Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 1/16/2008

Question
QUESTION: HI DIANNE, Are you TOO OLD for ballet recital work over 40? None of our
local ballet schools do ANY coed ballet programs or any type of partering. Is
this a common problem for Adult guys who want to take up ballet later in life?
THANK'S MUCH / DANNY M.

ANSWER: I think it probably is, Danny. Studios gear the classes toward getting the most students. Partnering is only taught when a  lot of strength and basic technique has been acquired. You're more likely to get in a show if you're studying tap.

Would you be happy with Pilates? It's a great workout. But if it's performing you want, I'm not sure where to direct you.

All the best, Dianne

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: THANK'S DIANNE, And just a quick follow up. Is partnering really ONLY done
at urban pro dance schools? Where I live, its like a paradox. Guys don't take
ballet, so the local dance schools have zero classes that are geared toward
guys dancing with ballerinas. All the recital work is just girls, and i thought
the schools would be DYING to get any male out on stage in a pair of tights
just to dance with the girls......WAS I DREAMING?   THANK'S/ DANNY M.

ANSWER: The truth is, Danny, that partnering takes a dancer who has as much training as the ballerina he's partnering. So even if you're strong and able to lift a dancer, the technique involved is detailed and takes practise.

The schools in your area would not be geared to any partnering dances unless they had a steady stream of male students. That means a few years of training before those teachers are going to let them lift the girls.

You're contemplating a profession that tells most kids they are too old if they're 13. And of course that isn't true for everyone. But it is for most.

I sure hate to be the one to break this news. You could definitely get into an adult beginner class if it's offered. But partnering would be unlikely.

Please let me know how this develops for you. Have you considered ballroom?

And believe me, what the world of ballet needs more than anything, is a dedicated and soulful audience. It's somewhat painful when you have a connection at that level, yet can't physically do it. And yet, you are a gift to the performer if that is so. You are exactly the person he or she wishes to perform to. So you actually are part of the picture.

All the best, Dianne


A brief follow up - I've recommended to almost everyone to read my articles and blog entries at http://www.theballetstore.com. You have to create a user name to log in to see all the blog entries - your privacy is safe! I really apologize that I didn't tell you this - I'm not a technical person!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: HI AGAIN DIANNE,...thank's for the Ballet Shop info....( I'd LOVE to chat Ballet
with you and I am in a great adult class right now. (Send me an e-mail where I
can reach you )  Hope to talk soon Champ........PEACE & LOVE / DANNY

Answer
Hi Danny. I'd love to get more on the forum at theballetstore.com, re any topic. Would you consider talking about your classes etc. there? I will respond and so may some adult beginners who would love to share info and more in their situations. It will be fun!