Introduction to Late Starters in Ballet

While Misty Copeland's journey to becoming a principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre is well-known, she's not the only notable ballet dancer who started late. In fact, there are several celebrated professionals who began their training at later ages. This article explores the stories of some of these late bloomers in ballet, highlighting their journeys and contributions to the dance world.

Notable Late Starter Ballerinas

From renowned artists like Rudolf Nureyev to modern-day stars such as Darcy Bussel, there are many dancing professionals who found their calling later in life. Here are some of the most prominent late starters in ballet:

1. Misty Copeland

One of the most celebrated cases is Misty Copeland, who became a principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre in 2015. Copeland's journey to stardom includes her late start in ballet. She began her training at the age of 13, a relatively advanced age for many in the ballet world. Despite this, Copeland's dedication and talent led her to become the first African American principal dancer in the company's 75-year history. Her story inspired many aspiring ballet dancers and broke barriers in the dance community.

2. Rudolf Nureyev

Rudolf Nureyev is another remarkable late starter in ballet. Born in 1938, Nureyev began his dance training at the age of 14. He trained at the Leningrad Choreographic School and later joined the Kirov Ballet. Nureyev's career spanned over four decades and included collaborations with legendary choreographers such as Sir Kenneth MacMilan and John Cranko. He was one of the most influential male dancers of the 20th century, known for his versatility and technical prowess.

3. Natalia Makarova

Natalia Makarova, a Soviet dancer, began her ballet training at a slightly younger age of 12 in the USSR era. She enrolled in the Leningrad Choreographic School, which had a strict and competitive acceptance process. Many students who became too tall or were deemed inadequate dancers were gradually expelled. Makarova's career spanned over five decades, earning her numerous awards and accolades for her performances with the Kirov Ballet and New York City Ballet.

4. Darcy Bussel

Darcy Bussel, a Principal Ballerina of the Houston Ballet, started her training at 18. Unlike Copeland or Makarova, Bussel did not join a ballet academy at a young age. Instead, she was inspired by a documentary and began her ballet training late. Despite the late start, Bussel quickly rose through the ranks to join the Houston Ballet. Her story has inspired many dancers to pursue their dreams, regardless of age.

5. David Hallberg

David Hallberg, a Principal Dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, also started his ballet training at an advanced age. He began his training at age 17 at the School of American Ballet, the official school of the New York City Ballet. Hallberg's technical proficiency and passion for dance quickly propelled him to the ranks of leading dancers in the field.

6. Carmen Corrella

Carmen Corrella, a Principal Ballerina with the Nashville Ballet, started her training at 17, later than most of her peers. Despite the late start, she excelled and joined the Nashville Ballet as a soloist. Her dedication and talent have made her a respected figure in the dance world.

7. Sylvie Guillem

Sylvie Guillem, a renowned French dancer, started her training as a toddler but began her professional career later, at the age of 14. She trained at the Paris Opera Ballet School and later joined the company. Guillem's career has spanned over four decades, during which she has received numerous awards and critical acclaim for her performances.

Supporting Populations of Late Starters

Despite the challenges, late starters in ballet have found success and have inspired many in the dance community. Ballet involves rigorous physical and mental discipline, and the late bloomers who have achieved success are testaments to the fact that age is not the only limiting factor in the world of dance.

These dancers face unique challenges and often have a different approach to their training. Many rely on their advanced physical maturity and life experience to their advantage. Additionally, the support of role models like Misty Copeland and the breaking of racial and gender barriers has made it easier for late starters to pursue their dreams.

Conclusion

From Rudolf Nureyev to Darcy Bussel, the late starters in ballet have brought fresh perspectives and unique talents to the dance world. Their stories serve as inspiration for aspiring dancers who may have started late but are committed to their passion. The late starters in ballet not only break traditional boundaries but also provide a wide range of dancing styles and philosophies, enriching the world of ballet.