Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 7/24/2010

Question
Hi,
I'm going to be audition for the Australian Ballet School in a few weeks. I was wondering if you could give me a few tips, like what to bring etc. What are some things that people would look for in auditions for ballet schools? Any advice would be greatly appriciated. I'm audition for level 4 (full time) and I'm in year 8 (13yrs old).

Thankyou!
Mimi

Answer
in ballet full time. The teachers will also be noticing your power of concentration, and how quickly you pick up enchainment.

The main focus will be how you express through your dancing, and your physical potential.

Your focus needs to be showing them how much you love to dance, while you execute the class as well as possible. Don't worry about being perfect - they expect to re-train students, and they need to feel you can learn or re-learn as needed.

Just be yourself! If you do pointe work, bring shoes that are broken in perfectly for you. Look professional with every hair in place - the usual ballet stuff!

I know this is very exciting for you - and maybe a little nerve wracking! Practice positive thinking every day, and picture yourself going to the school.

I got that idea from Deborah Vogels' Enhancing The Body Brain Connection - The Inner Dance of Success, which she wrote for dancers.

If you want to brush up on any technique and have questions, I have tons of ballet technique info on my blog http://www.balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/

All the best, I'm rooting for you!