by Amy Brandt | Apr 18, 2019 | Ask Amy, Training
I only do ballet and pointe. Is taking more styles necessary to become a professional? —Abby Loosen that bun! Directors expect today’s dancers to be versatile, and most company repertoires offer a mix of classical and contemporary ballet. While you can...
by Amy Brandt | Apr 11, 2019 | Ask Amy, Health & Body, Wellness
In December, I had pretty much every illness you can imagine: pneumonia, vertigo, flu, stomach virus. I had to drop out of Nutcracker because I kept fainting. Every time I try to come back, I take steps backwards. I’ve tried doing as much as I can in class, and...
by Amy Brandt | Mar 29, 2019 | Ask Amy
I never seem to find the right pointe shoes. I break them in very quickly, even with hard shanks. My teachers think it’s because my feet lack strength. Should my shoes be more supportive? Or should my feet be strong enough to pull myself up in my pointe shoes...
by Amy Brandt | Mar 7, 2019 | Ask Amy, Career
I’m in my second year as a trainee. I like the company, but it’s hard to tell if the director sees a place for me here long-term. I don’t want to waste my time hoping for a contract that may never come. Any advice? —Eryn Don’t pin all...
by Amy Brandt | Jan 22, 2019 | Ask Amy
I’m at the point in my training where my teachers say that I have the steps down, but my dancing needs something more exciting. They especially tell me to use my face more, but I’m having trouble figuring out how to do that without just plastering on a...
by Amy Brandt | Dec 26, 2018 | Ask Amy, Health & Body
My dance program goes on a two-week break after Nutcracker performances. I’m worried about staying in shape and hate not having regular class. What can I do on my own, and how much should I be doing? —Emma It’s easy to feel anxious about getting out...
by Amy Brandt | Dec 12, 2018 | Ask Amy
What’s the best way to store or hang a tutu? —Leslie Tutus are very delicate and expensive, so storing them properly is a must—especially if you have pets. (I once woke up to my cat chewing my Marzipan tutu to pieces!) I asked Laura Berry, costume shop manager...
by Amy Brandt | Nov 14, 2018 | Ask Amy, Training
I want to be a professional ballerina, but I am currently a freshman at a boarding school where the dance program is nowhere near the level I need to get there. What can I do? —Lucy To become a professional dancer, you need a combination of talent, rigorous training,...