Expert: Jennifer - 8/8/2005

Question
I am 15 years old and hope to start dancing seriously this
year.  I have been taking modern at school for a year and
have taken tap for 4 years, but not ballet.  I have flat feet
and am not flexible, though I am stretching every day to
improve this.  I do not want to be a ballerina, but want to
take ballet to help improve my dancing and technique in
modern and jazz, but I am intimidated by ballet. I think
maybe people wonder why I am there because of my
pathetic arches, or lack there of (they're really flat) and I
don't know anything about ballet, but I do want to become
a well rounded dancer.  Is it to late to start on this journey?

Answer
It is never to late to start taking ballet. It really is a perfect way to supplement other types of dance... and you obviously have a good head on your shoulders about what it takes to improve your dancing.

I wouldnt feel nervous about taking ballet class. You're doing it for yourself, not your classmates! And if you are taking ballet to improve your feet and flexibility, then why would anyone expect you to be perfect when you first begin? Yes, I know ballet class can be intimidating... but really everyone in class is there for a reason: to improve their dancing. You're all on the same level in that regard... no one, not even professional dancers, ever are *perfect.* Every ballet student is constantly working to improve their dancing, no matter the level.

Definately take that class, and enjoy it!