly, enjoy yourself!  Please ask me any other questions you may have.=]