Expert: Connie - 5/24/2007

Question
Hi. I started ballet when I was six years old for a year or two. But then my
family moved and I was not able to start again until five years ago. All
together i have been dancing for about six years but have only taken ballet
for three-four of those years. My studio does not take me seriously because
I play rugby and they only take the 10 girls seriously. I am signed up for
nine dance classes (modern, lyrical, jazz, ballet, tap, stretch, modern, tech.
ballet, and some others) the fallowing season, my legs are big and strong
from
running and playing rugby and especially dance. Getting to the point, I am
moving studios to get a fresh start away from the clicky girls, I want to start
pointe
but don't know if I'm ready. I really want to get really serious about dance
and am ready to drop all other sports. I'm committed but is that enough? Is it
a bad idea to try and start point this year? I really want to, will I be ready? My
friend who started pointe last year said that she thinks I could do it and has
encouraged me but also hasn't seen me dance for awhile, what do you think..
FYI: I am a fifteen year old female, turning sixteen next dance season in
September. I am 140 pounds, and 5'7.5 feet tall.  

Answer
If you love to do something like it seems you love to dance then you should go for it.  Since your studio hasn't been working for you, switching studios sounds like a good idea.  About pointe, I know it seems like a big deal, but you really shouldn't worry too much.  Your teacher will make the final decision as to if you're ready or not.  However, it's really only an extension of your ballet technique, and although it's fun and a little different, it's just like normal ballet in flat shoes.  Don't get too worked up about it, your teacher will know if you're ready or not.
Lastly, commitment is worth a lot.  However, you have to make sure you're getting good training, and eventually you may want to focus in on more of one dance type.
I wish you luck with your dancing!