Adult Ballerina Project

Heidi Edwards was encouraged to start ballet while working as a receptionist in a studio and a ballet instructor inspired her when he told her, “You know, Heidi…it’s never too late to start ballet. If you want to learn, just go for it.” Read the rest of her Q&A to learn more about her inspiration and about her journey to become an adult ballerina!

When did you start doing ballet as an adult? 

I took a two ballet classes in college because I needed art credits to graduate. After that, I started taking ballet at a studio in 2006, when I was 24.

Did you ever take lessons as a kid?

 My mom put me in ballet when I was 2, but I didn’t like it. I took jazz and tap lessons a few years later and then joined my school’s dance team. After 9^th grade, I quit because our dance coach was verbally abusive. I thought I would never dance again.

Why did you decide to take ballet as an adult? 

Initially, it was just to get those art credits for college. I was surprised at how much I liked ballet. I took classes after graduating at my husband’s suggestion…he said: “You always look so happy when I watch you dance.”

Where do you take classes? 

DancEncounter Ltd. School of Dance in Geneva, IL It’s a great local studio with a very positive and encouraging atmosphere. They are very good about including the adult dancers in performances and studio events.

What is your favorite part about ballet? 

My favorite thing about ballet is how therapeutic it can be. When I’m in class, all I can think about is my body and how it’s moving…there’s no room for anything else. When life gets difficult, I just go to ballet class and forget all my worries. Ballet also helps me express my emotions. My father recently passed away and instead of speaking at the service, I danced. It really helped me through the grieving process.

What is your least favorite part? 

My least favorite thing about ballet is that it takes a lot of flexibility, which I do not have. Now that I’ve had a child, it’s even harder to do certain things in class. I also hate frappes…I usually get caught making faces during that part of class.

Who/What is your ballet inspiration? 

I was 21 and working at a studio as a receptionist. There was an older male ballet teacher who caught me “dreamily watching” a ballet class from the office. He said: “You know, Heidi…it’s never too late to start ballet. If you want to learn, just go for it.” I tried the studio’s adult ballet class once and he came in to watch and cheer me on. Later that year, he passed away. I made a promise to myself to never forget him or how much he inspired me with his words, attitude and amazing dancing. He opened my eyes to the possibility of dancing as an adult.

What motivates you to keep dancing? 

My family! My husband is so supportive of me, even though I have to spend two nights a week at the studio (sometimes more!). My son is only two and a half, and he tells me constantly: “Mommy, I proud you. You go dance class and wear pointe shoes!” Who could stop dancing after hearing that? My other motivation is performing! I love being on stage, so all the hard work in class is worth it! 

Do you take any other dance classes? 

Not right now…just ballet twice a week. In the past, I have taken jazz, lyrical and tap as an adult.

What are your hobbies outside of ballet?

 I like to sew, read and watch documentaries. I love board games…my husband and I like to get together with our friends and have game nights. I also enjoy drawing and making crafts with my son.

What advice would you like to give to those who want to start ballet or have just started? 

Take the time to find a studio and a class that is right for you. Every dancer has different needs and goals, and every studio has different expectations and teaching styles. If you try a class and it’s not what you want, don’t hesitate to try something else. Don’t dance below or above your ability. If you’ve danced before and adult classes are too easy, ask if you can take class with the older teens at the studio. If the adult class is too difficult, ask if there is a basics class or stretch class for teens/adults. And remember…don’t compare yourself to anyone! Everybody improves at their own pace.

Anything else you’d like to add? 

For those of you who are mothers, don’t be afraid of going back to dance (or starting dance) after having a baby. Yes, your body is different. Yes, everything will be harder for a while. But, with the right teacher and the right class level, ballet can still be part of your life. Plus, it gives you much-needed “me time” away from the kids. 🙂