Category Archives: Ballet

The Ins and Outs of Sickling and Winging

Posted on Jan 20, 2012 by .

We’ve all seen that photo: an otherwise lovely dancer, posed in first arabesque, with a glaring blemish at the end of … Continue reading  →

Posted in Ballet

On Balance: How to Nail Long Balances

Posted on Dec 1, 2011 by .

Few things top that jaw-dropping moment when a ballerina hits a balance—and just stays. And when you’re over your leg and … Continue reading  →

Posted in Ballet

Breathtaking Bourrées (Sept 2011)

Posted on Aug 18, 2011 by .

When I was a young ballet student, I used to pop in my favorite video of Giselle and quickly fast-forward to … Continue reading  →

Posted in Ballet, How To

Partnering for Newbies

Posted on Jun 1, 2011 by .

You’re at a summer intensive, taking your first pas de deux class—ever. Your palms sweat as you grasp your partner’s hand … Continue reading  →

Posted in Ballet, How To

Hop to It! (Apr 2011)

Posted on Mar 11, 2011 by .

You’re at a performance of Giselle, watching the ballerina hop on pointe during her Act I variation like it’s the most … Continue reading  →

Posted in Ballet, How To

How to Dance in a Tutu (Jan 2011)

Posted on Jan 1, 2011 by .

Shortly after joining San Francisco Ballet at 16, I wore my first real tutu: a gorgeous white number for George Balanchine’s … Continue reading  →

Posted in Ballet, How To