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Ballet/Questions Answered by Expert Connie
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Exercises for ballet | 12/28/2011 |
| Q: I am 15. My height is 160 cm and weight is 105 lbs. What is the range of height and weight of a ... A: 160 cm = 5ft 2 in The normal height of a professional ballerina is 163 cm to 170 cm. However, ... | |
| flexibility | 12/21/2011 |
| Q: I am wondering if flexibility can come and go. Yesterday evening I almost did the splits- I got 2 ... A: I think that flexibility largely depends on what you are born with but can vary from day to day. ... | |
| demi point | 12/21/2011 |
| Q: I am a beginer in Ballet and I have trouble staying on demi point when doing chaine(shun-ay) turns. ... A: It sounds like you need to work on strengthening your feet. Practice your releves (8 on each leg, ... | |
| ballet | 8/25/2011 |
| Q: my daughter has gone to lots of ballet schools and all of them have been terrible so when this year ... A: I'm not sure what type of school this is (is it RAD, Balanchine, Vaganova...?), but it's good that ... | |
| ballet | 8/1/2011 |
| Q: I'm 13 and i would like to start ballet but i don't want to be with little kids when i dance i have ... A: It sounds like you should look for an adult class! Many studios offer classes for adults so you'll ... | |
| basic but very hard movements | 7/24/2011 |
| Q: I did ask an expert once before about an arabesque but I deleted it on accident :( I would really ... A: 90 degrees isn't bad! I would work on strengthening your back by doing the "superman" exercise, ... | |
| teacher | 7/23/2011 |
| Q: ( not in Pointé shoes yet) I have been trying to impress my strict ballet+tap+jazz teacher not much ... A: It sounds like you're working hard and dancing well! Your teacher's approval does not make or break ... | |
| Ballet Training | 6/13/2011 |
| Q: I am 18 and starting beginner's ballet in the fall. I have never danced ballet before but have ... A: That's great that you want to start ballet! I wouldn't worry about making a fool of yourself, the ... | |
| tour jete | 5/2/2011 |
| Q: in my ballet routine, I'm the only one who gets to do a tour jete, and i have to do two of them ... A: Tour Jetes, also known as Jeté entrelacés, are a difficult step. Here is a video of a well-executed ... | |
| Ballet | 4/26/2011 |
| Q: I'm Sky and I did ballet ever since I was 4 to when I was 11. Then I decided to quit. Now I am 13 ... A: No it's not too late at all! You have a good background, and most people don't start seriously ... | |
| Pirouettes | 4/22/2011 |
| Q: My name is Sam and I love to dance. I took ballet for 4 years, lyrical for 3 after that, jazz for 8 ... A: Pirouettes get better with practice practice practice. It's good that you're back in ballet class; ... | |
| ballet | 4/8/2011 |
| Q: when will i be able to wear point shoes i am ten and have taken ballet since i was two i am the best ... A: In the Vaganova Academy in Russia girls start pointe at the age of 9. However, they take ballet ... | |
| Is it too late? | 3/15/2011 |
| Q: I'm 13 and I've been interested in ballet for a while and I went for about 1 year when I was about ... A: You can definitely start ballet! Becoming a professional dancer is more difficult when you start ... | |
| Moleskin... | 3/15/2011 |
| Q: I've recently bought new pair of Grishko Maya I and it came with non-adhesive moleskin, which I've ... A: I'm glad I could help. To store tutus you may want to buy a bag, like this one: ... | |
| Foot problems | 2/27/2011 |
| Q: Well, I've just recently watched a vidoe on youtube called "the dreaded hooking big toe" and I have ... A: You don't say if the clicking and grinding causes you any pain. If it does (and even if it doesn't) ... | |
| pas de deux | 2/19/2011 |
| Q: and ive been dancing since I was 9. when do you start doing pas de deux? I haven't done it yet, do ... A: Usually you will want to have some partnering experience before joining a company. Often students ... | |
| pirouettes | 2/15/2011 |
| Q: hey there! I'm not very good at pirouettes...I can only JUST do two on my right leg in chaines but ... A: Pirouettes are a hard step that many dancers struggle with. Think of the basics first. Place your ... | |
| Moleskin... | 2/8/2011 |
| Q: I've recently bought new pair of Grishko Maya I and it came with non-adhesive moleskin, which I've ... A: The increased muscle in your calves is most likely due to you improving as a dancer and working on ... | |
| Fouette | 2/7/2011 |
| Q: I'm trying out for a dance team and it requires fouettes. I've danced at my old high school but we ... A: Fouettes are a difficult step and you will probably have the most luck learning them if you can find ... | |
| pre pointe | 1/14/2011 |
| Q: I am asking this question in concern for the students who are taking the pre pointe class at the ... A: I agree with you and don't believe this to be safe for the children. Neither is it necessary, or ... | |
| ballet agian | 1/6/2011 |
| Q: My Name is Kelly I did ballet, tap, and jazz for 12 years from when i was 4-16 i am now 24 years old ... A: I think that it would be very difficult for you to become a professional ballet dancer. However, ... | |
| Moleskin... | 12/23/2010 |
| Q: I've recently bought new pair of Grishko Maya I and it came with non-adhesive moleskin, which I've ... A: I would try wearing the shoes without the moleskin first, and then decide if you need or want it. ... | |
| Male Starting | 12/21/2010 |
| Q: I'm a male just randomly deciding to learn Ballet dance. I've always been interested in it. Just ... A: Men who do ballet do not wear pointe shoes (unless they're specifically training for Les Ballets ... | |
| warm ups | 9/3/2010 |
| Q: would walking, stretching and/or a hot bath be an acceptable way to warm up before practising my ... A: The best warmup before dancing is a ballet barre! The exercises are designed to warm up the parts ... | |
| Re: Adult Ballet classes | 8/20/2010 |
| Q: I am 35 years old and have always loved ballet.I was in competitive gymnastics and took some ballet ... A: It seems that your teacher's estimate is pretty accurate! You seem to be very strong, dedicated, ... | |
| Muscles | 8/3/2010 |
| Q: I was wondering if you can help me with my problem. I've been doing ballet for 10 months, and I ... A: Stretching may help to elongate the muscles. Grab your knee and gently pull it close to your bottom ... | |
| ballet lessons | 7/31/2010 |
| Q: i am wondering if any ballet teacher would agree to teach a student who can only afford to attend ... A: I would definitely look for an adult class. You'll have to discuss your situation with the teacher. ... | |
| Muscles | 7/30/2010 |
| Q: I was wondering if you can help me with my problem. I've been doing ballet for 10 months, and I ... A: Ballet, if done correctly, should not be making your legs bulky. You could talk to your teacher ... | |
| Best age to start ballet | 7/28/2010 |
| Q: I am the mother of a 4 year old girl, whom I would eventually like to start in ballet. I'm sure she ... A: For serious ballet training, the kind most people need to become a professional dancer, a child will ... | |
| ballet slippers | 7/15/2010 |
| Q: is it bad for your feet to dance barefoot? thank you! A: No, it's usually fine. You want to be careful and make sure there isn't anything sharp on your ... | |
| exercises | 7/12/2010 |
| Q: I have heard that swimming and pilates are good exercises for ballerinas to do. Is that true? Can it ... A: Swimming is good exercise for dancers because it is low impact, meaning the wear and tear on joints ... | |
| pointe ballet shoes | 7/12/2010 |
| Q: if i wear a size 8 1/2 or 9 what size of pointe shoes should i get? thanks, blake ANSWER: ... A: I don't know of any store in that area, I'm sorry. I'm sure if you search online you could find ... | |
| fitting pointe shoes | 6/30/2010 |
| Q: I'm starting pointe work soon and I have to buy my first pair of pointe shoes, but I have absolutely ... A: Basically, they fit properly if they're comfortable! Make sure you go somewhere with an ... | |
| Pirouettes | 6/22/2010 |
| Q: ) I need your help with my pirouettes. When I turn my back seems to always lean backwards causing me ... A: There seem to be two things going on here. First, I'll address the pirouettes. It seems that ... | |
| Pursuing a career in ballet | 6/15/2010 |
| Q: Okay, this might be long-winded, sorry about that =/ I'm 15, first off, and I'm always asked what ... A: You are the one who will ultimately decide whether or not you "make it" at this career. However, I ... | |
| torn between schools | 6/5/2010 |
| Q: I am 14 years old currently studying ballet in the Philippines. I moved to my present school around ... A: Wow, what an opportunity! First, I'd like to tell you that I know nothing about ballet in the ... | |
| toe pain (part 2) | 5/16/2010 |
| Q: i just wrote you about toe pain when doing bourre'es. I wonder if it has to do with the fact that I ... A: I unfortunately never received the first part of your question. You may need to send it again. Are ... | |
| Leg muscles | 5/9/2010 |
| Q: I am a late starter, I just started ballet in January when I was fourteen, now I am fifteen. Before ... A: Most likely this is just your quad muscle getting stronger. Grande battements front make them work ... | |
| What to do... | 5/8/2010 |
| Q: I’m 24 and I have no dance experience whatsoever, is it unrealistic for me to think I could be a ... A: It definitely is difficult to have a professional dancing job when you start late, but becoming a ... | |
| Leg muscles | 5/6/2010 |
| Q: I am a late starter, I just started ballet in January when I was fourteen, now I am fifteen. Before ... A: Actually, what your teacher is telling you is wrong. You have to use your upper muscle (your quad) ... | |
| pointe | 4/21/2010 |
| Q: Do you have to have an arch on your foot to be in pointe class? A: Having good feet will make pointe work a lot easier. Flexibility in your feet will allow your to ... | |
| Am I too late for ballet? | 3/21/2010 |
| Q: I am a 19 years old girl and just started ballet since more than a month ago. Previously I ... A: It sounds like the adult class would be much more fitting for you. You'll be surrounded by people ... | |
| Learning ballet | 3/15/2010 |
| Q: My 6 year old daughter is learning ballet at school but she now says that she is not enjoying it ... A: Your daughter should currently be in a creative movement class. She is too young to begin intensive ... | |
| Dance Career | 3/9/2010 |
| Q: I'm a 12 year old girl. I've been doing ballet for 8 years. I started point this year and I love ... A: It sounds like ballet is a career option for you! Being an artist is a hard life. You are not ... | |
| regaining strength and control | 3/1/2010 |
| Q: my name is Donne, i am a 28year old Female who has been dancing since the age of6. I attended ... A: It sounds like attending ballet classes would be extremely beneficial for you. Many studios offer ... | |
| Ballet | 2/14/2010 |
| Q: I am 13 years old and have never taken ballet classes with a proffesional teacher. I have taken ... A: It's not too late to start! You'll have to work harder than others to catch up, but you still have ... | |
| first dance class: what to wear- Parent | 2/14/2010 |
| Q: I just signed my little girl up for ballet class. This is her first ever dance class. I know that ... A: Professional dancers usually don't wear underwear under their leotard. Usually it is just tights, ... | |
| ballet ribbons!!! | 1/28/2010 |
| Q: .. I've been doing ballet for about five years (now I'm 12) and i want to really improve my dancing ... A: Actually, there is no specified age for pointe work. In the Vaganova syllabus in russia girls go on ... | |
| Pointe shoes | 1/26/2010 |
| Q: I've been en pointe for about 2-3 months now, and starting to go barre-less. My problem is just, ... A: I'm not really qualified to give medical advice, but I would say STOP DANCING ON IT! At least take ... | |
| Ballerina Body | 1/22/2010 |
| Q: I am 19 years old and am 5'6" and 110 lbs. I currently am dancing with a small company but am ... A: Ballet is a tough profession in this regard. From the pure numbers you gave me, I personally would ... | |
| Pirouettes and balancing | 1/9/2010 |
| Q: Connie, :) I have been having trouble balancing in my pirouettes. I can prepare for an en dehor turn ... A: Pirouettes are a frustrating step because there's no easy fix. Really, it's practice makes perfect. ... | |
| Am I too old to do ballet? | 1/3/2010 |
| Q: I am a 14 year old girl and my dream is to become a professional dancer. I've done weekly open ... A: I'm glad to hear dance is so inspiring to you. I'd like to tell you right away that it is very ... | |
| Am i too old? | 12/19/2009 |
| Q: I am 14 years old and really want to be come a ballerina, and it has always been a dream of mine,i ... A: It is much more difficult to start ballet at a later age. Most kids start to dance by the age of ... | |
| Ballerina age | 12/9/2009 |
| Q: I am 21 years old and have not danced since I was about 8/9 years old. Other than the intense regret ... A: I would never say never. However, in all honesty I would have to say that your chances of becoming ... | |
| Demi-pointe shoes | 11/26/2009 |
| Q: I am thirteen and just last month begin pointe. (i've done ballet since i was three) I was ... A: Demi-pointe shoes are basically pointe shoes with the shanks removed. Soft shoes are what I would ... | |
| Pointe shoes! | 11/16/2009 |
| Q: My dream has come true... My teacher is putting me en pointe! I'm the only one in my class who's ... A: If your teacher thinks you're ready it sounds like you're good to go! I would first ask if your ... | |
| i have problems with my turn out !!! =S | 11/8/2009 |
| Q: !! I'm from Mexico and I've been doing ballet four years ago...the problem is my turn out It's ... A: Improving turn out is a difficult thing to do. Our bodies are all different, with different amounts ... | |
| developes | 10/10/2009 |
| Q: One more question.. At my dance school there is a certain standard to get into the company. My only ... A: Unfortunately, the best way to improve them is through taking class every single day. You could ... | |
| Panties? | 9/12/2009 |
| Q: I'm going back to ballet and am really excited! Except for one thing; underwear. I wasn't allowed to ... A: In a class taught by a kind teacher, it is unlikely that you will be forced to go 'pantiless.' ... | |
| My daughter wants to stop ballet! | 9/10/2009 |
| Q: My daughter has been doing ballet since she was 5 years old, she is now 13 and a half andwants to ... A: If your daughter feels that she wants to quit, it may be best to take some time off. Hopefully this ... | |
| I'm 15, is it too late for me to start Ballet? | 8/28/2009 |
| Q: I've been interested in ballet for years, but never really had the opportunity to take any ... A: You're never to old to begin! Many studios even have adult classes, where forty or fifty year olds ... | |
| Training clothes | 8/26/2009 |
| Q: .. I'm starting to take ballet classes in two weeks (for the first time), and I was wondering what I ... A: You can't go wrong with a plain black leotard and pink tights. Bring some black shorts along as ... | |
| Ballet | 8/25/2009 |
| Q: I really would like to be a pro ballerina, but I don't have the tools I need for it. I asked my ... A: Ballet companies don't care about your training; they care about your dancing! If you have solid ... | |
| Practicing Time? | 8/24/2009 |
| Q: my name is Stephanie. I love to dance and want to become a pro ballerina, but I don't know if I am ... A: It sounds like you have the dedication and passion to be a professional. However, you really do ... | |
| Does this mean I'm good? | 8/11/2009 |
| Q: I am 13 years old and have been doing ballet for six months, and my ballet studio has decided to put ... A: If your teachers say you're strong enough, than you probably are. Also, because you're 13 your bones ... | |
| Ballet: starting again? | 8/11/2009 |
| Q: my names Alana and im 12 yrs old. i started ballet AT 7, stopped at 9, started at 10, stopped at 11 ... A: You can definitely start again! Many people don't start serious ballet training until the age of ... | |
| BFA in Dance/Ballet - Where to Apply | 7/17/2009 |
| Q: My daughter has been training in classical ballet her entire life. She dances as an apprentice in a ... A: First of all, if your daughter wants to be a professional ballet dancer, college at this point is ... | |
| what should i do | 7/16/2009 |
| Q: ok so im 16 and I know a good amount of ballet. im in this thing called colorguard and it helps with ... A: It would be difficult to start now and become a professional ballet dancer. Difficult, but not ... | |
| Ballet | 7/14/2009 |
| Q: I'm 20 years old and I use to dance ballet, but its been 3 years. Is it too late for me to start ... A: It's not too late to start dancing. There are plenty of adult ballet classes that people from age ... | |
| development of strong feet | 7/4/2009 |
| Q: how the hip role & turn out will affect the development of strong feet? A: If you use your natural turnout to its fullest extent, it should not impair the development of ... | |
| cheap?arizona?jazz? | 7/1/2009 |
| Q: im 13 and im turning 14 in Nov. I have never been in jazz dance and I REALLY want to get in it!! But ... A: Unfortunately I don't know much about the AZ area. However, there are many schools that offer ... | |
| flexibility | 6/26/2009 |
| Q: I have already asked a question on here and I left out one thing, Im 13 and Im turning 14 in nov. Im ... A: The best way to gain flexibility for ballet is to take ballet class. However, you can work on your ... | |
| Ballet wonders | 6/14/2009 |
| Q: I am a 12 year old girl......... I want to do ballet, but I don't want to be placed in a class with ... A: I would go with the teen/adult classes. You'll be most comfortable there. If, after taking these ... | |
| starting up after being out of dance for 2 years | 6/4/2009 |
| Q: my granddaughter is 15 years old.She had taken ballet along with other dance forms for 8 years. As ... A: If she wants to major in dance, it is important to have some training beforehand, so she can place ... | |
| starting up after being out of dance for 2 years | 6/4/2009 |
| Q: my granddaughter is 15 years old.She had taken ballet along with other dance forms for 8 years. As ... A: It's going to be tough for her to return after two years off. However, it shouldn't be impossible! ... | |
| Starting Ballet At A Late Age | 5/28/2009 |
| Q: I have always loved watching dance, I have always wished I could dance but I am really shy so I ... A: You're definitely not too old! You can start ballet at any age. I know of a few studios that offer ... | |
| beginner ballet | 5/18/2009 |
| Q: and how to ballet? thx ur the best!! A: Yes definitely! In the Vaganova school in Russia most children start training at nine, so you're ... | |
| Ballet | 5/5/2009 |
| Q: I wanted to know what type of ballet the Swansong is by Christopher Bruce. Thankyou for your time. ... A: I'd never heard of this ballet before, thank you for letting me know about it! It looks like a ... | |
| none | 4/30/2009 |
| Q: im doing this 12 paged essay on want you want to be when you grow up. i want to be a dancer and i ... A: To be a professional ballet dancer, most people start training by the age of nine. They take an ... | |
| Beggining Ballet | 4/18/2009 |
| Q: , I would really like to try ballet. I'm 14, and kind of overweight (but pretty flexible) and i ... A: Ballet is a good workout! It's not necessarily a cardiovascular workout, especially not in a ... | |
| beginner class? | 4/8/2009 |
| Q: I am fourteen and do you think it's to late to start? And yet where do I start? Plus can we learn ... A: It's definitely not too late to start! I would do some research and find a ballet studio that has ... | |
| Mental training for ballet | 3/24/2009 |
| Q: I have heard that ballet is 50% mental. I have looked up training the mind, now I was wondering: ... A: Everything, sports, ballet, working out, has a mental aspect to it. With ballet, physical ability ... | |
| Ballet Auditions | 3/14/2009 |
| Q: I am a fairly new dancer and I am auditioning to be a dancer at a performing arts high school. I am ... A: It sounds like you should stick to your strengths. I would ask your teachers what they suggest, as ... | |
| Ballet | 3/14/2009 |
| Q: I'm 14years old and started doing ballet only 3months ago. I am doing grade 5 and training in the ... A: For back strengthening, lying on your stomach and doing "supermans" (arching up) are good back ... | |
| ballerina body type | 3/11/2009 |
| Q: I know ballerinas come in all shapes and sizes and im not a ballet dancer myself, but i was ... A: Most ballerinas are at least five four, and usually no taller than five eight. Their weight should ... | |
| costume management for nonprofit dance company | 3/2/2009 |
| Q: I just took on the volunteer responsibility of managing costumes for the local dance company of ... A: The cost of costume rental should be related to the fees for that costume, for example, cleaning. A ... | |
| history of ballet | 2/22/2009 |
| Q: when did ballet start and its origin? A: I could tell you the basics, but you're going to find the most information by looking at Wikipedia ... | |
| Adult Dance | 2/7/2009 |
| Q: I used to dance ballet, tap, and jazz for 6 years until I was 12. My teacher wasn't that great, and ... A: What type of classes are you talking about? In ballet classes, usually a teacher will vary ... | |
| Adult Dance | 2/5/2009 |
| Q: I used to dance ballet, tap, and jazz for 6 years until I was 12. My teacher wasn't that great, and ... A: It's great to hear that you love the performing arts. =] It's definitely possible to find some ... | |
| Pre-pointe ballet shoes for a ten year old | 2/1/2009 |
| Q: My daughter has started pre-pointe lessons. She has been learning ballet for two/three years and ... A: When taught properly, a child's feet should be prepared for pointe class by the time their technique ... | |
| Ballet turn out | 1/20/2009 |
| Q: Helooo! I'm Becky I'm 16 and i have been doing ballet for three years and am on grade 6 (RAD ... A: that's fine! attitude is tough. you want to make sure that you are thinking of your knee being ... | |
| Ballet turn out | 1/19/2009 |
| Q: Helooo! I'm Becky I'm 16 and i have been doing ballet for three years and am on grade 6 (RAD ... A: Hmm, I'm not quite sure what you mean. You should know that arabesque does sometimes just look ... | |
| Is it to late, am I to old? | 1/16/2009 |
| Q: my name is Sophie and I'm 15 years old. I don't know if I am to old and to late to become a good ... A: Sophie, There's no set age for when you have to start training. Becoming a ballet dancer is much, ... | |
| Ballet and exercise | 12/26/2008 |
| Q: I am in my early twenties. I want to get some exercises for my health benefits. Can I get those from ... A: Ballet is terrific exercise. It's low aerobic activity, since there are many stops and starts, so ... | |
| ballet | 12/24/2008 |
| Q: i started doing ballet this year again. i did it when i was little and some time after that. i quit ... A: It all depends on your strength, your technique, and the opinion of your teachers. It sounds like ... | |
| ballet | 12/3/2008 |
| Q: what different types of ballet are there A: There really only is one type of ballet. It is called classical ballet. There are different ... | |
| is there a limit to age when learning ballet.. | 12/2/2008 |
| Q: i am 20 years old and i love ballet it has always been a dream of myn to dance. unfortunately i grew ... A: You're definitely not too old to learn! Studios offer adult classes all the time. It might be ... | |
| Ballet- grand jeté | 11/22/2008 |
| Q: I was wondering, how many grand jetés would a male dancer be able to do in a row? Thank you. A: There isn't really a definite answer to this question. Probably as many as their legs and endurance ... | |
| Ballet Summer Intensives 2009 | 11/22/2008 |
| Q: Are there any summer intensives out there that are good and those not on pointe can get into and ... A: It might be best to look into smaller summer intensives. These small intensives will offer a more ... | |
| ballet for gymnastics | 11/16/2008 |
| Q: I am a competitive gymnastics coach and I am looking for some basic excercises for my girls to ... A: Specific exercises are tough to give. I used to do gymnastics, so I know that the girls already are ... | |
| Ballet/ Becoming a professional dancer | 11/12/2008 |
| Q: I started ballet at the age of fourteen and I really enjoy it. My dream is to get into Juilliard, ... A: I am not totally familiar with the application process at Juilliard, but I doubt that they ask what ... | |
| ballet | 11/4/2008 |
| Q: ...... I am twelve years old and i really want to start ballet! my mother and father say I'm to old ... A: Your mom and dad are right in acknowledging that 12 is older than the age most dancers start at, but ... | |
| too old and too big? | 11/3/2008 |
| Q: my name is Maddie and ballet is the love of my life. I danced when I was little and then I quit :( ... A: I'm glad to hear you're taking six classes a week! That's very important for improvement. Make ... | |
| The effects of pointe work | 10/29/2008 |
| Q: Im currently in year 12 and i was interested in doing one of my major works on the effects on long ... A: I'm not a doctor, and I've only been dancing on pointe for 3 or 4 years, so I'm not an expert in ... | |
| satin ballet shoes | 10/25/2008 |
| Q: Well my competions for dancing are on sunday the 28th of october my ballet satin shoes 08 and it is ... A: This site should totally cover anything you need to know about how to sew on ribbons: ... | |
| Ballet Research | 10/23/2008 |
| Q: I am writing a research paper on ballet and I need to have an "interview" for one of my sources. Any ... A: All right. You should check out the http://michaelminn.net/andros/. It has a ton of ballet history ... | |
| Ballett Pointe | 10/6/2008 |
| Q: When should children be put in Pointe shoes? How long should they be in them at one time (when just ... A: At the Vaganova Academy in Russia children are put into pointe shoes at the young age of nine. In ... | |
| ballet dancer from germany.... | 9/29/2008 |
| Q: I'm 23 years old and I'm a ballet dancer from Germany. I moved to Los Angeles three month ago.I ... A: Food is a hard thing for every dancer to regulate. I'm not a doctor, so I can't really give great ... | |
| Ballet, too late? | 9/29/2008 |
| Q: I am 16 years old and will be 17 soon. I started about two years ago dancing at my highschool, ... A: I would find a serious training school as soon as possible. Look for a ballet school that ... | |
| pointe sheos | 9/27/2008 |
| Q: I need some help strengthening my ankles for my pointe work because when I try and go up on my ... A: To strengthen your feet try doing 8 releves on each foot and then 16 on both. Repeat this. Also, ... | |
| 3 year old having problems with dance class | 9/24/2008 |
| Q: my 3 year old daughter just started dance. We signed her up for the tap/ballet class, we thought ... A: I think this question is very specific to your daughter. I would talk to the teacher and see if ... | |
| beginning ballet | 9/24/2008 |
| Q: I am a graduate with a degree in ballet Performance but right now I am teaching to help ends meet. ... A: It's extremely difficult to teach little kids. I would first recommend finding a teacher training ... | |
| About ballet school | 9/23/2008 |
| Q: I am a Mom for a little girl. I want to send her to a ballet school to receive formal training. We ... A: I checked out their website, and it looks like a pretty good school, especially for someone as young ... | |
| ballet dancer from germany.... | 9/23/2008 |
| Q: I'm 23 years old and I'm a ballet dancer from Germany. I moved to Los Angeles three month ago.I ... A: Unfortunately I'm not familiar with the California area at all. If I were you I would do some ... | |
| Knee pain | 9/22/2008 |
| Q: I am 31 and have danced on and off all my life but never consistently until the last two years.I ... A: I'm not a doctor, so I can't really give too much advice. It sounds like you need some stretches ... | |
| Help! | 9/19/2008 |
| Q: I am 13 years old, almost 14 and a dancer of hip-hop for 4 years and tap for 2 years. I recently ... A: Jetes are small jumps where you start with the right leg front. The left leg brushes off to the ... | |
| Help! | 9/18/2008 |
| Q: I am 13 years old, almost 14 and a dancer of hip-hop for 4 years and tap for 2 years. I recently ... A: I would get a copy of the book "Basic Principles of Classical Ballet" by Agrippina Vagonova. This ... | |
| ballet | 9/18/2008 |
| Q: hi i have been dancing since i was 4 i have been doing ballet for the longest but it is not my best ... A: I unfortunately don't know what it takes to be a professional in tap and jazz, but for ballet you ... | |
| Pas de Deux | 9/14/2008 |
| Q: I do not know how to ask this but here goes! I have just started doing pas de deux. I enjoy it ... A: Sometimes this cannot be avoided, but your teacher may have you standing too close. Most of the ... | |
| 2 1/2 year old wants to dance. | 8/30/2008 |
| Q: I have a 2 1/2 year old that is always on her tiptoes dancing around the room, their straight up and ... A: It sounds like she's ready for a creative movement class! those usually start around 3 or 4, but ... | |
| beginner | 8/26/2008 |
| Q: I'm an adult and interesting in possibly taking some ballet just for fun. If I bend down on my ... A: i'm not a doctor, so i would talk to one before taking ballet class. hopefully ballet would help to ... | |
| To become professional or not? | 7/25/2008 |
| Q: I know this is not the type of question you would normally answer, but I would just like some advice ... A: I guess I can't really tell you if you feel strongly enough about dance to do it professionally, but ... | |
| Help please! | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: im 16 years old and have recently took an interest in ballet. I really would love to start mainly ... A: First of all, I would look into some physical therapy for your knee, or at least get a doctor's ... | |
| getting serious | 7/8/2008 |
| Q: I am in a huge pickle. I started ballet when i was 13 and got on to pointe within a year because I ... A: That's horrible! Sit down and talk with your dance teachers. If you really love it there should be ... | |
| Turns. | 7/7/2008 |
| Q: How do you perfect your foute turns besides practice?? Because I can practice all day but i still ... A: You can do drills for fouettes by doing them without a turn and one hand on the bar. Then do them ... | |
| Point. | 7/7/2008 |
| Q: Have you ever wanted or have been on point?? How did you work or strive to be on pointe besides ... A: I dance on pointe regularly. The best thing you can do is to take class, but you can also ... | |
| ballet lessons | 6/26/2008 |
| Q: I am a beginner to ballet and would very much like to begin lessons. I am thirteen going on ... A: It's definitely not too late to start! You might be best off finding an adult beginning ballet ... | |
| en pointe | 6/13/2008 |
| Q: My name is Elizabeth and I am a singer/actress.. I have been dancing continually for only about ... A: It's not good to be on pointe before you're ready because injuries can occur. However, you can ... | |
| hope? | 6/3/2008 |
| Q: i just started dance this year and i am 13. i absolutely adore it! i have done some ballet and ... A: It's definitely possible! It may be more difficult for you, starting later, but if you work hard, ... | |
| pirouettes | 5/29/2008 |
| Q: but i am really struggling with my double pirouettes, i know all the things that help e.g spotting ... A: Unfortunately there's no magic trick for pirouettes. Practicing will always help. However, there ... | |
| dance assignment | 4/26/2008 |
| Q: my dance teacher gave me an assignement on what does it take to be a professional in the performing ... A: Wow. I'm not sure if i can put everything it takes into this one response. I'll try to give you ... | |
| special requirements | 4/17/2008 |
| Q: are there any special requirements needed to do ballet?and how much can one earn by doing ballet?and ... A: Anyone can start ballet! It helps to be musical, graceful, and slightly flexible, but don't let a ... | |
| improving extensions | 4/15/2008 |
| Q: Do you know of any exercises that will help raise extensions to the front, side, and arabesque? i ... A: Instant fixes for extensions are tough to come by, if not impossible. (If you do find some, let me ... | |
| Ballet | 4/8/2008 |
| Q: My Name is Elizabeth and I'm 14 years old.I have been taking dance for about 10 years now (if you ... A: Well first of all I suggest talking to your teacher about what is preventing you from doing pointe ... | |
| starting ballet @ 18 | 4/3/2008 |
| Q: I am 18 years old. I started ballet when I was a child, but was withdrawn shortly thereafter due to ... A: You're never too old to start! Classes will help your feet get stronger right away, and unless it's ... | |
| Ballet Problems with: | 4/3/2008 |
| Q: I started Dance when i was 9 and i,ve been haveing some problems lateley I want to start pointe ... A: Flexing and pointing and side to side ankle movements are good theraband exercises. You can look up ... | |
| Is it possible... ? | 3/28/2008 |
| Q: So, im living in Costa Rica. Im 15 years old (turning 16 in SEptember) I have been dancing for a ... A: It's not impossible to become a ballet teacher, but you will probably need to reach almost a ... | |
| too old? | 3/27/2008 |
| Q: So i took private ballet lessons for a few years when i was younger probably 11 to 14, and I loved ... A: You can definitely dance again! Many places offer adult classes, and colleges often have beginning ... | |
| for the love of dance | 3/23/2008 |
| Q: i love to dance ballet. it means the world to me and i want to be thinner to carry out my dream of ... A: It's really tough to lose weight, but it can be done. Obviously the best way is diet and exercise. ... | |
| Pointe | 3/21/2008 |
| Q: I just have a quick question about pointe and if I am able to do it. You see I used to take ballet ... A: Taking pointe at home is probably not the best idea. It's best to train with a teacher who knows ... | |
| pointe shoes | 3/21/2008 |
| Q: My dance studio is losing a lot of business and its starting to go downhill. I only get 1hr of ... A: It sounds like it's time to look for a better school, one that offers pointe class and more ballet! ... | |
| ballet | 3/17/2008 |
| Q: i have learned a lot, but i don't have money to go and take classes outside of school. I want to ... A: Normal exercises you would do in a gym can strengthen your legs. To work on your flexibility splits ... | |
| can i pointe? | 3/11/2008 |
| Q: i love to dance and it has been my dream for a long time to dance ballet point. i used to take dance ... A: You really need a strong background in ballet before you can start pointe. Because pointe is just ... | |
| Studio Switching | 3/10/2008 |
| Q: The studio I'm at is very small and does nothing more than a spring recital. I've been dancing ... A: I think it would be a very good idea to switch to a more serious studio. However, don't make your ... | |
| ages grade pointe shoes | 2/18/2008 |
| Q: I just started taking classical and modern ballet lessons at the age of 13. Do you think that I can ... A: I started ballet at 13 and was on pointe by 14. It varies depending on circumstances. It's ... | |
| Re: Mens Pointe class's | 2/13/2008 |
| Q: Wow i am enjoying my ballet class never knew how much fun ballet would be and being the only male in ... A: Men rarely do pointe unless they are specifically training for a company like Les Ballets Trockadero ... | |
| flexibility | 2/10/2008 |
| Q: I'm 18 and I just started Ballet class and I love it, but I'm not very flexible how can i improve my ... A: Just continuing to take ballet class will eventually improve your flexibility. You can also look ... | |
| 13 and begining pointe | 2/6/2008 |
| Q: I'm 13 and i want to start pointe i have taken ballet for 8 years but i have never done pointe ... A: I'm not familiar with the Colorado area, but do some research. Look for a school with a specific ... | |
| a girl who loves ballet | 1/28/2008 |
| Q: I started again about 4 weeks ago.I have extremely high arches in both my feet and all my teachers ... A: It's not too old! You will have to work harder and be more dedicated than other aspiring dancers, ... | |
| Tights | 1/15/2008 |
| Q: I am 32 years old and have been doing ballet for a month now. I was a triathlon athlete for many ... A: I would not worry about it. It's probably more noticeable to yourself than to anybody else. In ... | |
| pointe shoes | 1/14/2008 |
| Q: I'm getting mixed opinions about ballet pointe shoes. Our pediatrician says NO! The orthopedic ... A: You will not damage your foot and ankles if they are strong and you truly are ready to go on pointe. ... | |
| am i too tall for dance? | 1/8/2008 |
| Q: I am a 13 year old serious dancer and I have been dancing since i was 5. My teachers say that I am ... A: 5'10 is not that bad at all! It will be a bit harder for you to get a job than normal height ... | |
| summer intensives | 1/2/2008 |
| Q: do know of any good summer intensives? I love ballet and would like to take my dancing farther!!!!!! A: Would it be possible for you to tell me where you're located? I'm really only familiar with ... | |
| Grades and age | 12/28/2007 |
| Q: I have no dance experience whatsoever, but I've been thinking about taking up ballet for a long time ... A: hmm, our clases are not in grades. most people i know who start ballet at an older age feel the ... | |
| i need help | 12/27/2007 |
| Q: i've been taking ballet classes once a week on and off since i was 4. i've always loved it, but ... A: Unfortunately, getting really good obviously takes a lot of practice. However, it sounds like you ... | |
| question | 12/26/2007 |
| Q: I am 16. I am about 5'2" and weigh 106. I have just started taking ballet. I have been dancing ... A: Hmm, it sounds like you are at a pretty healthy weight. Sometimes dancers do have to be thinner ... | |
| pirouettes | 12/4/2007 |
| Q: Is there a way to make doing more pirouettes in a row easier (other then spoting)? A: Gosh, i wish there was a solution that would make doing pirouettes easier. Unfortunately, there are ... | |
| too old? | 12/2/2007 |
| Q: I'm interested in starting ballet classes, but I'm 19 and have never had any experience in dance at ... A: You're not too old at all! As long as you can find an adult class you should be fine! Ballet ... | |
| pirouettes | 12/1/2007 |
| Q: I have difficulty going up on pointe with a straight knee, to execute my pirouette from 5th. ... A: I would practice going from fifth to pirouette position without turning and just balancing there. ... | |
| Why am I being 'forgotten'? | 11/23/2007 |
| Q: I am 15 years old, Having been in ballet for only three years but working very hard. Last year, I ... A: Maybe this school just isn't the one for you. If you want to stay at the school I would first make ... | |
| Dance | 11/19/2007 |
| Q: I used to dance when i was about 11 or 12 years old (jazz,tap,ballet), I did this for about 4 ... A: It will be harder to become a professional the later you start. However, it's definitely not ... | |
| pointe problems | 11/18/2007 |
| Q: I wanted to know how do we know when our pointe shoes are too old? My teacher gave me used pointe ... A: You know when shoes are dead when a) they hurt a lot b)they don't help you stay up on pointe or c) ... | |
| running and dance | 11/16/2007 |
| Q: I'm 17 and I run about 40 km a week in training for long distance races but I've always wanted to ... A: Definitely not! I have no idea why she runs on her tiptoes, that's very strange. The only problem ... | |
| Is it to late | 11/1/2007 |
| Q: I'm 16 years old. When i was 7 i did ballet for two years and then stopped because of an operation. ... A: You're never too old to start ballet! You will probably have to make up those two years since most ... | |
| Is it too late?? | 10/24/2007 |
| Q: I'm 13 and really want to become a professional in ballet, but many say it's too late for me to be ... A: I think that if you do try your hardest and get the best training you possibly can then you have a ... | |
| Starting ballet... | 10/23/2007 |
| Q: I am 15 and have taken jazz classes for about five years, and I've also done a year or so of ... A: It seems like you'll probably be able to start pointe pretty soon, especially if you are getting the ... | |
| pointe | 10/21/2007 |
| Q: First of all, you should know that I am turning 13 this month, and I have 7 years ballet experience. ... A: Well, if the dance school doesn't offer any pointe classes and you really want to take them it ... | |
| Am I going to be able to get there...? | 10/17/2007 |
| Q: I LOVE to dance... the only thing is that I have no turn-out, which has to do with my hips. I also ... A: Ballet is really tough to get a job in if you don't have the ideal body. However it's not ... | |
| pointe | 10/13/2007 |
| Q: one of my friends said that she tauught herself how to stand en pointe and dance en pointe. she did ... A: It's actually quite dangerous to teach yourself how to dance en pointe. You will most likely not ... | |
| tendu | 10/13/2007 |
| Q: um I've been studying ballet for 3 years now and none of my tendus look right at all! i would like ... A: it sounds like your problem is that you're sickling your foot. first of all, make sure when you ... | |
| ballet | 10/4/2007 |
| Q: I have spent years doing various sports. For the past 10 years I've mostly done weight training and ... A: It sounds like you're in great shape. Cross training is always good for ballet. Swimming is ... | |
| turn out | 9/23/2007 |
| Q: i am 15 and ive been doing ballet for 9 years, my turn out is terrible and i was wondering if you ... A: Unfortunately most of our turnout is set by the time we turn 13. What you can do now is make sure ... | |
| Strengthening ankles for pointe | 9/13/2007 |
| Q: My daughter just turned 12 and began learning pointe last year- 30 minute class/week. Full hour ... A: For the weak ankles she can do releves (8 on each foot, and then 16 on both), circles (15 slow each ... | |
| Splits, Pirouettes and extentions? | 8/28/2007 |
| Q: I am having alot of trouble with my pirouettes, especially spotting and stopping (controlled) I can ... A: All right, pirouettes first. Make sure you are using your basic stance. Your stomach should be in ... | |
| Teaching 5-7 year old ballet | 8/22/2007 |
| Q: I have trained in all the genres but since graduating college have been focusing on hip hop and ... A: Some great books if you're teaching for five to seven year olds are ones about creative movement or ... | |
| muscles for extensions | 8/14/2007 |
| Q: My extension aren't very high but im very flexible so im assuming i need more strength. Except i ... A: It's good that you have the flexibility. Now, to get your legs up higher you have to think about ... | |
| leaps | 8/4/2007 |
| Q: i recently turned 13 and im having rouble with my leaps. i can DO A SPLITS BUT I JUST CAN GET HIGH ... A: Well, it's good that you can do a split, so you know you have the flexibility. It sounds like what ... | |
| Toes | 8/1/2007 |
| Q: Well I have been on pointe for four years and during this past week my toes seem to hurt worse. It ... A: I went through a while when i couldn't take pointe class because my feet hurt so much. I tried out ... | |
| LOST | 7/24/2007 |
| Q: I'm 14 years old, and i play tennis. I like ballet as much as my younger sister. She's 8 and she ... A: Unfortunately the training you get for ballet is really important. In other dance forms your ... | |
| weight! | 7/13/2007 |
| Q: i apsolutley love my dancing have been doing it all my life and i dance everyday! however there is ... A: The tough thing about dance is that you really do need to be at a certain weight. I would tell your ... | |
| Starting Ballet | 6/20/2007 |
| Q: um, I'm 18 and I'd really like to take up ballet its something I've always been fascinated by but up ... A: You can start ballet at any age! It sounds like you'd be quite good at it. You do still have a ... | |
| my not-so-arched foot | 6/19/2007 |
| Q: I am 14 years old and i am going to be starting pointe in about 3 weeks. I feel really discouraged ... A: You are pretty much stuck with the arch you have. However, every time your point your foot your ... | |
| pointe shoes | 6/14/2007 |
| Q: are you supposed to tear the satin off of your platform on your pointe shoes? and how do you break ... A: you don't have to tear the satin off the platform, but it's often a lot less slippery if you do. ... | |
| weight and pointe exercises | 6/7/2007 |
| Q: I have taken ballet previously but haven't taken in a long time. I took for 6 years until I was 14 ... A: Yay for restarting ballet! Ask for preparing yourself the best excercises would be some releves to ... | |
| is commitment enough? | 5/24/2007 |
| Q: I started ballet when I was six years old for a year or two. But then my family moved and I was not ... A: If you love to do something like it seems you love to dance then you should go for it. Since your ... | |
| Beginning ballet-too old? | 4/25/2007 |
| Q: I'm Tiffany, and I'm going to be taking ballet in college soon. I was just wondering if it is silly ... A: It's never too late to start dance! There may be a possibility of starting pointe, but you have to ... | |
| Pointe vs. Demi pointe | 4/9/2007 |
| Q: What exactly is the differance between pointe shoes and Demi pointes? A: Demi pointe can be achieved in both soft shoes and pointe shoes. Demi pointes may also be another ... | |
| adult beginner ballet class | 2/24/2007 |
| Q: why do men have to were tights. i just started to take a class at age 28. i really like it its good ... A: First of all, the tights issue. Men usually wear tights so that the instructor can see all the ... | |
| Re adult beginners ballet class | 1/26/2007 |
| Q: My name is Keith i've not long started doing adult ballet how come in a ballet exam you have to ... A: To adress your exam problem; don't get too nervous. I sure you'll be great, and your body will ... | |
| ballet/modern dance | 1/24/2007 |
| Q: is ballet and modern dance the same? A: ohh no. ballet is characterized by the turnout of the hips and only ballet dancers dance on pointe. ... | |
| differences between Cecchetti and Voganova | 1/12/2007 |
| Q: My daughter is 8 years on and have been taking ballet at a classical ballet studio for four years. ... A: Ceccheti is an Italian method, while Voganova is Russian. Voganova is a newer technique that ... | |
| problems | 12/29/2006 |
| Q: i am 11yrs old and this is my 3rd year in dance im am about to go to the next level wich is the ... A: landing which turns? Are they from fourth, fifth or second? Are they normal pirouettes or grand ... | |
| knee pain/pointe shoes | 12/29/2006 |
| Q: I've been dancing for a few years now but i only have one year of experience in ballet. I absolutly ... A: 1) DO NOT FORCE YOUR TURNOUT! If your knees hurt in turnout, don't turn out that far. If your ... | |
| stretching | 12/28/2006 |
| Q: Hey, I have been training in ballet since the age of 3 and I am now training in a Russian method. I ... A: Unfortunately some of us just aren't born with 180 degree hip turn out and crazy hip flexibility. I ... | |
| Ballet intensives and schools | 12/26/2006 |
| Q: I'm 19 years old and i have just started ballet a few months ago and i love it and am very serious ... A: I can't really give you any names for intensives, but I can recommend that instead of looking at ... | |
| Crash course in pointe for actors | 12/21/2006 |
| Q: My college is putting on a production of "You Can't Take it With You" this spring. One of the ... A: I would not worry too much about this. If worst comes to worst all you'll have to do is work on ... | |
| pointe shoes without training | 12/21/2006 |
| Q: i am 13 years old and i used to do ballet but i quit a few years ago, and i am starting it up again ... A: Well, obviously the best way to learn ballet is to take a ballet class, which you'll soon be doing. ... | |
| Help me out with pointe | 12/20/2006 |
| Q: 1) my right pointe shoe squeaks? Though my left doesnt. I do not want to bash them because i want ... A: All right. 1) Don't worry too much about the squeaking. And, you don't have to 'bash' them to get ... | |
| Pointe | 12/18/2006 |
| Q: I got my first pair of pointe shoes in June, but I quit going to the ballet studio where I was ... A: Many people's feet are strong enough to start pointe before the age of 16. If you really feel the ... | |
| 6 positions? | 12/16/2006 |
| Q: I've been taking dance since I was 2 years old and I learned my 5 ballet positions at that age. Now ... A: Well, first of all, there is more than one way to teach ballet. There are Russian Syllabuses, ... | |
| too old to over weight | 12/15/2006 |
| Q: my name is Annie and I'm 15. i took ballet for many years when i was younger but then i stopped. Am ... A: I don't see why you wouldn't be able to start up again. You probably would need to lose some weight ... | |
| Pointe work to soon? | 12/7/2006 |
| Q: Hey! I'm Becky and i'm 14 years old. I started ballet early last year on grade 2. (Haha how pathetic ... A: First of all, don't worry about starting late. My dad started at the age of 20, and he was a ... | |
| DO SOME MEN ENJOY WEARING ''TIGHTS''? | 11/30/2006 |
| Q: I'M DANNY AND I'VE ALWAYS BEEN ATTRACTED TO BALLET FOR THE CHANCE TO WEAR TIGHTS AND BALLET ... A: I suppose some guys do like wearing tights. They obviously don't hate it too much or they wouldn't ... | |
Connie
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I can answer lots about ballet, specifically the Vaganova syllabus. I'm still training, but both my parents were professional dancers, so most answers will be coming from them, not me. :) They're the experts. Obviously, questions about difficult technique, etc, would be better answered with someone else, but if you're just becoming interested in dancing, or are having problems with basic steps, like pirouettes or plies, then I may be able to help
Experience
I've seen ballet since the age of 0, because of my parents, and I am training to become a professional dancer now.
Education/Credentials
School.
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