WELCOME TO THE STUDIO
STEP 1: PREPARE FOR CLASS
Ballet 101
Ballet attire includes a leotard, tights and ballet slippers. A skirt is optional, though many dancers in London opt for a skirt. Hair should be pulled back into a neat bun, though for adult classes it is not required (depends on the teachers/choreographer). A dancer will often carry extra hair pins, ties and some use other accessories to help get the perfect bun shape.
STEP 2: GO TO THE STUDIO
Navigating London TfL might mean letting the rest of the company know you might be late!
STEP 3: ARRIVE AT THE STUDIO FIND YOUR SPOT AT THE BARRE
Maybe say "hello" to friends, or meet someone new!
STEP 4: TIME FOR CLASS
Ballet 101
Ballet classes are typically 90 minutes long and follow the same structure each time. Classes start at the barre following a set order of exercises to warm up and practice technique. The second part of the class moves into the centre of the studio. This also follows a set structure from adage (slower exercises), pirouettes (turns) and then allegro (jumps and leaps where dancers will move from one side of the space to the other). Below is a sample of exercises.
Barre - Plie
Barre - Fondu
Barre - Grand Battement
Centre - Adage
Centre - Pirouette
Centre - Grand Allegro
Especially on a weekend, dancers like to indulge in a post-class meal together!
How was class now that we've returned to studios?
In [studio] you work harder because other [dancers] push you or teach you how to be better...
The first class back was really emotional.
I missed dancing and moving through space. The studio is freeing!
Not being able to perform has impacted my motivation to keep dancing. It feels so good to move again.
[In the studio], you're not just trying to do a move, you have to occupy as much space as you can... extend to fill the music!
In the studio can you really be spontaneous. A live musician lets you adapt the exercises in the moment.
I’ve really missed [dancing] with a friend - attempting the same moves - I missed that the most. Moving together.
Back to office, you [dress up for it]. We're all performers. Back to studio meant - leotard, tights - like you're performing a little, again.
I missed the mirror - the feedback on the small things you can't see
[on Zoom].
Dancing [in the studio] gets you out of your headspace [because] you're out of your everyday environment.