Cynthia King is the director of Cynthia King Dance Studio in Brooklyn, NY. Her love for animals originated in the connection she had with her dog as a young child and her passion for animal rights began with literature on the subject. Since 1967 she has eaten only a plant-based diet but consistently faced the challenge of recommending ballet slippers to her students as even canvas slippers use animal skin for the soles. It became her mission to provide an affordable alternative to leather-soled slippers. Find out more about Ms. King and Cynthia King Vegan Ballet Slippers.
Beyond the Bubble
5 Considerations Before You Buy Ballet Shoes For Little Feet
If you are a parent with an aspiring dancer, nothing is more exciting for both of you than getting all the necessary apparel, including a first or new pair of ballet shoes. However, for little feet, it is very important to get the right shoes at the right price. Consider these 5 points before you buy ballet slippers for a young student.
Tools for Tap Improvisation: The Time Step
Improvisation is an absolutely essential part of dance education and perhaps more so in tap than in other styles. Tap dance is a very virtuosic art form and the ability to ‘think on your feet’ is absolutely necessary in order to experience everything that tap has to offer. Learn how to use a time step structure as a starting point to hone improvisational skills and express individuality.
The Desegregation of Dance and the Pioneers Who Made It Possible
Dance Advantage contributor, Roger Lee reflects on Black History Month, focusing in particular on a time when dance, along with the rest of America, was segregated. Giving a brief history of ballet dancer and pioneer, Arthur Mitchell, Roger expresses the inspiration that Mitchell and other trailblazers have provided for young black dancers like himself.
Terpsichorus: Discussing Entity — Wayne McGregor/Random Dance
Terpsichorus means to delight in dance and is an open group event to encourage conversation and commentary on dance film, video, or books. Join us in our premiere discussion of the film and dance work Entity (Wayne McGregor/Random Dance). All are welcome. Join anytime!
Women in Dance: Undervalued in Supporting AND Leadership Roles?
As Artistic Director of Ballet Memphis, Dorothy Gunther Pugh is one of only a handful of women at the helm of ballet companies in the United States, where leadership roles (particularly for large budget organizations) are primarily filled by men. In her contribution for Dance Advantage, Ms. Pugh addresses what she’s witnessed as a woman in the field and points out imbalances during the training years which discourage young women from looking beyond the corps and moving into leadership roles.
