Pathways to Ballet: A Comprehensive Guide to Becoming a Professional Dancer

Becoming a professional ballet dancer requires a combination of dedication, physical fitness, and diverse training. This article provides a thorough guide on the

The Early Start

The journey to success as a professional ballet dancer often begins at a young age. Hoping to excel in their field, many young aspiring dancers take inspiration from successful professionals. For instance, there are countless online resources designed for aspiring dancers, such as the NYCB (New York City Ballet) classes available on YouTube. Additionally, Toastmasters can help in developing communication skills, vital in a dance company where competition is intense and driven by ambition.

Full-Time Commitment

It is highly recommended that dancers on track for a professional career begin classes at a very young age, no older than 10 or 11, with possible rare exceptions not exceeding age 12 to 13. These preprofessionals spend 20-30 hours a week in ballet technique classes, almost exclusively in affiliate feeder schools that cater to professional companies. Men can start a bit later due to differing requirements, and they might opt for more specialized classes, such as men's combinations focusing on tours, turns, and jumps. Women, on the other hand, often take variations classes en pointe, character classes, and a weekly modern or jazz class.

Diverse Curriculum

Aside from these core ballet techniques, ballet professionals also diversify their training in multiple styles and complementary areas. For ballet, various techniques such as Russian, French, Danish, and Italian are explored to understand their differences. In modern dance, styles like Graham, Cunningham, Limón, and Horton are studied. Commercial dance includes tap, contemporary, and music video styles, while folk dance covers styles from flamenco to Mauri. Classical complimentary training includes pointe work, mime, and pas de deux, with the option for boys as well. Modern complimentary training includes release technique and improvisation, both of which are crucial for modern pas de deux.

If Nothing Else Then Body Awareness

Body Awareness and Anatomy

Physical understanding is crucial. Topics such as anatomy, kinesiology, pilates, ideo-kinesis, yoga, gyrotonics, aerobics, dietary awareness, and weight training are included to ensure the dancers are educated not only in technique but also in self-care and strength training. The knowledge of muscle groups and skeleton is particularly vital, as dancers require elite physical conditioning.

Theatre and Dance History

Understanding the history of dance, from classical to musical, and theatre and film history, is important. Including film, as dance-on-film is evolving, and dancers need such skills. Artists like Gwen Verdon and her husband Bob Fosse, for example, are essential knowledge in the modern age.

Music and Stage Techniques

Musicality is a fundamental aspect of ballet, thus general music study, instrumental practice, percussion, and vocal practice must be part of the curriculum. Additionally, training in stage techniques, such as lighting, sound, rigging, costume design, and theatre directing, is necessary for complete development.

Choreography and Art and Literature

Learning choreography methods and techniques is crucial for aspiring choreographers and dancers. Art and literature, if not already covered, such as through other theoretical lessons, can provide a broader cultural understanding.

Unfortunately, there are gaps in current dance education. Some dancers struggle with auditions for musicals due to a lack of vocal training. Similarly, inadequate understanding of anatomy and skeletal structure is common among ballet dancers, despite their physical demands. Therefore, it is essential that educational institutions not only focus on technique but also on these vital areas to prepare their students for a successful career in dance.

According to Usher, some older students who had careers in circus were disappointed in the education received at different schools. His point was that while many institutions are proficient in producing skilled dancers, fewer actually groom their students to succeed in the dance industry.

Becoming a professional ballet dancer is a multifaceted pursuit that requires a commitment to physical fitness and a diverse range of training. By understanding the early beginnings, full-time commitment, and varied curriculum, aspiring dancers can set themselves up for a successful career in this demanding art form.