Your opinions on my (possibly) ridiculous dreams...

[Natalie M]

Hi everyone, I just want your opinions on whether or not I am too old for this. Although I of course know that you can never be too old to start ballet and people get en pointe in their 50's, here's my thing: I have a lot of dance experience (hip-hop, jazz, musical theatre, cheerleading and dance team) however, no formal ballet training since age 6 or 7. Through cheerleading and dance team I have remained very flexible and strong, and I also have more recently self-taught myself alot of ballet basics (ballet for dummies, embarrassingly enough) because I cannot afford ballet classes at this time. I can do a nice double pirouette, I have pretty good turnout, splits, grand jetes, high extension on developees, etc, etc. I will be taking formal ballet classes starting in the fall through college and I think I should be at a level three pre-pointe level by the end of my sophomore year (or during my junior year, not sure). I would hope to be starting pointe at that time, age 19. My dream, however, would to someday dance with a real company, as a corps dancer. Is this unattainable? I mean, will I be like 30 by the time I am that good? Also, I know none of you can see me dance but what level do you think I will start at? I do not know if the college ballet courses are by audition placement or your own judgement, but if they are by judgement do you think I would be level 1 or 2?

 

Thanks for listening to my rambling! I appreciate any and all comments

Edited February 8, 2008 by Natalie M

[vrsfanatic]

Natalie M welcome to BT4D! One's dreams are never ridiculous! History has shown that without a dream, a clear path is difficult. Have you discussed your questions and dreams with a teacher or a mentor of some sort?

 

You are asking the right questions when it comes to probality. You are seeking a difficult path. Being one who never says never (me ) to be honest, you are facing quite a few obstacles. Generally students in your age group are beginning to look for work or a situation that may lead to employment, not hoping to begin pointe.

 

Seek guidance from someone who has the ability to see you and someone who you are able to trust.

[violet]

I find this thread inspiring:

http://dancers.invisionzone.com/index.php?showtopic=27479

[Natalie M]

Thanks so much! Wow, that old thread definitely inspired me! I mean, I know that there is a great possibility that I will never dance professionally even in a small company, but I do believe in myself enough to think I maybe have a slight shot at it! And hey, I'll never know if I don't try

 

Thanks again for the advice, keep it coming guys!