Professional ballet..?

Question:im currently 16 and i want to start ballet. my parents arent really keen on it so im planning to wait till im a bit older (perhaps early 20s) before i start so i can pay for it myself. what does it mean wen they say "professional" ballet. will i still be able to do ballet professionally at that age???

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: im currently 16 and i want to start ballet. my parents arent really keen on it so im planning to wait till im a bit older (perhaps early 20s) before i start so i can pay for it myself. what does it mean wen they say "professional" ballet. will i still be able to do ballet professionally at that age???

Techincally to be a "professional" dancer means that you do this a profession. In the dance world that usually means performing. That is your job and you get paid to do it.

You might be able to develop your skills enough to do that starting that late, but it will partially depend on how much your body naturally takes to the type of movements that ballet requires. For some people, ballet is easier becuase thier bodies have neatural flexibility and turnout. Some don't. There is also a certain level of strength and technique that has to be built up to be able to perform professionally. I am not saying it is impossible, but it does get harder the later you start. Ballet is one of the more unnatural styles of dance, in that the turnout and movements require flexiblity and muscle use that is very unique to the dance style and is not something that people usually develop outside of those types of classes. I am not saying this to try to discurage you, however I think it is very important to be realistic. The ballet world is very difficult, and it is a style of dance that is very hard on your body. Professional ballet is a very difficult profession to get into. I am not saying it is impossible, just that it might be a challenge. It does happen. The woman that teaches my current class did not start dancing until she was 17 and she dances professionally.

However, if you are wanting to dance to enjoy yourself, and possibly to be a part of a dance group, this is something that you could definately do. It is never to late to learn to dance. I danced through college, and then took a few years off and am taking classes again. I really enjoy the feeling of moving and dancing again, and really enjoy taking classes. Anyone can take dance classes, and many studios have a variety of classes for adults at all different levels.

Professional ballet pretty much means that you have actually been taught and are capable of teaching it and performing. It also means you know real ballet moves and terminology and technique, such as pointed toes and turnout. You are never too old. Dance is about expression and you are never to old to express yourself.

hey i do advanced ballet . =]
&& im 12 !
u will be able trust me .
i LOVE ballet <3 .

professional means when you get paid for that like a proper job. just start ballet now :) its fun. and about the bit whether you can still do ballet professionally - yes you can. you'll have to work very hard though :D