Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 12/6/2007

Question
Hey,
I'm 15 years old and I have really wanted to take ballet since i was small, i tried a few classes (meaning 2-3) when i was 5 but dropped it and took up singing instead. I dont regret taking singing but i still do really, really want take Ballet. I have done a bit of research, about finding out places in my area who have Adult/Teen beginner classes and such but i would really like to know is there a huge disadvantage about me taking up ballet at my age? and when talking about my taking up ballet with my mum she told me i was too over weight and far too tall. Im 5'8" and weigh 65kg. Am i too heavy and too tall? and my last question would be when taking ballet, how is it decided when the dancer is able to learn to dance "en pointe"?  
sorry if im wrong and sound like a ignorant git, im not exactly smart when it comes to ballet terms! hehe
Thank you!
Charlotte.

Answer
Hi Charlotte. Any disadvantage taking ballet at your age would be relative to your goals with ballet. If you simply want to learn ballet because of its elegance and strength building, then it is to your advantage to do so.

However, if you were inclined to compare yourself to other students who have been doing it for years, that would not be a boost for you. You would feel fine if you were focused on your own reasons for being there.

Are you thinking of doing ballet professionally? That would not be likely at your age - there is simply so much material to learn and get strong at doing. It does take years.

Students who are assessed to be strong enough by their teachers, go on to pointe work. That generally occurs after about three years of training, and after one year of taking three classes per week. A lot of strength is needed.

5'8" is pretty tall for a ballet dancer. Not that there are not any performing, but again, they are the exception.

Ask yourself what attracts you to ballet? There is no reason not to take classes if you would enjoy it.

Perhaps your mother is thinking that you would be better off putting time into something you could do professionally, if you really fall in love with it - like acting? I'm just throwing out ideas here. Acting training would add to your singing nicely - but I don't know if you are interested in performing at all.

If it's just to do ballet and see how far you can go and enjoy it, there's no reason not to.

I hope that answers everything! 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!