Category Archives: Ballet

How to Dance in a Tutu (Jan 2011)

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

Posted in Ballet, How To

Web Bonus: Tutu Care (Jan 2011)

(Click here to check out “How to Dance in a Tutu.”) Cleaning the skirt:Don’t get the netting or the hoop … Continue reading 

Posted in Ballet, How To

Background Ballerinas

You’ve finally been cast in Coppélia, and you’re thrilled! Before the show, you spend extra time on your hair and … Continue reading 

Posted in Ballet, How To

Mastering the Vaganova technique

Precision. Quiet power. Controlled strength. Regal carriage. Vaganova-trained dancers are easy to spot: Their technique is deeply internalized and their … Continue reading 

Posted in Ballet

The Truth About Turnout

Turnout—a combination of rotational flexibility and the strength to properly hold that rotation—is the foundation of ballet. But it’s also … Continue reading 

Posted in Ballet, How To

On-Point Pirouettes

Whenever I watch a ballet, I’m mesmerized when a dancer whips out perfect pirouettes. The magic of successful turns mystifies … Continue reading 

Posted in Ballet