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Ballet/Can I start dancing?

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Question
Hello!
    I have always wanted to dance because I like the feel of it. I am 18 years old I have done swimming, volleyball, and tennis.  When I was little I was enrolled in ballet.  Now I would have to work for my flexibility but I am determined.  I want to research many styles of dances like ballroom and contemporary.  For a possible fitness expert in the future or music, probably both :). I am 5'2.5" and I personally could stand to lose a few pounds.  But I am still able to run and can keep up in vigorous activities.  My question is how do I find a class? Reasonable price (I will start college soon and have to pay for that)? Is it silly to feel a little awkward to be starting a class at 18? Am I too old to start taking ballet? Do they have adult classes?

In advance thank you very much for answering and for your time. I really appreciate it!

Answer
Hi Tiffany. The link below is a mini site I made about adults starting ballet. Of course you can!

http://www.squidoo.com/adultballetshoes/

Learning basic ballet technique will help you learn other kinds of dancing. It will develop and refine your posture, reflexes, balance etc. Why not get into a college dance department? You can go the Fine Arts route, or the kiniesiology/physical therapist route, and still while you are getting an education. Some dance departments do train beginners.

So have a grand adventure! All the best, Dianne

Ballet

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Dianne M. Buxton

Expertise

I can answer questions about ballet positions, ballet movements and ballet technique, pointe shoes and pre pointe exercise, mens training, ballet diet, general health issues related to dance, artistry, performance, modern dance, rehabilitation from injuries, and teaching ballet. I have taught ballet, choreographed, produced and directed dance companies. For any answers related to health questions I will offer my experience, and give references to information, but I also automatically include "see a professional".

Experience

dancer, ballet and modern, choreographer, dance teacher, artistic director, ballet mistress, producer

Organizations
I.S.T.D. Actra, Actors Equity

Publications
http://ezinearticles.com http://ballettoeshoes.blogspot.com http://streetarticles.com http://balletconnections.com

Education/Credentials
Graduate of the National Ballet School of Canada where I studied Cecchetti, Bournonville, Vaganova and Graham technique. Taught at the National Ballet School of Canada, York University, George Brown College and Harvard University.

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