So you want to dance: Part 1 of series Part 3 of series Postings discussion This link allows you to see others thoughts on this piece and contribute to the debate yourself if you want. We look to guarantee this link for a number of years, though after 3-6 months the page may be closed to further additions. Ballet.co's Doing Dance forum reviews by Anjuli Bai

First it's important to know what not to expect. You are not going to be a ballerina in one class. And, most probably no one else in the class is a ballerina either. It will help you to fit in and feel more comfortable if you come to class appropriately attired.

Oh Yes! What should I wear?

It's a good idea to ask the teacher beforehand what kind of dance attire she prefers. Some teachers have a definite dress code, not only as to color but also as to style. For instance, a thong leotard worn along with shiny iridescent pink tights and ballet slippers with huge pink ribbon bows might not be what the teacher has in mind. Ask her. You can also ask her where to buy them; she might have a particular store that she has learned to trust.

As for slippers, your teacher can advise what she prefers: leather, canvas, split sole, etc. The shoes should fit like a glove, neither too tight (a recipe for tendonitis) nor too loose (you will trip). If the shoes, especially leather, get a bit large over time you can always wear a pair of socks. So, buy them to fit like a glove. They will be attached to your feet either via elastic or ribbons (or both). Before you wear the shoes and BEFORE you sew on either elastics or ribbons, have your teacher check the fit. Then ask her to show you exactly how to sew on the elastics/ribbons (men don't usually wear ribbons). When you sew them on, fancy doesn't count, strength does. Sew them on as if your life depends on it, because it does.

Basic attire consists of leotard, tights, slippers plus sports bra for women, dance belt for men. If your teacher allows it, a sweater or leg warmers if its cold. Hair must be firmly contained and no jewelry; this is for everyone's safety.

This is exciting, I can't wait so can I wear my slippers and dance around a bit in my house?

It is generally not advisable to practice by yourself, and save your slippers for ballet class.

If I don't get a chance to observe a class, what should I expect a studio to be like?

The basic equipment for a ballet studio is a barre (either attached to the wall or free standing), some mirrors, provision for music (either live or taped), but most importantly the floor should be sprung. It must be a raised floor, not sitting on cement. Your knees (to say nothing of your spine and teeth) will suffer; sooner rather than later.

How long is class and what happens if everyone else already knows the stuff?

Generally ballet class is 90 minutes long. The first half is work at the barre which is a warmup for the work in the center (no barre). However, sometimes beginner class is only 60-75 minutes long. Personally, I don't consider this adequate, but some teachers do. If you are starting a class in which the other students have been there for a while you might consider asking your teacher for a private lesson initially just to familiarize you with the positions of the feet, arms, head and body. Plus, some basic things like pliés, (knee bends), relevés, (rises), etc.

Will I be holding everyone else in class back?

A good teacher won't allow that to happen. If some of the people have been there for a while she will manage to have each student more forward at the appropriate pace. That's part of her job. So don't be self-conscious. As long as you pay attention, ask your questions politely (if they are really personal questions ask them after class), work and try hard, everyone will appreciate your efforts and be glad to have you.

OK - now I'm home, and, uh oh, I don't remember ANYTHING!

Don't fret. It is estimated that the retention rate for any single class is 5% or less. Learning ballet is not simply about the mind incorporating the concepts, but also the body has to change to accommodate those concepts. This takes time. Ballet is a cumulative learning experience and is done very slowly. So, be proud of yourself that you have had the courage to take on a brand new learning experience. It might also help to buy yourself a small ballet vocabulary book with some pictures and a notebook into which you can write down the stuff you do remember, along with questions that occur to you to ask the teacher next time.

(And don't forget to send me tickets too your first performance in Swan Lake).