written by   on 09.12. at 20:27:49

Thanks for maintaining this journal & for bringing it to ourattention. I recognize everything there, especially the hesitations...am I too old? Am I too heavy? What do I wear? Will I be the onlyman?...& the nerves the first time. I also recognized the Sumo inpointe shoes, because I spotted that picture in a cigarette ad. &cut it out & saved it. And I especially recognized that dork-likefeeling the first time around. All these young girls, & they allseem to know everything already, & here I am male & looking foolish& lost. Discouragement is the beginner's worst enemy.

You seem to have done everything right, however. New York Dancewearis a good place to deal with, & I personally like the Bloch shoes.And, whether voluntarily or just by chance, you've shopped around.You may find the place that's right for you the very first time,but you can't be sure of that, & it's smart to try several places(if you have a choice) before settling on one.

This journal is a public service; not enough is told about how itfeels to be a rank beginner in this most difficult (if rewarding)art.  I hope you'll be able to keep it up. I know that I'll bewatching it regularly as the weeks go by.

Tom Parsons

• Re: My Ballet Journal - bob - 13.12. 02:58:05