How do we contact you?

jodirose1@hotmail.com

What type of students attend your ballet classes?

Professionals, ex-professionals, intermediate students, teachers and dancers coming back from injuries.

Do you teach young people?

Generally not, except for master classes, school holidays or for private coaching.

When do you teach?

All my classes are in the daytime.

Are you open during the school holidays?

Yes, I continue classes throughout the year, except public holidays. Please check the present schedule for any changes.

I was wondering if you could give me some helpful hints as to how to get my senior girls to wear leotards and tights to class? I am constantly demanding the shedding of unnecessary layers.

This is a sensitive and tricky subject because the real question lies in why a dancer covers up. Many dancers wear leg warmers and jumpers. Yet, often this practice is abused. A student who has warmed up properly prior to class should have no real reason for added layers. Most ‘bun heads’ know the rules. We accept and understand the importance of showing an uncluttered silhouette to our teachers and for ourselves in order to improve the quality of our dancing.

Set a time in the class to shed excess gear. Most schools have a standard dress code. However, the ‘baggy look’ is more evident at studios that do not specialise in ballet.

It is impossible to correct a dancer’s technique if they look like they are going skiing. As a teacher, I find it difficult to correct a covered body and if the reason for covering up is because of insecurities, I discuss the problem personally with the particular student.

I have a favour. I am doing my pre-elementary exam and am very nervous. Could you possibly help me?

Nerves are a part of performing. Try shifting your feelings of worry and fear into excitement. Remember once you have done the work you are halfway there. Technique is only part of the whole. In practice, give attention to displaying ease and happiness in your movements. Examiners want to see that you enjoy dancing. Expressing yourself in such a way will also help you relax. By working to ‘become the music’ you will free yourself from extra tension.

It is also helpful to work on your exam at home. Listen to the music and mark the steps. The night before the exam set out everything you need in your dance bag. Wake up early enough to avoid feeling rushed. Have a light breakfast. Look as lovely as you can. Being well groomed will help you feel the part. It is like preparing for a performance. Think yourself the ‘ballerina’.

Arrive early to the studio. If you are the type of dancer who likes to warm up quietly, just inform your friends that you need time to yourself. Breathe deeply. Think ‘calm’.

Focus on expressing your joy and passion. Think of the examiner as your friend, even if he or she looks stern. Whoever is sitting in front of you wants you to shine. Don’t let their facial expressions worry you. Many people frown when they are thinking.

If you make a mistake it is not a tragedy. The examiner is more interested to see how you recover. Just do your best. Of course you want to pass but don’t just think of the results. Enjoy the journey. Embrace the experience.

For further tips see The Artist’s Way - Imagery in my newsletter section.

I tried my R.A.D. exam, just a week ago and received my results. I passed! The examiner told me in a couple of sections to ‘lengthen my spine’. Could you please explain what she might mean?

When I adjudicate, I use particular phrases to express areas that need attention. In regards to your correction about lengthening the spine, it could mean the following:

• Do not arch your lower back.
• Work to engage and lift abdominal muscles.
• Stand tall through the whole of your back.
• Engage and lengthen your waist away from your hips.
• Push through the floor to feel long through the spine.

All questions welcomed.