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Ballet/wanna- be performer

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Expert: - 7/14/2010


Question
Hi!
I just turned 16 and have been dancing on and off for 15 years. I have been close to going on pointe  several times but due to health problems, were delayed. I pursued academics actively for most of middle and high school, however i am now realizing that my heart truly is in dancing, and that's the only thing that makes me happy. Am i to old now to pursue ballet as a career? I have been told recently by my teacher a college that i am good enough that if I work very hard i could possibly make it. Please tell me your opinion on this. thank you very much!

Answer
Hi Shania.

To be honest, I cannot offer my opinion, since I can't see you dance.

If you are healthy now and your teacher sees that you have potential all I can say is, go with that. Here are some tips that can help you:

The Perfect Pointe Book at http://www.balletpointeshoes.info  incredible support for the dedicated ballet dancer

http://www.balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com        many references to top dance educators, and articles about ballet technique

All the best with your dancing ballet, Dianne  

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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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