How to be a ballet dancer dvd
BALLET ON DVD
All ballet books are delivered worldwide by Amazon USA.
|
Learning and teaching ballet DVD's
|
For easy reference, a printed index of all the movements and variations performed is included. This comprehensive guide is demonstrated by four of the most outstanding figures in American Ballet: • Kevin McKenzie (Artistic Director of American Ballet Theatre, former principal dancer, ABT) • Georgina Parkinson (Ballet Mistress of ABT; former principal dancer, Royal Ballet) • Merrill Ashley (former principal dancer, New York City Ballet) • Denise Jackson (former principal dancer, Joffrey Ballet)
Artistic Director, Mme. Altynay Asylmuratova, formerly prima ballerina of the Mariinsky Ballet (Kirov) introduces the class by highlighting the strong influence that Ballet Mistress Agrippina Vaganova produced in the Dance Method by the greatest dancers in Ballet History. The class is performed in the classroom where Agrippina Vaganova taught and Marius Petipa created his most magnificent ballets.
This dvd features the music of Roudnev's VOL VIII CD, which Roudnev recorded in Russia.
Beginners: Before you take your first partnering class build confidence. Advanced and professional dancers: Roudnev will show you technically how to never miss a lift again. Teachers: Learn how to correctly teach partnering to male and female students. Includes: placement review, pirouettes, finger and whip turns, sit lifts, arabesque press, and overhead lifts.
First you watch the rippling muscles of four gorgeous ballet dancers (two men and two women) performing warm-up moves to classical ballet music. Martins uses ballet terminology in his cuing and no technique is taught, so it's look-and-follow if you have no previous ballet training. Next you get down on a mat for slow lower-body stretches. A difficult abdominal series is next, followed by "floor barre" exercises to tone the thighs and buttocks while still using the abdominals. After introducing moves to strengthen the back and upper body, Martins runs through a series of standing exercise segments using various ballet movements to strengthen the legs and postural muscles. The workout is divided into 17 short sections, which may give it a disjointed feeling if you're used to more continuity. At the end is a bonus sequence with profiles of the four performers, all dancers with the New York City Ballet. We get to watch them performing, practicing, and eating. One dancer makes the point that ballet is very athletic, but because it's supposed to look ethereal, the hard work stays hidden from the audience.
If you love ballet (even just watching it), you'll enjoy this workout.
Ballet Videos DVDs Books Shoes
Instructional Ballet Videos and DVDs 1
Ballet videos - Ballet lessons - learn to dance ballet; lyrical, ballet choreography, Adagio, ballet for boys, beginner to advanced and ballet terminology.
Contemporary Dance and Improvisation Volume I with Desmond Richardson DVD
In this exclusive DVD, legendary Desmond Richardson, Artistic Director of Complexions Contemporary Ballet, will teach you an innovative contemporary dance combination. Desmond also shares his tips on how to incorporate improvisation into the movement with detailed explanations and breath-taking examples. Improvisation skills are very important as they are used in dance classes, auditions and are often required in professional jobs. Enjoy the unique opportunity to watch Desmond dance the movement the way it was envisioned. “Remember to have fun! I love the art of dance and it is my greatest pleasure to share it with you...” - Desmond Richardson.
Hailed by the New York Times as one of the great modern dancers of his time, Desmond Richardson is a multi-talented artist who has mastered a wide range of dance forms including classical, modern, and contemporary. Richardson’s immense talent was first recognized as a student at New York High School for the Performing Arts during which time he received a merit scholarship from the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center (1983-1986) and the International Academie des Tanz in Koln, Germany (1984-1985).
He is also a recipient of a Presidential Scholar Award for the Arts (1986).
In 1987, Richardson joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater where he was a principal dancer for seven years. After leaving the Ailey Company, he traveled to Germany where he performed with Ballet Frankfurt. Richardson has performed as a guest artist with several world-renowned companies including the Swedish Opera Ballet, the Washington Ballet, Teatro at La Scala, and the San Francisco Ballet.
In 1997, he joined the American Ballet Theater where he performed the lead role in the company’s world premiere production of Othello. In its description of Richardson’s performance in that role, the New York Times described him as one of the most majestic dancers ever to tread the MET Stage. In 1998, Richardson joined the premiere cast of the Broadway Musical Fosse for which he received a 1999 Tony Award Nomination. He has also appeared on Broadway in the musical, The Look of Love and in the critically acclaimed Movin’ Out.
He had a principal role in Debbie Allen’s dance/theatrical presentation, Soul Possessed, which premiered at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in 1999.
Richardson has worked in television, film, and video in the United States and abroad. These experiences have allowed him to perform with such musical artists as Michael Jackson, Prince, Aretha Franklin, and Madonna. He is featured in Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi’s film, One Last Dance and the Oscar winning Chicago. He made his singing debut in Charles Randolph Wright’s 2005 film, Preaching to the Choir, performed the lead role of Beowulf in Julie Taymor’s Grendel at the LA Opera, Richardson recently appeared in Taymor’s Film, Across the Universe.
His recent honors include the Alvin Ailey School’s 2006 Apex award and the prestigous 2007 Dance Magazine Award. Recently Richardson partnered & performed with Diana Vishneva, in her one women show Beauty in Motion, at New York City Center and St.Petersburg, Russia, and is one of two Dancers invited by the President of the United States to perform in the 60th Presidential Conference in Israel May 08.
Burn at the Barre: Total Dancer Body Workout for All Levels DVD
A long lean, strong and sexy body is yours with this all-level barre workout.
The Pilates Sports Center team comprised of a professional dancer, Certified Pilates Instructors and a Chiropractor, created this amazing workout which will deliver the results you want!
Transform your body into a dancer’s physique and notice the results in as little as five workouts! This fabulous workout has driving beats at 128 BPM and is appropriate for all levels. There are three levels to choose from, and safety tips to ensure a safe and effective workout. Have fun and enjoy Burn at the Barre!
Pure Barre: Flatirons Vol. 1 Ballet, Dance, Pilates Fusion Workout DVD
Lift your seat, tone your thighs and arms, flatten your abs and burn fat in record-breaking time with the Pure Barre Technique DVD series!
The Pure Barre Flatirons Volume 1 DVD is for the beginner to intermediate Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible.
This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.
Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek Dorr leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it the most. You will begin with a warm-up to melt away fat and shape your upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is this DVD 2-3 times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.
Pure Barre: Flatirons Vol. 1: Ballet, Dance, Pilates Fusion Workout
Pure Barre: Pershing Square 1 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD
Lift your seat, tone your thighs and arms, flatten your abs, and burn fat in record-breaking time with the Pure Barre Technique DVD series!
The Pure Barre Pershing Square Volume 1 DVD is for the beginner to intermediate Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible.
This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions. Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most.
You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.
Pure Barre: Pershing Square 1: Ballet, Dance, Pilates Fusion Workout
Pure Barre: Pershing Square 2 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD
Lift your seat, tone your thighs and arms, flatten your abs, and burn fat in record-breaking time with the Pure Barre Technique DVD series!
The Pure Barre Pershing Square Volume 2 DVD is for the advanced Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible.
This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions. Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most.
You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.
Pure Barre: Pershing Square 2: Ballet, Dance, Pilates Fusion Workout
Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts 1 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD
Lift your seat, tone your thighs and arms, flatten your abs, and burn fat in record-breaking time with the Pure Barre Technique DVD series!
The Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts Volume 1 DVD is for the beginner to intermediate Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible.
This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.
Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most.
You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique. While no equipment is required, both an exercise mat and a small resistance ring are suggested for use with this DVD.
Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts 1: Ballet, Dance, & Pilates Fusion Workout
Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts 2 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD
Lift your seat, tone your thighs and arms, flatten your abs, and burn fat in record-breaking time with the Pure Barre Technique DVD series!
The Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts Volume 2 DVD is for the advanced Pure Barre enthusiast who wants to take their workout to the next level.
This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.
Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most.
You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer. All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique. While no equipment is required, both an exercise mat and a small resistance ring are suggested for use with this DVD.
Pure Barre: Lowry Lofts 2: Ballet, Dance, & Pilates Fusion Workout
Pure Barre: 16th Street Vol. 1 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD
Lift your seat, tone your thighs and arms, flatten your abs, and burn fat in record-breaking time with the Pure Barre Technique DVD series!
The Pure Barre: 16th Street Volume 1 DVD is for the beginner to intermediate Pure Barre enthusiast who wants the most effective workout possible.
This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.
Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most. You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer.
All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.
Pure Barre: 16th Street Volume 1 Ballet, Dance & Pilates Fusion
Pure Barre: 16th Street Vol. 2 Ballet, Dance and Pilates Fusion DVD
Lift your seat, tone your thighs and arms, flatten your abs, and burn fat in record-breaking time with the Pure Barre Technique DVD series!
The Pure Barre: 16th Street Volume 2 DVD is for the advanced Pure Barre enthusiast who wants take their workout to the next level.
This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time as Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions.
Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it most. You begin with a warm-up to help melt away fat and shape the upper body. Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips, and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer.
All you have to do is use this DVD two or three times per week and you will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.
Pure Barre: 16th Street Volume 2 - Lift, Tone and Burn
Between the Barres - Music for the Ballet Class - 2 Disc CDs
81 Tracks on 2 CDs. Between the Barres is a compilation of original LP volumes 1, 2, 3 and 5.
Between the Barres - Michael Roberts - Double CD set - MR02C
Between the Barres 20th Anniversary Edition
Dance Class - New Music for Barre & Centre CD
This album presents the artistry of Whit Kellogg and Antoinette Peloso in a diverse repertoire arranged for the ballet class.
Entries for barre & centre can be interchanged and used for combinations other than those designated on the disc. This CD features longer bands with no repeats. We hope these selections will inspire teachers and students alike.
Whit Kellogg has been a member of the Metropolitan Opera Music Staff for over twenty years. Primarily involved with dancers and choreographers, he has in the process worked with a vast array of singers intimately involved with most choreographic efforts. For nineteen years he was musical director of the Chautauqua Summer Dance Program and performed as soloist with the Chautauqua Symphony. He also plays for New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, and the School of American Ballet for whom he recently performed Chopiniana at the Juilliard Theater. For two summers he has been on the coaching staff of the Bel Canto Institute in New Paltz, New York. He can be seen in MGM’s film adaptation of John Guare’s “Six Degrees of Separation”.
Antoinette Peloso was a long-time member and principal dancer with the Metropolitan Opera Company at New York’s Lincoln Center.
During her tenure she had the opportunity to work with opera’s brightest stars as well as many ballet luminaries, including; George Balanchine, Alvin Ailey, Antony Tudor, Natalia Makarova, Fernando Bujones and Antony Dowell. Born and raised in New Mexico, at age thirteen Antoinette auditioned for and won admission to England’s Royal Ballet School. Over the next five years she received extensive training in classical and character techniques. Working with the Royal Ballets’ top coaches and teachers, she was schooled in the Vaganova and Cechetti methods. After graduating with Honors she returned to the United States and began dancing professionally in New York. In addition to her seasons at the Metropolitan Opera, Antoinette has been a guest artist with numerous ballet companies, dancing roles in; Giselle, Swan Lake, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Spartacus and Les Sylphides, among others. In recent years she has been teaching Technique & Pointe classes in New York.
Dance Class - New Music for Barre & Centre
Broadway Dance Center: Contemporary Dance & Improvisation Vol.
2 DVDTrain with legendary dancer, Desmond Richardson, as he shares with you the sister video to Contemporary Dance and Improvisation Volume I.
Co-Artistic Director of Complexions Dance Company, Desmond teaches you another explosive contemporary dance combination.
Continue to learn how to incorporate improvisation into your movement with detailed explanations and breath-taking demonstrations.
Improvisational skills are very important as they are used in dance classes, auditions and often required in professional jobs. Enjoy the unique opportunity to watch Desmond dance the movement the way he envisions it.
This is a “must have” for any serious dancer’s library.
Live at Broadway Dance Center - Contemporary Dance and Improvisation Vol. II with Desmond Richardson
Live at Broadway Dance Center - Contemporary Dance and Improvisation Vol. I with Desmond Richardson
Broadway Dance Center: Care and Feeding of a Dancer DVD
The Care and Feeding of a Dancer DVD is a must-have guide for dancers who want to take it to the next level.
Join us as Toni Branner, exercise physiologist, author, and (most importantly) mother of a dancer, presents the latest research on free radical damage and oxidative stress in dancers and athletes.
Develop your free radical defense system by eating foods with the right nutrients. Learn real and simple solutions to improve your family’s nutrition. Prevent disease, enhance your immune system, and achieve optimal health.
Research regarding the prevention of memory loss, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and aging will be shared.
This is your chance to impact your future and your dancer’s future in the most meaningful way.
Live at Broadway Dance Center - The Care and Feeding of A Dancer with Toni Branner, M.A.
Attitude Tu DVD
The Attitude Ballet Pilates Fusion classes have become a popular workout for anyone looking to improve balance, coordination, posture, and grace.
Attitude Tu is the next step on your Attitude journey. More challenging balance work, unique strength techniques using exercise bands and our popular ball routines, classic Pilates mat with a JUST b touch!
You'll strengthen and sculpt your arms, work on balance, and tone your entire body!
Recommended equipment: A mat or carpeted surface; resistance band; 2-5 pound weighted ball.
DVD includes three shorter options: Center - 13 min; Center with Bands - 14 min; Mat Work - 21 min; and Stretch - 3 min.
Bernadette Giorgi: Attitude Tu
Bernadette Giorgi: Attitude Tu Ballet Pilates Fusion
Shape Up with David Howard DVD
“Shape Up is without a doubt, the ideal way to achieve head to toe fitness. It is marvelous for flexibility. It tones and strengthens every part of the body”. - Natalia Makarova. “To develop poise, improve body image and keep fit: Shape Up is an excellent program of exercise”. – Vogue Magazine.
Shape Up is a unique exercise program designed by America’s foremost ballet master David Howard. These energizing and strengthening exercises provide a complete workout for all fitness levels and offer a varied mixture of aerobic techniques that target your body’s core muscle groups toning and conditioning them.
This fun and exciting program also features top Broadway dancers performing some of the shown techniques to a musical score by Douglas Corbin.
David Howard, ballet master, teacher and coach was a soloist with the Royal Ballet and the National Ballet of Canada. Mr. Howard opened his world famous school on Manhattan’s upper west side in 1977. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the National Association for Regional Ballet, and served as its President from 1976-1979. He has been a guest teacher for New York’s Metropolitan Opera, the Joffrey, Boston Ballet, the National Ballet of Canada and the Ballet de Marseilles. David Howard has coached many of the world’s foremost dancers and celebrities including Natalia Makarova, Gelsey Kirkland, Valery and Galina Panov, Patrick Bissell, Cynthia Harvey and many others.
Shape Up with David Howard
Element Mind & Body Experience: Ballet Conditioning DVD
Ballet Dancers always have slender bodies that are both strong and lean with lovely proportion and gorgeous body lines. One of the greatest secrets to a dancer's body is ballet conditioning, which focuses on all muscle groups.
In this unique program, your muscles will work smoothly in unison to create a long, streamlined silhouette with flat abs, a lean lower body and beautifully defined curves. Moving gracefully and fluidly through this series of exercises, you will strengthen and stretch your way to a dancer’s body.
Elise Gulan has over 18 years in dance education including Ballet, Pointe, Tap and Jazz. She was a principal soloist for the Virginia Ballet Company where she danced for seven years appearing in productions such as Copelia, Swan Lake and Nutcracker Suite. She brought her love of expression through movement to her new career as a certified personal trainer and instructor of Yoga, Core Fusion® and Core Energy Flow®.
Elise enjoys helping her students to find their inner strength and to energize their joy of life through physical and mental fitness. Element is proud to support the Arbor Day Foundation. For every four Element DVDs purchased, a tree will be planted (up to 20,000 trees annually). In addition to generating oxygen, trees provide air pollution control and decrease atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, thereby reducing global warming. www.arborday.org.
Element: Ballet Conditioning
Ballet for Boys with Richard Glasstone DVD
The perfect introduction to ballet for boys and young men.
This program presents, in a clear and understandable style, the building blocks of movement which include: bending, extending, rising, jumping, turning and darting while teaching how to co-ordinate these movements rhythmically. Specially designed and presented by world-renowned ballet teacher Richard Glasstone, this program is demonstrated by young beginners, late starters, and a professional dancer.
Ballet for Boys with Richard Glasstone
Bob Rizzo's All That Dance DVD
With Keith Clifton. All about variety! All about fun! A complete dance video that encompasses the best in Jazz, Ballet and Lyrical. Never a dull moment as Keith Clifton takes you through high energy Jazz, gorgeous Lyrical, and Ballet choreography that’s as delicate as it is powerful.
With music composed by Keith Clifton, All That Dance will encourage dancers to tap the range and versatility they all possess. Designed for the intermediate and advanced dancer, the three routines are taught in segments with both front and back views!
Keith Clifton is an acclaimed dancer, teacher and choreographer based in Los Angeles. His work includes commercials for Dr. Pepper, Wendy’s, Dodge, McDonald’s and Levis Jeans. As a musician, Keith composes his own music and currently performs with the Clifton Drum Tap Trio. Music from this DVD is available on the All That Dance CD below.
All That Dance DVD - BR56D
Bob Rizzo's All That Dance: Jazz, Lyrical & Ballet with Keith Clifton
Bob Rizzo's All That Dance CD
Contains the music for Keith Clifton's warm-up and routines on the All That Dance DVD above.
(2005)
All That Dance CD - BR56C
Ballet with Style DVD
Kathy Sullivan teaches four lively and exciting Ballet routines designed for all levels. Using traditional Ballet steps, each dance has it’s own theatrical flair to really showcase the dancers’ personalities. Shown in performance, then slowly broken down in segments, the steps and style are easy to learn!
Kathy teaches Ballet and Pointe at STEPS on Broadway and is on faculty at Barnard College and New York University. Formerly with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, she now choreographs in a variety of styles and her works are frequently presented in NYC.
Bob Rizzo: Ballet Dance with Style
Budding Ballerinas - Pre-School DVD
This imaginative class ties together the best elements of creative movement with the structure of classical Ballet.
A great introduction for first-time students who want to study Ballet in an enjoyable environment. Teachers will find helpful hints and imagery that will stimulate the minds of their young dancers.
BONUS FEATURES: “How to prepare your Ballet Bun” and “Fitting your Ballet Shoes”.
Bob Rizzo: Budding Ballerinas- Ballet Dance For Children
Ballet 101 - A Beginner's Class DVD
Bring a beginning ballet class right into the privacy of your living room. This is a simple, stress free and informative session that challenges both adults and children who wish to be introduced to the world of the arts. Dancers are taken on a step-by-step journey that begins with preparation and warm-up, paces them through easy ballet moves and ends with a grand finale incorporating what's been taught.
Ballet 101 is an easy to follow, hands-on tape that is based upon the syllabus of a major University of California program and is endorsed by private instructors.
A printed enclosure assists the dancer with ballet terms. Great preparation video, even if you plan to take classes.
Ballet 101 - A Beginner's Class, DVD
Ballet 101 & 201, Combinations 1 - DVD
Ballet 101 & 201, Combinations 2 - DVD
Ballet 201 - Beyond the Basics, DVD
I'm A Ballerina Now DVD
This program was created to inspire and help children realize their dreams of becoming a dancer. It is a complete ballet class for young beginners. Lyrics are sung to beautiful music which aid the child in remembering the dance exercises and performing them correctly. The young dancer's dream is visualized during each exercise when a real ballerina appears and performs the same steps which the child is working on. This is also an excellent guide for parents looking for a dance school for their child. It shows the types of exercises that should be a part of every ballet class.
I'm a Ballerina Now
Former American Ballet Theatre Ballerina Michelle Benash has designed an instructional Pointe video for all levels.
Ms. Benash provides exercises and guidelines that develop technique and strength on Pointe. Included are barre and center for Beg-Int-Adv levels and a beautiful variation for the int/adv dancer.
"This video is a must for serious teachers and students who care about the healthy developmental approach to this demanding art form. Michelle Benash intelligently lays the groundwork for a dancers evolution toward a professional career." Kirk Peterson, Ballet Master, American Ballet Theatre.
Bob Rizzo: To The Pointe-Ballet Dance Class with Michelle Benash
My First Pointe Shoes DVD
Join Ballerina Michelle Benash for your very first Pointe Lesson. Learn how to fit, sew and prepare your shoes before you begin.
Then follow along as Michelle teaches you a barre, center exercises and a lovely variation for the beginner student. Makes a great gift for the aspiring Ballerina of today!
Michelle Benash teaches Ballet at the famous High School For The Performing Arts in New York City - the school on which the film and television series "FAME" was based.
Bob Rizzo: My First Pointe Shoes-Ballet Dance
Buy Ballet Videos
Share
See Also
Finis Jhung Ballet, Classic Ballet Videos and DVDs 3, Ballet Fitness Videos & DVDs 4, Ballet Performances or view all our Dance Videos and DVDs
How to become a prima ballerina
October 30, 2020 at 10:00 am
Tips from a Japanese woman who conquered Yekaterinburg
Miki Nishiguchi started ballet at the age of three in Japan Photo: Vladimir Zhabrikov © URA.RU
Getting on pointe shoes, learning how to move beautifully and achieving serious career heights on the theater stage is the dream of many girls. How to get into the world of ballet, what and where little ballerinas are taught and what comes out of it, specially for URA.RU told participant of the Bolshoi Ballet, leading soloist of the Yekaterinburg Opera and Ballet Theater Miki Nishiguchi.
— At what age do you want to become a ballerina and when is it too late to start?
Japanese Miki Nishiguchi came to Yekaterinburg in 2013 — immediately after graduating from the Academy of Russian Ballet in St. Petersburg
Photo: Pavel Kirbyatiev © URA.RU Russian Ballet named after Vaganova (Petersburg). Of course, I did not immediately get up to the machine. First there were stretching, exercises to the music. She graduated in 2013 and was immediately accepted into the troupe of the Yekaterinburg Opera and Ballet Theatre. As part of the troupe, she toured the cities of Germany, Israel, Italy, Serbia, Estonia, as well as in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
If you want to learn ballet professionally, you need to start from 6-7 years old. At 10-11 years old, you can already enter choreographic academies and colleges. It is important not to waste time. For those who want to professionally study ballet at the age of 12-13, it will already be very difficult to catch up with their peers in technique.
— What qualities should a future ballerina have?
- Love for ballet is the most important thing. It is she who helps to endure and overcome all the difficulties and hardships associated with this profession. It is also very important to believe in yourself! Do not be afraid of professional criticism, be able to notice mistakes, work on them and correct them. This is the path to self-improvement.
— Where to train?
If you intend to connect your life with ballet, you should learn the basics from the age of 6, and at 10 you can already enter the State Choreographic Academy
Photo: Vladimir Zhabrikov © URA.RU
— You can start in a private studio. But if you want ballet to become your profession, it is better to enter a state academy or college. In such schools, the curriculum includes more hours for ballet classes. Not only classical dance, but also special disciplines - folk dances, modern, acting.
In a private studio, a child will be taught to dance, but in order to get a job in the theater in the future, you need a diploma of a ballet dancer.
- What do mentors look for? What kind of children are weeded out?
- Many girls say they dream of becoming a ballerina, but often this desire is imposed by their parents. Only the teacher will determine whether the child has the ability to do this. Even looking at a 4-year-old child, one can already appreciate his capabilities. The teacher evaluates turnout, step, rise, musicality.
— How much does ballet education cost?
- Studying in a public school is not as expensive as in a private one. The state bears most of the costs. The pupils are provided with a boarding school, pointe shoes and swimwear for classes are also given free of charge. But, for example, in Japan, where I learned the basics of ballet, the situation is different.
I had no choice, because there are simply no public schools where you can learn ballet. My studies cost my parents a lot.
Training will take up almost all your free time. You have to be ready for this
Photo: Vladimir Zhabrikov © URA.RU
— What will you have to sacrifice?
— When I started seriously studying ballet, there was little free time. In the morning there are lessons in a regular school, in the afternoon and until late in the evening - classes in a ballet class. Still need to do homework. I remember I wanted to take a walk with my friends, spend time with my family, but I had to sacrifice all this. Now nothing has changed. Ballet still takes a lot of time. He practically does not remain in his personal life. But, in fact, when we want, we all have time. Many of my colleagues, for example, are pursuing higher education online.
— Is ballet hard?
- We have serious physical exertion, injuries happen.
But ballet is art. Not only technique is important here, but also what you want to express with your body, convey to the audience. There are competitions in ballet. Young artists take part in them. This is an opportunity to demonstrate yourself, to look at others. A chance to get an invitation to the theater troupe. But at the competition it is important to show not only technique, not only what you are superior to others in, you must remember that the performance should hook the audience. If the dance is without a soul, it will be boring to watch.
— How is a ballerina's day?
In 2018, together with her partner Alexei Seliverstov, the ballerina took part in the Bolshoi Ballet project on the Russia Culture TV channel
Photo: Vladimir Zhabrikov © URA.RU Did you get up on the wrong foot today? Several hours of rehearsals, after which something always hurts. But it's all worth one of the most important points. At the end of the performance, you get applause from the audience, and this is a great happiness.
I am happy to do what I love.
— Tips for parents of future ballerinas. How to educate an artist without going too far?
- Parents should be attentive to their child, help him, believe in him. My parents have always supported me in everything. It is necessary to ensure that the child complies with the sleep schedule. It is necessary from an early age to teach a child to eat right: less sweet and starchy foods, more vegetables and fruits. And it is also very important to meet a good teacher!
If you want to report news, write to us
"I felt like I was Russian"
Previous article Next article
Rising ballet star Marina Shibayama - about how she followed her dream to Russia
Author:
online Journalist
A Japanese girl with a Russian name Marina came to Russia to devote her life to ballet. Now she is the winner of the Grand Prix of the prestigious international competition "Stars of the World", an artist of two metropolitan ballet troupes and a student of the Faculty of Arts of Moscow State University.
Marina Sibayama told the correspondent of "Journalist Online" Eva Bereslavtseva , for which the Japanese love the Russians and for which it was worth leaving the Land of the Rising Sun.
©Alisa Aslanova / Journalist Online
I don't have an ordinary story like “I saw Swan Lake and decided to become a ballerina”! I was born in Japan, in Osaka, but because of my father's work, we lived in America for several years. There I fell in love with musicals, so my mother took me to a ballet and tap studio. When I was four years old, we returned to Japan, where the step was not yet popular, but the ballet circle was right in the building of my kindergarten.
Unfortunately, there is no professional ballet education in Japan, you can learn it only as a hobby, in the evening after school. I went to study at the Japanese ballet studio, where they taught according to the Vaganova system. Therefore, since childhood, I have developed an image: if ballet, then only Russian!
When I was ten, ballet teachers from Russia came to Japan to give a master class.
It was then that I realized that I certainly want to get to your country and see everything with my own eyes. At the age of 12 I started learning Russian.
At the same time, we first came to St. Petersburg with the ballet school. I finally saw the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet and theaters! Most of all I was surprised that there are performances almost every day. Unfortunately, this is not the case in Japan. Japanese troupes have to rent concert halls themselves, sell tickets themselves - because the Japanese are not used to going to ballet performances. And in three weeks in Russia we saw three ballets!
I was inspired by the audience. Unlike the Japanese audience, the Russians applaud for a long time and wait for the artists to bow again, after the performance they share their impressions with each other. Then the desire to perform where there are such sympathetic spectators woke up in me, where the stage is literally “warm”, I want to dance on it.
Two years later I went to Russia with a purpose - to study at a ballet school.
It was a classical dance school led by Gennady and Larisa Ledyakh. I have already managed to find out a lot about the country: I watched DVDs, searched for information on the Internet. So the expectations from the reality practically did not differ. But one thing surprised me - winter! Much colder than I thought. The lowest temperature in Japan is minus one degree, not counting, of course, the northern island of Hokkaido. And here it can be minus twenty, and even colder! In such frosts, I can’t stand more than twenty minutes on the street, but running to the metro, on the contrary, is good - it’s refreshing! But at the same time, it is cooler in Japanese houses in winter than in Russian ones. Not everywhere in Japan has central heating.
Also, I was afraid that I would be treated badly because I am a foreigner. But it turned out the opposite: as soon as I say that I came from Japan, I immediately hear exclamations: “What a beautiful country! Why did you come to live in Russia?!” I noticed that Russians love my country: they drive Japanese cars, buy drinks from Japanese vending machines and clothes in the Uniqlo store.
I really like Muscovites. They always helped me a lot, despite the fact that at first I did not know the language well. For example, I ask if it is possible to come for an internship. In Japan, they would answer me: “Yes, let's, of course!” – and in the end no one would call back. So it is customary, politeness is only in words, no one can answer “no”, they will agree with a smile. And in Russia, if they can’t help you, they will say directly: “Unfortunately, no.” So Russians are very easy to understand. And if the answer is yes, they will definitely help, even if not right away.
It's hard to express my feelings when I saw Russian food. This "acquaintance" took place in the student canteen. “Rice” was written on the menu, I chose it, tried it, and realized that it was in vain ... Rice is completely different, not Japanese, very thin. But I like borscht, compote, Olivier salad. But I don’t really like sweets, even though I’m a girl. In this regard, Japan is ideal, they even put less sugar in the “sweet”.
But my mom loves sweeter food! As soon as he comes to Moscow for a visit, he immediately demands compote and pancakes with banana and chocolate. And I, on the contrary, beg her to bring Japanese food, which is sold at the airport!
If in the first year of my studies I was taught “Russian as a foreign language”, then when I entered the ballet school, I realized that everything would now be only in Russian. And this is a completely different level. It is still difficult for me to speak Russian, and it is not easy to pass Russian exams, but it is very interesting. For example, in Japan, there is a completely different presentation of the same Russo-Japanese war. Well, funny situations related to language happen even now. I still can't pronounce "dressing room" clearly! You have to replace the word "dressing room" or point to your clothes, use gestures.
© Alisa Aslanova / Journalist Online
© Alisa Aslanova / Journalist Online
Picture
© Photo from the heroine's personal archive
In Russia, I took part in an international ballet competition for the first time.
It took place in St. Petersburg, when I was seventeen years old. I was shocked by the girl who performed in front of me: she finished the dance, made a bow, came backstage and immediately declared to her teacher: “Hurrah, I will take first place!”. I was horrified: “That’s it, no, no, I don’t want to go on stage!” I understand, she immediately felt that she showed herself! But don't say that in front of me, please, I'm the next to perform!.. In the end, she took third place, and I was second and was happy, although everyone was joking: why not first?
Another competition, "Stars of the World", was held two years ago. I had already graduated from the ballet school and entered the Faculty of Arts of Moscow State University, studied in my second year. I felt that I could win. She even wrote to her mother: “I feel that this time I should take something!”.
And so they begin to announce... Third place - oh, not me! Second place - not me ... And finally, first place! .. Not me either .
.. Immediately rushed to write to my mother: “Oh, sorry, it didn’t work out ...”. Suddenly they announce: Grand Prix! "Mom, I did it!"
I had difficulty in ballet. Let's say for me at first it was a big problem to make a beautiful instep, as Europeans can do. I thought it was a minus for me. But when I started dancing, I noticed that thanks to the rise I can do something that Russian girls cannot do. My foot turned out to be stronger, so the technique is stronger. It is not difficult to jump on pointe, it holds firmly. So there are always pros and cons.
In addition, Japanese women are usually shorter than Russians and not as beautiful. Due to my height, I cannot participate in all productions. I have always disliked my height, but one incident changed my attitude. Last year I had to dance at a gala concert. But I didn’t have a partner, and the director advised me to pair with a soloist, a very strong ballet dancer, with whom no one dances in a pair, because all the girls are taller than him.
And exactly one year ago we first met. Indeed, for a ballet, he is not tall, somewhere around 170 centimeters, but we look very nice with him. And he was just looking for a little technical girl as a couple. I rehearsed with him at the Stanislavsky Theater and for the first time I saw prima ballerinas up close, I even adopted some of their movements! So thanks to my growth, I got a great experience. For the first time I thought: how good it is that I am small!
My ideal in ballet is Natalia Osipova. She used to be a soloist at the Bolshoi Theatre, now she has moved to London. Coincidentally, when she performed in Moscow, I just had my first year of training at the ballet school, I often went to performances and watched her. I was in awe of her precise technique and incredible jumps. Not all ballerinas can do this: spin in a fouette, double, double, double! Amazing, breathtaking, like in a circus!
Then I saw her in the role of Esmeralda and Juliet and realized that Natalia Osipova's acting skills are also on top.
She reincarnated and lived all her roles. I cried after the performances. I think she is the perfect ballerina.
I myself am currently working in two troupes. The first is called the Russian Ballet Seasonal Theatre, and the second is the Russian Multimedia Ballet Theatre, directed by Andrey Alexandrovich Evdokimov. He used to work at the Mariinsky and the Bolshoi Theaters, and now he has created his own troupe, with which we will soon go on tour to Cyprus. By the way, I'm the only foreigner in it.
In winter, I was offered a large-scale tour of Russia and 13 performances at the RAMT (Russian Academic Youth Theater. - approx. auth .). I really wanted to speak there and invite parents from Japan. But in the end I decided to refuse, as I need to prepare for the session.
I would like to connect my future with ballet forever, but I understand that the life of a ballerina is short. When my legs or back begin to fail, I plan to become a ballet teacher. Therefore, I study theory at the Faculty of Arts of Moscow State University.
© Photo from the personal archive of the heroine
During the two years of my life in Russia, I seem to have begun to feel like a Russian. But then I realized: no, I'm Japanese.
But I'm not proud of it. Even in school questionnaires, to the question “who do you want to become”, I answered: I want to become Russian! Because Russians are very beautiful. I used to think that absolutely all the girls here are like models: a long braid, a small face! Now I understand that not everyone is like that, but sometimes I can’t look away.
I would like to become Russian, not only because of beauty, but also because of inner qualities. Confidence! There are a lot of girls around me now who believe in themselves and in each other.
In Japan, even if someone has confidence, they don't show it. This is considered good manners. And I once almost missed a great opportunity because of my insecurities. One friend suggested that I perform in Don Quixote, they lacked two ballerinas.
She asked me if I wanted to go to the screening. But there was only a week left! An unfamiliar place, unfamiliar teachers, and I did not know this dance at all, I had to learn from scratch. I told the teacher, asked for advice, and she encouraged: “You need to try, you won’t lose anything.” Of course, I will not lose anything - but this is psychological stress! Thanks to my boss, I made up my mind. They took me, and I managed to learn everything.
My parents say, "You're too strong for a Japanese girl." Japanese girls stand behind a man, support him, their character is different. And I can do it, but I don't want to.
One of the reasons is the pamperedness of Japanese men. Mothers love their sons too much, so many boys in Japan now look more like girls. Russian mothers are also kind to their children, but still there is a different upbringing. When I drive around the city, I see how a little boy holds his mother’s bag, helps, in the subway, the place gives way to older people.
And in Japan, on the contrary, it would be: "Sit, my dear"!
I was thinking about Russian citizenship, but I'm not going to get it yet. Because I will automatically lose my Japanese. I have no brothers and sisters, I don't want to leave my parents. But I plan to get a residence permit. I would like to work in Moscow and come to Japan for summer holidays. There is another dream - to marry a Russian man.
In Japan, I thought many times about giving up ballet classes. Doubts were dispelled when I entered the Moscow ballet school. I remember the graduation concert for the first year of study: I was immediately given a solo part. I was sure that because of envy, everyone would turn away from me, and then suddenly the girls supported me.
Unfortunately, this is not the case in Japan. If there is only one place, competition begins, and this is a nightmare. "Why are you dancing? Break your legs, I'm better! In front of the teacher, everyone is kind, smiling - but behind the scenes it’s completely different.
