Ballet Pointe Shoes - Becoming a Professional

by primaballerina17America

Ballet Pointe Shoes - Becoming a Professional

Hi Odette so, I started ballet when I was 9 and now I'm 12 I'll go en pointe at age 12. 5-13 years old. I'm not sure yet, but for sure no later than age 13. But, is this too old too start pointe if i want to become a professional ballerina? I will also start at an amazing pre-professional ballet school where many ballerinas have trained at next year (It will be the year I turn 14.) I know many professional ballerinas go en pointe at age 9,10,and 11.
Also, (sorry this is soo long) can you tell me some professionals who didn't start pointe until 13+? Thanks SOOOOO much in advance!!! =)

============================================

Ballet Pointe Shoes - Becoming a Professional

Reply by Odette


Remember, just like I did before I went en pointe, ballet students MUST take responsibility for their own strengthening prior to beginning pointe work.
Australian dancer, Lisa Howell has made a video which explains how pre-point strengthening works.
Don't leave it to your teacher!
You can watch this pre-pointe video
yourself here (just wait for the page to load up then the video is on the top right of the page).

Hello,

Thank you for contacting, it is a pleasure to hear from you.

Firstly, in the video above, Australian dancer Lisa Howell has made a video which explains how pre-point strengthening works. Lisa Howell gives some superb tips for pre pointe and it is explained it in a really clear way, so it is definitely worth a look.

Especially in ballet, it is even more beneficial to have the knowledge of what you are trying to achieve because then you have the understanding of how to apply it. So, with your ballet pointe shoes I would begin to build an understanding of pointe work so you are prepared to start when the time is right.

I believe it is not too old for you to start pointe at 13 to still become a professional ballerina. Pointe work is alot about confidence and experience, but also ability about being ready to start at the right time.

At vocational dance schools, the teachers start gradually introducing pointe in their first year at age 12. It is not absolutely vital to begin before this age and could even damage your feet if you start too early.

Follow the guidance of your teacher and your ballet school too, as they have trained many dancers who are going through the same as you.

If you are given the right opportunities and places to study, then you still have all the chances of reaching a professional.

With hard wor, dedication and committement you can progress through your goals.

Best Wishes,

Odette

ps. To become the best dancer you can be, learn the Seven Secrets ..... go to my 'Seven Secrets of Ballet' page