My home studio in New Orleans did not have any heat. My teacher would say, "What's the point? Make your own heat." Besides, New Orleans is famous for jungle-like humidity and long-lasting summers. But still... It does get cold sometimes. Now and then, but especially in February around Mardi Gras ... Read more »
Blog
Cold Days Bring Thoughts of Summer Intensives!
Now, I know what you're going to say... My Summer Intensive was totally screwed last year because of the Covid Pandemic... And I agree. You are right.Many students are barely hanging on right now. Fighting to maintain their technique. Struggling to keep their dreams. Let's try to help each other! ... Read more »
Thank you to Pointe Magazine!
In the past week, Pointe Work: Ten Reasons Why and When, was highlighted by Pointe Magazine as one of 2020's '9 New Reads for Dance Fans Young and Old.' Many thanks for the recognition and review! Such an honor to be in great company, and a spectacular fini to 2020. Check out the ... Read more »
Christmas Eve Class
My teacher, Miss Lelia Haller, had a Christmas Eve tradition that I would like to share. She held class at ten in the morning on Christmas Eve. A single two-hour class encompassing all levels. Everyone was invited from Basic to Advanced. It took a lot of effort to get to the class, an hour and a ... Read more »
The Show Must Go On!
This time of year always puts me in the mind of the Nutcracker. Following Halloween, the memories of going to class in the dark, rehearsals through the weekends in preparation for school performances and full audience shows, and of course, the sound of Tchaikovsky on repeat come flooding back! As ... Read more »
Boys in Ballet
Ballet training for young men can be of enormous benefit in muscular development, discipline, and mental focus. Still, even today, ballet is often not considered a viable option by parents in the United States. Male dancers in Europe and Russia are well-respected, and I believe the prevailing ... Read more »