Giving students, teachers, and parents an edge in dance education
In the 1920s, wings were all the rage, and many variations existed. The Pump, the Pendulum, the Saw, the Double Back… like time steps, most dancers had a signature wing variation. But there was one variation in particular that caught the public’s attention, and it was the 5-count wing, created by Frank Condos.
Sliding has long been a popular tap step. The novelty of the slide comes from the illusion that the floor has somehow developed a slick surface, giving the impression that the dancer is off balance and could fall at any minute. Discover how it’s done, view classic footage, and learn about the men who made the step famous.
These sweet little snack balls of oats, nuts, and seeds travel well in your dance bag and give you the perfect combination of nutritional energy to help you last until dinner. Try the recipe for yourself!
Young ballet dancers gain integral qualities that lead to success, not only in dance, but in life. Guest and School of the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Director, Melanie Doskocil describes for readers two occasions when it was clear her students had discovered important life lessons – ones that will carry them far toward a successful future.
Lauren’s answer: a resounding ‘Yes!’ But don’t dancers have to be careful about getting bulky? See what Lauren has to say. Plus, learn the difference between anaerobic and aerobic activity and how intensity plays a role. And, discover how to decide if a cross-training activity is right for you.
Mental Performance Consultant, Chantale Lussier-Ley, who works extensively with dancers has already given us her professional advice on “quitting dance” and on nurturing positive rivalry in dance. This time we asked her three quick but big questions on Burnout, Obstacles, Overcommitment. See what she had to say to parents on these important topics.
Long days call for long, lasting energy. The iron in lentils will give you a nutritional boost while their source of soluble fiber will help stabilize your blood sugar. Check out this recipe for Lentil Salad from Joanie Johnson of Motivated Nutrition.
Not all dancers become professionals. However, the arts produce creative thinkers, able to connect pathways that standard students may not initially consider and dancers tend to be successful in many other aspects of education and life. So, starting as early as Kindergarten, dance can be used as a gateway to discuss college with students. Here’s how one educator begins the conversation at different ages and includes families in the dialogue.
Tired of plain, old water? Quench your thirst and stay hydrated with cucumber water instead! Motivated Nutrition’s Joanie Johnson offers Dance Advantage readers “Nutrition on the Move” in her new column dedicated to delicious recipes for dancers on the go.
Muscle fatigue is good but not when dancers push themselves (or are pushed by directors) to injury. We’re ignoring a crucial part of the formula for increasing endurance and enhancing performance. What is that element and why is it important for dancers to learn when enough is enough?
Summers away from home can be stressful. In a second installment on surviving summer intensives, Alison offers advice for dealing with complications like dance divas and messy roommates, and how to handle yourself professionally and with grace when receiving placement in a class level.
Away from home for her second summer, Alison is attending two ballet intensives, one in Connecticut, the other in New York City. As she shares some of the things she’s learned about summer intensives along the way, including how to prepare, handle fears, make friends, and practice respect, she is living the summer dance experience.
