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Ballet/Starting ballet at the age of sixteen.

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Expert: - 4/10/2011


Question
Hi, Dianne!
I am sixteen, and I never had ballet classes before. Plus, I am not very flexible, which is – apart from my age – what scares me the most! Also, I’m quite short and very thin.
I was wondering if it’s too late to start dancing...? I don’t wish to become a professional, even though I’ve wished to attend classes.
Thanks!

Answer
Hi Rute. Certainly you can start ballet now. Concentrate on learning the details of classical technique for a while, and add some daily stretching routines whenever you feel ready to take on more.

http://squidoo.com/ultimatestretchingguide is a site that presents a stretching DVD for both dancers and non-dancers. It is a whole body stretching guide, wonderful for ballet.

It is never too late to dance ballet!

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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