Category Archives: Ballet

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 … Continue reading  →

Posted in Ballet, How To

Web Bonus: Tutu Care (Jan 2011)

Posted on Dec 29, 2010 by .

(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

Posted on Nov 1, 2010 by .

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

Posted on Oct 15, 2010 by .

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

Posted on Oct 1, 2010 by .

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

Posted on Sep 20, 2010 by .

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