....follow your dream ! 
written by             on 22.06. at 03:38:08 - as answer to: beginner at 17 by Jill>I've always dreamed of being a ballet dancer, but I've never gone to any classes or anything. I was wondering if anyone knew where I could look for some beginner pointe shoes, and how I would begin, since I'm already 17? Women have started at 17 and become professionals, but not many.So if you're going to start classes now, fine, but remember theodds against a career are *very* long. Nevertheless, ballet issuch a terrific thing in itself, career or no career, that I wouldrecommend taking classes in any case, just for the sheer pleasureof taking them. Now, as to shoes: "beginner pointe shoes" is, I fear, a contra-diction in terms. Beginners don't do pointe & don't wear pointeshoes. It's not just how old you are (15 would probably be okay),but how much experience you've had. It takes time for the musclesin the foot & leg to develop the strength & control needed to dopointe. Remember that your entire weight has to be supported onthe very tips of two or three toes. That's no trivial burden, evenfor a slim woman. My recommendation: take classes & learn how manywonderful things you can do in ballet without going on pointe. Andwhen you begin to feel that you might be ready for pointe, ask yourteacher first. She will know you; she will have seen you; she willbe able to advise you. Hope that helps; hope I haven't been too discouraging. Tom Parsons Answers to this message: |
