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,...
by Amy Brandt | Oct 9, 2018 | Ask Amy, Health & Body
I have very hyperextended legs, and when I do sauts de chat my teachers say my back leg looks bent, even if I try my hardest and think it’s straight. Why is this happening, and do you have any tips? —Eden I have hyperextended knees too, so I understand how they...
by Amy Brandt | Sep 12, 2018 | Ask Amy, Training
I’ve noticed that my progress has plateaued. Class starts out pretty well, but once we get to center, it seems like I am not improving whatsoever. Help! —Sade You’re not alone; all dancers experience a plateau at some point. Chances are you are...
by Amy Brandt | Jun 27, 2018 | Ask Amy, Summer Study, Training
I’m a young dancer, and I’ve been accepted to a prestigious summer program. I know intensives are a good way to get my name known in the dance world. How do I give a good impression without seeming nervous? —Lydia Relax! It sounds like you still have...
by Amy Brandt | May 30, 2018 | Ask Amy, Technique, Training
Is it necessary to have significant experience in Balanchine technique to dance in any or most ballet companies in the U.S.? —Madeline It depends. If you’re interested in dancing with New York City Ballet, the company co-founded by Balanchine himself,...
by Amy Brandt | May 23, 2018 | Ask Amy, Training
I’m 15 and want to be a professional ballet dancer. I have ballet five times a week, contemporary once a week and rehearsals year-round. It is 15 to 20 hours a week. When I hear about dancers doing 30-plus hours a week, I worry that I dance too little. Is my...
by Amy Brandt | May 9, 2018 | Ask Amy, Health & Body, Wellness
How frequent is too frequent for ballet injuries? I’m a college ballet major with a rigorous schedule. Within the past year, I’ve had two sprained ankles, surgery for a labral tear in my hip and now possibly a stress fracture in my metatarsal. I...