When did you start doing ballet as an adult?
I started doing ballet when I was 39 🙂
Did you ever take lessons as a kid?
No I never took any ballet lessons when I was younger. I don’t really really even remembering asking to take any. I did take at least 2 seasons of Highland dancing when I was 5 or 6, until I convinced my parents to let me quit.
Why did you decide to take ballet as an adult?
My youngest daughter has been taking ballet and jazz lessons for the past 2 years. After watching her classes, her practicing at home, I thought I might like it. After watching her school’s end of year recital, I decided I really wanted to try and learn.
Where do you take classes?
I take classes twice a week at different studios. One studio is called Academy of Performing Arts, which is RAD based and my other studio is called Dixon’s Dance and Fitness Centre, which is Cecchetti based.
What is your favorite part about ballet?
I really like the barre section of class. I also really like adage 🙂
What is your least favorite part?
My least favourite part is probably allegro, both petite and grand lol Any kind of jumps seem to be my downfall.
Who/What is your ballet inspiration?
I don’t know that I really have any ballet inspirations 🙂 I really don’t watch or know enough about professional ballet to know any specific dancers. I will say that any adults that are willing to learn ballet or any kind of dancing are an inspiration 🙂
What motivates you to keep dancing?
The desire to get better is what motivates me. Also, trying out new things and learning to do things that I never thought I would be able to do.
Do you take any other dance classes?
No. I would really like to take more classes, but my two are the only adult classes offered locally.
What are your hobbies outside of ballet?
I have a small soap, bath and body products business. I also love to read.
What advice would you like to give to those who want to start ballet or have just started?
hmm, just to stick with it. It may seem hard and impossible when you start out, but it will eventually get slightly easier. Don’t expect to be able to do everything perfectly right away. Try not to get discouraged if you can’t do some of the steps right away. Don’t try to compare yourself to any one else, especially the dancers that have been dancing for most of their lives. Don’t let anyone tell you that you are too old to start!
Anything else you’d like to add?
Do you have a blog? no I don’t have a blog. I do have an instagram that I only posted ballet related posts on. I’m @beginningballetat40.
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