Ballerina Pointe Dance Survival
How to Cope in a Ballet Company

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First jobs in a ballet company are often a culture shock.

Student dancers are used to having at least 30 hours per week of intensive dancing. Going from such a rigorous routine to a complete new environment will naturally lead to some dancers feeling lost or unnoticed.

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After all, they would have just gone from taking leads in school productions to being thrown into the corps de ballet.

Having achieved the desired contract, it can suddenly seem a lot different to what they would have expected. Dancers may be daning a lot less than what they would have thought, their pointe dance could majorly increase or decrease.

It's essential that performance ability is not only kept hold of but improved. This could involve taking additional classes, or doing private practice.

In a ballet company you have to become your own mentor and keep on track with what you need to work on. Your teachers are no longer there to spoon feed you in pointe dance so you have to take initiative and work for yourself.

No dancer can have two months off and then suddenly expect themselves to dance 100%.

Holidays should be used wisely - obviously it's vital to rest and recuperate, then start to build yourself back up to your top physical fitness.

The first year in the "real world" of ballet can be an huge step, especially if you've had to travel overseas to be in the company. This means settling into a foreign country, getting used to a new language and adapting to the environment.

Here's some words of wisdom, and advice from directors offered to new members -

1. Never stop learning

2. Look for new ways to move and express yourself

3. Join in all rehearsals even if you are not cast

4. Watch and learn from other company members

5. Do corps de ballet well, even if you're yearning for those soloist roles - you have to start somewhere.

6. Work hard, consistently and always know your understudy roles

7. Take responsibility for your own health, both physically and mentally.

8. Be mindful of etiquette and behave with courtesy and respect.

The first job in the dancing world can be exhilarating and exciting - it all depends on how you deal with the changes.

You are responsible for how you feel. If dance is your passion, then love what you do and work with joy. That way, you'll have no trouble perfecting every detail.