Pointe Class Information
Pointe is a thrilling way to take your ballet training to the next level. It can be intimidating. With the right guidance and encouragement from our knowledgable teachers at NDT, dancing on Pointe can be the a thrilling and memorable accomplishment.
ARE YOU READY FOR POINTE?
You need to have been studying ballet for some time to be successful on Pointe. Pointe is an extension of your ballet technique. If a student does not fully understand how to work correctly in ballet slippers, she is not ready for Pointe. She must have mastered essential leg and ankle strength and proper body alignment. Students must also demonstrate the commitment and maturity necessary to handle the demands of Pointe work.
Approval from our Director or your ballet teacher is required to start Pointe. Please check in if you are interested in adding Pointe to your dance training. Pointe dancers are required to be in 6th grade or above and to dance at least twice a week. Ballet and Pointe class should be taken in combination. These classes cannot be taken on separate days.
The following is a check list of what we look for in a Pointe candidate:
1. Student needs to understand the working of the foot in tendu- the foot should lengthen out and stretch. The ankle must be lifted to the ceiling.2. Student must not rolling when standing. The foot must not sickle (or round in) when in tendu.
3. How is the student's turn out (rotation from the hips)? Does she understand how to work her turn out from the top of the legs.
4. Has the student mastered the concept of “pulling up” from the center? Does she rely on the pointe shoe to hold her up or does she have the strength to lift up through the shoes and up the legs?
CHOOSING THE SHOE FOR YOU!
It is difficult for a first time Pointe student to know how a Pointe shoe should feel. Therefore it is equally as difficult to know when a shoe is filling correctly. Here are some guidelines:
*Wear the same leg wear to the fitting as you will wear in class like tights or very thin socks.
*Try on several pairs of shoes. The shoe should not feel incrediblely comfortable. It should fit like a glove; very tightly.
*When you Pointe your foot the shoe should Pointe with your toes.
*If the shoe is too big, it will not respond to the movement of the foot. If the shoe is too small, it will constrict the foot and prohibit it from moving properly. Proper fitting Pointe shoes takes trial and error.
*Be sure to have your teacher check your new shoes before you sew them. Remember you will need ribbons, elastics and padding along with the shoes.
Shops to purchase shoes - Capezios in Wellesley, Dancer’s Image, Newton. You may want to call ahead to be sure a Pointe shoe fitter will be available when you arrive to shop.
Pointe is a fascinating part of the ballet world and an experience a dancer will never forget! Check in if you have any questions.
