November 2012 | Issue II
Dancing for a cause
Happy Holidays
Great gifts for prima ballerinas + hip hop divas
Local dancers making a difference
In the Spotlight
The
Nutcracker Fun facts about the world’s most famous ballet
Dancing with Dad on opening night
e c n Da sives 101 n e t In your r o f w o n Planning
ram
e prog c n a d r e summ
justdancemagazine.com $4.00
competitions + conventions Competitions Shine Dance Festival shinedancefestival.com
Okanagan – Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre: April 4 to 7 Mission – Clarke Foundation Theatre: April 18 to 21 North Vancouver – Centennial Theatre: May 2 to 5
Next Level Hip Hop Competition nextlevelhiphop.ca
Surrey – Chuck Bailey Rec Centre: April 12 to 13
Kids Help Phone Challenge showtimedancepromotions.com Surrey – Bell Centre: April 5 to 7
Dance Power dancepower.com
Burnaby 1– Michael J. Fox Theatre: March 5 to 10 Surrey – Bell Performing Arts Centre: March 25 – 31 Chilliwack – Chilliwack Cultural Centre: April 3 to 7 Burnaby 2 – Michael J. fox Theatre: May 6 to 13
Peak Invitational
Great Canadian Dance Challenge
showtimedancepromotions.com
Maple Ridge – The ACT Arts Centre & Theatre: May 22 to 27
Surrey – Bell Performing Arts Centre: February 28 to March 5
Kelowna – Community Theatre: May 8 to 12
Conventions
Burnaby – Michael J. Fox Theatre: April 13 to 21
Dream Team Dance Festival
iDance Convention
showtimedancepromotions.com
idanceconvention.com
North Vancouver – Centennial Theatre: April 23 to April 28
Surrey – Surrey Arts Centre: May 3 to 5
Surrey – Sheraton Guilford: December 1 & 2, 2012
Abbotsford – Abbey Arts Centre: May 3 to May 12
Synergy Dance
Triple Threat Dance Convention
peakinvitational.ca
Whistler – Westin Resort & Spa: May 17 to 20
Thunderstruck Canada
synergydance.ca
Kelowna – Rotary Centre for the Arts: March 1 to 3
thunderstruckcanada.com
Surrey – Bell Performing Arts Centre: April 15 to 21
Maple Ridge – The ACT Arts Centre & Theatre: April 6 to 8
Burnaby – Michael J. Fox Theatre: May 1 to 4
Festival du ballet festivalduballet.com
Victoria – University of Victoria: May 18 to 20
Surrey – Surrey Arts Centre: May 14 to16
Prince George – Vanier Hall: May 24 to 25
Surrey Festival of Dance
Core Dance
Surrey – Surrey Arts Centre: April 2 to 30
Nanaimo, BC – Nanaimo Port Theatre: May 8 to 11
surreyfestival.com
Star Talent Dance Competition
startalentdancecompetitions.com Maple Ridge – The ACT Arts Centre & Theatre: April 12 to 14 Burnaby – Michael J Fox Theatre: April 26 to 28 Chilliwack – Chilliwack Cultural Centre: May 10 to 12
Terpsichore terpsichore.ca
Chilliwack – Chilliwack Cultural Centre: May 23 – 24 North Vancouver – Centennial Theatre: May 9 to 11
coredance.ca
triplethreatdance.com
Vancouver – The Westin Bayshore: December 8 & 9, 2012
Street Groove groovestreet.net
Surrey – Guilford Recreation Centre: January 26 & 27
If you would like your competition or convention listed in just dance! please contact us at: info@justdancemagazine.com.
VANCOUVER - SHERATON GUILDFORD - DEC 1-2 PSSST...H U RRY! GRO U PO N RATE
$80
By Racquel Foran & Andrea Albanese
Dancer with a Cause...................................................................................... By Josie Padro
Balance:
Time for Family & Friends............................................................................... By Racquel Foran
History of Dance: The Nutcracker.............................................................................................. By Racquel Foran
6
11 12
just dance! wants to Know:
16 Dance Intensives 101.................................................................................. 18 What is the best dance gift you have received or would like to receive?.. By: Andrea Albanese & Liza Anderson
20
12
28
In the Spotlight...................................................................................... Emma Heiden {& Her Dad!}
20
By Racquel Foran
Great Posture, Strong Dancer............................................................... By: Misha Waite
24
26 Foot Facts for Fabulous Feet...................................................................... 28 Gift Ideas...................................................................................................... By: Andrea Albanese & Sarah Brewer Clowes
Directory Listings................................................................................... Cover: Emma Heiden in soldier costume for Goh Ballet’s 2011 Nutcracker. Credit: Valeta Heiden
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In This Issue...
2 Publishers’ Letters............................................................................................ 4 Competitions + Conventions.........................................................................
P ublish e rs ’ L e tt e rs
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ARock Publishing Group Ltd. 34A - 2755 Lougheed Hwy Suite 212 Port Coquitlam, BC V3B 5Y9 justdancemagazine.com facebook.com/jdmagazinebc General Inquiries & Sales info@justdancemagazine.com Co-publisher & Managing Editor Racquel Foran racquel@justdancemagazine.com Co-publisher & Public Relations Andrea Albanese andrea@justdancemagazine.com Art Director (Ad production, layout & image submission guidelines) Laura Bellis laura@justdancemagazine.com Staff Photographer Karen Fisher-Hagel Operations Assistant Meagan O’Connor just dance! magazine is available for $24 per year (6 issues). To subscribe visit justdancemagazine.com Copyright © just dance! magazine 2012: Material appearing in this publication may not be reproduced in print or electronically without written permission of the publisher, and without proper credit given. Editorial viewpoints and opinions do not necessarily reflect the view of the publishers. Advertising and Photo Submissions: Ads must be submitted as a PDF’s or a high-res TIFF file. Photos embedded in ads must be converted to CMYK. All ads and photo submissions must be a minimum of 300 dpi. Please contact the art director at laura@justdancemagazine.com with any questions regarding advertisement or photo submission guidelines. Printing provided by: Westwood Printing and Signs westwoodprinting.com sales@westwoodprinting.com Tel: 604 464 8840
4 just dance! | November 2012
ell, we made it! We have managed to publish a second issue of just dance! And we couldn’t have done it without the support and enthusiasm of the BC dance community. Starting a new venture is always tough, and there are times that the long hours and lack of reward can get you down. But since our Premier Issue was published on October 5, every time I started to feel like maybe we had taken on more than we can manage, I would receive encouraging words from a studio owner, or a young dancer would tell me how much they loved the magazine, or a parent would express how happy there are to finally have a local resource, and I would be reenergized. The result is a second issue that I am even more proud of than the first. Once again we have stuck to our vision and made young local dancers the stars of just dance! – photos of more than 25 BC dancers appear in this issue. These dancers deserve the recognition. Stories
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ound Two has successfully made it to the presses! It’s been an exciting six weeks…and there’s so much to share. Always more than we could possibly fit in the magazine. I’m angling for a blog but my wise and practical partner has convinced me to hold off until we have a more manageable workload—even though I promised I would only write once a week. Stay tuned…. It’s been crazy busy for us—meeting people, writing, interviewing, and selling advertising, which, to be honest, is the hardest part of our job as we’re not really salespeople. However, we’re so passionate about the magazine that somehow we manage to get it all done. We’re learning more and more every day. We’ve met some great people from the local dance scene who offered support and advice: Emily Molnar of Ballet BC; Artemis Gordon of Arts Umbrella; Cristina Graziano of Ballet Jorgen; Tarzan Dan of TDFoto; Bo and Stephanie Spassof of The Rock School of Dance; the Wharton family of Wharton Event Management and MOVE Athletics; and Ainslie Cyopik of AinslieWear, just to name a few. We’ve also had the chance to meet
like that of Audrey De Boer (p. 6) whose tireless fundraising for Juvenile Diabetes inspires us, or young Emma Heiden (p. 20) whose enthusiasm for performing is contagious, are what make us want to publish this magazine. We also didn’t forget to inform our readers, too, with tips on how to keep your feet fabulous, and your posture strong and straight. Of course, it takes a lot of team effort to produce just dance! and many people have stepped up to help us that deserve a little recognition. For this issue in particular I want to thank my daughter Meagan O’Connor who has been a great support and cheerleader since just dance! was simply an idea. She has also dedicated time to label magazines, update Twitter and man the just dance! table at dance conventions – a pretty impressive, and much appreciated contribution from a 13-year-old! I hope that you enjoy reading this issue of just dance! as much as I enjoyed putting it together with my partner Andrea and the rest of our team. Keep dancing!
— Racquel
studio owners, dancers, instructors and parents and we’re so appreciative of your enthusiasm, support and words of encouragement. A big thank you goes out to Alex and Joanne Pesusich of Groove Street Productions for letting us have a table at their convention and to Sheu Fortunato of iDance where you can find us on December 1st and 2nd. Thanks to our fans and subscribers—we really appreciate the postings and ‘shares’ on Facebook and Twitter. But again, as always, our biggest thanks go out to our advertisers. Thanks for believing that just dance! magazine is making a difference by building a great dance community that shares information and resources with dancers that are practical, educational and fun as well as celebrating the achievements of our local dancers . Finally, last but not least, many thanks to Laura Bellis, our lovely and talented graphic designer who also believes in this project enough to work for far less than she’s worth and always, to my lovely partner Racquel and her incredibly helpful daughter Meagan who is next in line to get a salary! Best,
— Andrea
It all started with a jazz tech class...Danzmode Productions founder & Artistic Director, Rachael Poirier believes
that dancers must have a strong technical background—to become a better dancer but also to keep them safe and strong. She feels anyone pursuing a career in dance needs to be versatile—a well-rounded dancer, not a specialist in one genre. And she knows what she’s doing; her success rate speaks for itself as many of Danzmode’s alumni have moved on to professional careers in dance. Graduates of this boutique dance school are working worldwide from the stages of Broadway, under the tent at Cirque du Soleil, in film and television studios in LA and NY, as contestants on SYTYCD/SYTYCDC as well as working as company dancers, back-up dancers, industrial dancers, dance instructors, chorographers and studio owners.
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a life outside the studio—an important factor for happy and healthy teenagers. For dancers wanting to take their dance to the next level, Danzmode offers company classes for levels ranging from mini to elite and their company groups are what they’re best known for; however, Danzmode also offers classes to dancers as young as 3. You don’t have to be an elite dancer to train at Danzmode Productions, that’s what they are there for... to build you into the best dancer you can be.
Photo credits: Bryn Kinders and gtfx.com
eekly tech classes are required for all dancers and form the foundation of how Danzmode trains their dancers— carefully and through quality instructors. Choreography and technique classes are separate and taught by specialists in their genres. Independent choreographers expose dancers to the latest trends. Training hours are used responsibly and even Danzmode’s most elite dancers train less than 20 hours per week. Fewer hours help avoid injuries and also allow dancers to keep up with their academics & have
Come visit the studio to try one of Rachael Poirier’s famous Open Jazz Tech classes! Your First class is always free! Contact Danzmode Productions for further information: 7209 Curragh Ave | 604.294.4677 info@danzmodeproductions.com | danzmodeproductions.com
By: Josie Padro
Dancer with a Cause Audrey De Boer Dares to Believe 6 just dance! | November 2012
Karen Fisher-Hagel
Audrey De Boer.
O
n a typical school day
to help get rid of JD, which so far has
Audrey De Boer’s mom
no cure. Her first step was to write a
has to call her down to
simple letter to some friends. She
breakfast more than
explained that she had been
once. It takes Audrey a while
diagnosed with diabetes and
to make an appearance, not
how it affects her life. She asked
because she can’t get out of bed,
people to donate what they could
but because she’s in her room
to help with diabetes research. That
dancing.
letter raised $8,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation–and she didn’t stop there.
affects her everyday life.
studies jazz, ballet, and modern
Audrey continued her quest to
To date, she’s raised almost
improv at Defy Gravity Dance
raise money for research by selling
$30,000 for juvenile diabetes
Company in Richmond, BC. Her
hand-made soap and jewelry and
research. In 2011 she was named
favourite class is lyrical because
by putting on a concert where she
fundraising Rookie of the Year by
it allows her to express a range of
sang. Last spring Audrey organized
the Juvenile Diabetes Research
emotions. But dance isn’t Audrey’s
a Bollywood dance, dinner and
Foundation and this year she
only passion, she’s also a tireless
silent auction. More than 100
received a Rick Hansen Difference
fundraiser for a very personal cause,
people attended the event and
Maker award.
juvenile diabetes (JD), a condition
were treated to Indian food
she’s had since she was six years old.
and entertainment by Bhangra
Besides tearing up the floor boards at home, ten-year-old Audrey
dancers who also threw in some When she found out she had JD,
surprise hip hop and belly dance
Audrey needed to learn how to
moves. Audrey helped keep the
test her blood sugar levels and give
event running smoothly and spoke
herself insulin injections. She had to make sure she was eating the right
A Few Facts • Worldwide, almost 200 people a day develop juvenile diabetes. • In Canada, about 300,000
foods to avoid dangerous blood
people have juvenile diabetes.
sugar highs and lows. (Find out more
• Juvenile diabetes, usually
about JD in the side bar “Juvenile Diabetes: It’s All About the Sugar”).
diagnosed between the ages
“When I was first diagnosed it was
Type 1 diabetes.
of 8 and 30, is sometimes called
really hard. I was scared to poke myself – because s it’s [with] a needle, but now I’m used to it. It’s
Audrey (right) with her award at the Rick Hansen Relay.
really easy now,” says Audrey.
• Type 2 diabetes, most often diagnosed in adults, is different because the body is able to produce insulin, but isn’t able to use it properly.
Once she learned how to test her
• In one year, someone with Type
blood sugar and give herself insulin, Charmis De Boer x2
to the gathering about how JD
she decided she wanted
1 diabetes will use around 1,460
to do what she could
needles and poke their fingers 2,190 times to test their blood. —Juvenile Diabetes Research Audrey (far right) meeting Rick Hansen.
Foundation
November 2012 | just dance! 7
Juvenile Diabetes (JD) – It’s All About the Sugar
the body can’t function, and in
Eat too many jelly beans? No
stop working for reasons not yet
problem for most of us. Those
known. People with JD can live a
sweet chewy morsels get digested and when the sugar enters our blood, a hormone called insulin helps us use sugar for energy or stores the extra. Thanks to insulin, we always have just the right amount of sugar in our bloodstream, so that we have the energy we need to dance, think
extreme cases can result in serious illness. In JD, the cells that produce insulin
normal life, but they have to test their blood sugar every day and give themselves insulin injections. (Injections are necessary because if it were given in a pill, insulin would be destroyed in the stomach.) They also have to keep a close eye on what they eat so their body doesn’t
or do any other kind of activity.
get too much or too little fuel.
Too much sugar in the blood
Some of the symptoms of diabetes
can, over time, cause damage
are thirstiness, weight loss, and
to the eyes, kidneys and blood
tiredness. Find out more about
vessels. Too little blood sugar and
juvenile diabetes at jdrf.ca.
Audrey practicing at Defy Gravity.
This dance season is going to be busy for Audrey. She’ll be joining the company program at Defy Gravity. She’ll also be keeping up with jazz and lyrical classes; AND she’ll be playing soccer and taking singing lessons. It’s fitting that her most recent lyrical piece was set to the song Dare to Believe, by Boyce Avenue, because she’s a girl who not only dares to believe in a cure for juvenile diabetes, but is doing belief come true. Says Audrey,“ I just hope there’s a cure because then I can live free of needles.” 8 just dance! | November 2012
Karen Fisher-Hagel
something to help make that
Putting the Fun in Fundraising Got a cause? Take a few tips from Audrey and write a letter, organize an event or sell some of your
Seasonal Gifts
(jackpot!) hockey tickets can raise
something special around
handmade crafts. Start out with a
the Christmas holiday season.
small project and as you get more
Make up some crafty items like
experience move onto bigger
knitted wrist-and leg-warmers or
projects. Here are a few ideas to
a spa package, food basket, or
Everyone’s in the market for
quite a lot of money. Whatever you do, make it a team-building experience and
handmade stuffed animals.
remember to have fun!
get you started.
Plant Sales Contact a plant nursery in your area to see if they’ll supply preordered plants. This works really
Silent Auctions
Silent auctions can be a great way to raise money. They can be quite a bit of work because you have to ask for donations, but it’s usually not too difficult if you have
well with poinsettias for Christmas,
a group of people working on it
Easter lilies at Easter, or hanging
together. Even a few items like
baskets for Mother’s Day. People can pre-order the plants, pay in advance and pick them up on an
for voting us on to Burnaby’s A-List!
arranged delivery day.
Bake Sales Everyone loves a cupcake! These days you can’t sell sweets at schools, but you might be able to set up a concession at a dance competition or community event. Other bake sale items that fly off the table are rice crispy squares
for us on onto to forvoting voting us Burnaby’s A-List!
Burnaby’s A-List!
FREE TRIAL CLASS with this ad
and brownies – try some sugar free recipes in consideration of those with diabetes. Ballet • Tap • Jazz Contemporary • Lyrical • Hip Hop
Ballet • Tap • Jazz www.douglasballet.com 202 – 4199 Lougheed Highway Contemporary • Lyrical • Hip Hop Burnaby, BC 604-420-0204
www.douglasballet.com 202Ballet – 4199 Lougheed • Tap • Jazz Highway Contemporary • Lyrical • Hip Hop Burnaby, BC 604-420-0204 www.douglasballet.com 202 – 4199 Lougheed Highway Burnaby, BC 604-420-0204
November 2012 | just dance! 9
More Dancers with Causes… By Racquel Foran BC is full of young dancers who care about the world they live in. In studios across the province kids put their heads together to think of ways they can give back to their community and the world. Following are just a few examples of dancers giving back. Two different groups of dancers from Douglas Ballet Academy (DBA) in Burnaby are giving back this season. Sisters Margarita (10) and Lizzie (8) Filipovic-Bajamic are growing out their beautiful locks only to cut it all off this June to donate for wigs for cancer patients. As their mom Angela
From the left to the right: Megan Almeida; Laura Sullivan; Reshea Harris; Daniella Pettenon; Jenny Lian; Erin Charpentier; Rea Harris; Emily Wismer; Jasmine Dobbin; Laurel Wismer; Raquel Thorsen; Charity Yuen; Alexandra Schmidt; Meagan Ekelund (center).
explained, “Providing hair for wigs is such an easy thing for people to do, but can mean so much to a person who receives a wig.” A group of the girls’ studio mates also put their dancing to a good cause. When DBA instructor Meagan Ekelund received a request from imagine1day (a non-profit that raises funds for education for Ethiopian children), for a group of dancers to perform at a fundraising benefit called 1dream1school, she had no problem finding willing volunteers. Thirteen gave up their time for extra rehearsals and the performance. Also in October the apprentice dancers from Spiral Dance Co. in
Lizzie and Margarita performing in White Christmas.
which supports individuals and their
about, or if you would like to help
loved ones through life-ending
any of these dancers with their
experiences.
causes, contact us at
White Rock gave their time to the
If you know a dancer with a cause
Annual Surrey Hospice Gala fundraiser,
who you think we should write
Web Links: cancer.ca imagine1day.org 1dream1school.org surreyhospice.com
10 just dance! | November 2012
info@justdancemagazine.com.
Bottom: Abigail Wong-de Leon
dancers (pictured), ages seven to 16,
By: Racquel Foran
I
f you are reading this article chances are sleep and school are the only things you dedicate
more time to than dance. You have probably had to sacrifice sleepovers, birthday parties and family gatherings for your passion. And we at just dance! applaud your commitment and hard work; but we want to remind you that it is important to remember to make time for your family and friends outside of dance, too. Spending time with family and socializing with friends both play important roles in your development and well-being, so neither should be neglected. Many studies have shown that kids who spend regular quality time with their family are more self-confident, get better grades in school, and are better communicators and problem solvers. And when it comes to family, not only are they the people who always have your back, but there is a lot to learn from them too. Mom and dad and the rest of your extended family have a wealth of life experience and they are great people to turn to when you need some advice, or just a sounding board. Friends are important too. They provide you with a sense of
“.. when it comes to family, not only are they the people who always have your back, but there is a lot to learn from them too.”
Pals since birth, Meagan (C.A.P.A.) and Nellie (Defy Gravity) catch up over milkshakes.
belonging; give advice; teach
friends who you dance with, but
Making Meals More Social
this isn’t always the case and that’s
there are no extra activities
you about conflict resolution and cooperation; and offer stability when you are feeling stressed. You are lucky if you have some close
okay. If your closest friend doesn’t dance, then it is extra important to your friendship that you let her know that she is special to you even though you might not have much time to hang out with her.
Choose one night a week when taking place. In advance of the night select a meal – themes like Mexican, Japanese, or Italian are always fun – then assign everyone in the family a responsibility. For example Mom might be
The best way to find time for
responsible for picking up the
friends is to plan ahead. Choose a
required ingredients the night
time of the week when you know
before; dad and you make dinner;
both you and your friend are free,
little sister sets and clears the
and then make it a standing date.
table; and brother does the after
When it comes to friends or family you don’t have to commit a lot of time, just quality time. Make some mugs of hot chocolate and sit down and share them with your siblings; attend your friends’ extracurricular events; join your parents when they take the dog
dinner clean-up; responsibilities can rotate from week to week. This way all the work doesn’t fall on one person, everyone gets involved, and you all get to spend some quality time together. You can plan a theme meal with friends, too!
for a walk; or give grandma a quick phone call. Everyone will appreciate the gesture and you will feel better for taking the time. November 2012 | just dance! 11
B alanc e
Balance: Time for Family & Friends
the Nutcracker Sonia Rodriguez performs in the National Ballet’s Nutcracker.
By: Racquel Foran
D
uring the month of December, in theatres throughout the
performances of the timeless
at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
classic. The Royal City Youth Ballet
Even Max & Ruby performed the
Company will be travelling their
Nutcracker at the Bell Performing
show to several venues throughout
world, ballet companies will
Arts Centre in early November;
Greater Vancouver beginning
ensuring that the little ones get
perform one of the most beloved
the end of November; Goh Ballet
hooked on the tradition at a very
ballets of all time; the Nutcracker.
will showcase their talented
young age.
And Greater Vancouver dance
students in their annual Nutcracker
enthusiasts won’t miss out.
presentation at the Centre in
Between all of these productions
Vancouver; and Ballet BC will
approximately 300 young local
This year local dance lovers can
be presenting Canada’s Royal
dancers will perform as soldiers,
choose between three different
Winnipeg Ballet in the Nutcracker
mice, sugar plum fairies, and
Bruce Zinger
The World’s Most Popular Ballet
history of danc e
party girls and boys in the month
Maryinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg,
of December. But where did this
home to the famous Kirov Ballet.
Christmas tradition begin?
The ballet is a simplified version of
The original Nutcracker story was
the original story. It is a charming
actually an adult fairy tale entitled
tale of a girl named Clara, who falls
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King
asleep on Christmas Eve with a toy
by German writer E.T.A. Hoffman. It
Nutcracker cradled in her arms.
was first published in 1816 and the children in the story were named Top photo and all but mice: Bruce Zinger. Mice photo: Bruce Monk.
r
Megan Storm Hill and artists of the National Ballet perform in the Nutcracker.
Marie and Fritz. Many years later a French writer by the name of Alexandre Dumas rewrote the story
She dreams of being attacked by an army of mice led by an evil mouse king. Her Nutcracker rallies his army of toy soldiers to battle the mice, only to find themselves
so it was more appropriate and appealing for children. It was in this new version that Marie’s name was changed to Clara. The chief master of the Russian Imperial Ballet, Marius Petipa, liked the new story and thought it would make a good ballet. He hired the Russian composer Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky to write music and enlisted his assistant Lev Ivanov to choreograph the production. It was first performed in 1892 at the
Middle right: Artists of the National Ballet perform in the Nutcracker. Bottom right: Artists of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet perform as mice.
The National Ballet of Canada uses 187 costumes in each performance of The Nutcracker and since 1995 they have washed 4,222 loads of laundry to clean those costumes.
Regardless of which company puts on the production, Nutcracker costumes, like these from RWB, are always elaborate.
November 2012 | just dance! 13
history of danc e
In addition to composing the music for The Nutcracker, Tchaikovsky also wrote the music for Sleeping Beauty and Swan Lake. These are three of the most popular and frequently performed ballets of all time. and so on. The celebration ends with the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Left: (left to right) Stanislava Belinskaya as Clara, Lydia Rubtsova as Marianna and Vassily Stukolkin as Fritz, in the original production of The Nutcracker. Imperial Mariinsky Theatre, St. Petersburg, 1892. Right: Tchaikovsky.
gallant knight dancing a pas de deux. And then Clara awakens under her Christmas tree with the
outmatched. But Clara springs to
In act two Clara and the Prince
their rescue and throws her slipper
travel to the Kingdom of Sweets
at the mouse king. This is all that is
where they are greeted by the
needed for the Nutcracker to make
Sugar Plum Fairy. After hearing
his move and defeat the army
of Clara’s bravery, the fairy plans
of mice. Spellbound by Clara’s
a celebration of dances. Each
bravery, the Nutcracker comes
dance represents a different
was presented outside of the
alive and turns into a handsome
treat: the Spanish dance is the
country for the first time at Sadler’s
prince. The prince invites Clara to
chocolate dance; the Chinese
Wells Theatre in London, England
join him on a great adventure to
dance, the tea dance; the
in 1934. Although an abridged
the Kingdom of Sweets.
Arabian dance the coffee dance,
version was performed in the
toy Nutcracker in her arms. Was it really just a dream? More than forty years after the Nutcracker was first performed in Russia the complete performance
There are more than 60 young local dancers from 13 different academies and studios including 18 from Pro Arté and 17 from Arts Umbrella performing in this year’s Ballet BC presentation of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet Nutcracker. These dancers commit approximately two hours a week for seven weeks to participate in one or two performances. But it is the chance of a lifetime for them to work with the professionals from RWB and Ballet BC.
Serena Sanford and Liam Caines in RWB’s Nutcracker.
United States by Ballet Russe six years later, it took another four years for a U.S. ballet company to stage a performance when the San Francisco Ballet presented it in 1944. The National Ballet of Canada first performed it on January 28, 1952 at the Eaton Auditorium in Toronto. Two years later famous choreographer, George Balanchine, presented his Nutcracker with the New
DARE TO DREAM N A T I O N A L A U D I T I O N T O U R 12 / 13
vancouver OPEN CLASSES nov 24 AUDITIONS NOV 25 PRESENTING SPONSOR
York City Ballet. It is has been an tradition ever since and for many future ballerinas, their very first time experiencing the
Photo: Cylla von Tiedemann
increasingly popular Christmas facebook.com/NBSNationalAuditionTour @NBS_ENB #NBSauditions
beauty and grace of a live ballet
WWW.NBS-ENB.CA
performance.
Nutcracker Performances Around Town
Ballet BC presents Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet The Nutcracker
Royal City Youth Ballet Company Nutcracker
Queen Elizabeth Theatre: Evening Performances - 7:30 pm Fri, Dec 14 Sat, Dec 15 Sun, Dec 16
Abbotsford Arts Centre: Sat, Nov 24 - 2:30 pm
David Cooper
balletbc.com/nutcracker_2012.html
Matinee Performances - 2 pm Sat, Dec 15 Sun, Dec 16
royalcityyouthballet.org
The Act, Maple Ridge: Sun, Nov 25 - 1 & 4 pm Massey Theatre, New Westminster: Sun, Dec 9 1 & 4:30 pm
Surrey Arts Centre: Fri, Dec 14 - 7:30 pm Sat, Dec 15 - 1 & 4 pm Sun, Dec16 - 1 & 4 pm Cowichan Theatre, Duncan: Fri, Dec 21 - 7 pm Sat, Dec 22 - 1 pm Centennial Theatre, North Vancouver: Sun, Dec 23 - 1 & 4 pm
November 2012 | just dance! 15
history of danc e
Ballet BC RWB Presentation Showcases Local Dancers
just dance! wants to know… Freya Adelaide Statham Age 3 ½ Tiptoes School of Performing Arts – Sinfin, Derbyshire, U.K. The best gift I have been given is my ballet shoes because they have given me confidence, grace, and enjoyment and I feel like a princess when I dance in them.
Stephanie Lowe
Nellie Hagel
Age 13
Ballet Bloch Canada
Age 11 Defy Gravity Dance Company – Richmond
The best dance gift that I would like to receive is for my parents to send me to either the Royal Winnipeg Ballet or Alberta Ballet school for this coming summer. I think
My favourite dance gift is an
it would be a great opportunity, not only to
Ivviva striped top. It’s really
learn from the professional teachers at the
bright and comfortable. I
school, but also to meet new people!
like to think that it helps me be extra bendy when I need to be. My Aunt and Uncle gave it to me for Christmas. It also came with a matching headband. I love them and I
Amanda De Paiva
love it!!
Age 11
Studio One Dance Centre – Aldergrove I receive the gift of dance every day, every week, every month and all year long from my family. My dad works extra hard so my mom can be there for me all the time at dance. My brother does drop off and pick up and he even sits and waits for me while I’m in private classes. My family plans so much around my dance. It is so special for me when my Dad gets to see me perform; just knowing he’s in the audience makes me so thankful for the gift of dance. 16 just dance! | November 2012
What is the best gift you have received or would like to receive? Sasha Ergas
Age 11
Vanleena Dance Academy – North Vancouver The best dance gift that I have received is to be confident in yourself and not to be shy or embarrassed about how you dance because it’s beautiful, and don’t care what other people think about you. That has made me be more confident in myself, especially around my dance friends.
Bridget Crawford
Age 10
Defy Gravity Dance Company – Richmond My favourite dance gift would be a pair of pointe shoes. Even though I’m only 10 now I think it would be a really cool gift, and dancing on pointe looks really fun.
THANK YOU! Ballet BC, Live Love Dancewear, and Sugar & Bruno for donating prizes
Bridget, Jada and Sasha photos: GTFX; Cierra photo: Kevin Clark
for our just dance! wants to
Cierra Rohde
know November draw.
Age 17
K&S Dance – Port Coquitlam The best dance gift I have ever received was when my mom sent me to the iDance Convention 2 years ago.
Jada Tang
Age 11
Respond to Win! Next issue just dance! wants to know, “What is your favourite dance photo of yourself?” Send your response to
Defy Gravity Dance Company – Richmond
info@justdancemagazine.
The best dance gift that I would like to receive is a dance scholarship
Tarzan Dan (TDFoto.ca), or
which I know will take a lot of hard work ! A dance scholarship will help my mom and dad pay for all my dance.
com for a chance to win an original signed print from a photo shoot and a just dance! cover! November 2012 | just dance! 17
Dance Intensives 101
Zoe Anderson, from Debbie Lee Dance, spent 6 weeks this past summer at the Boston Ballet’s Summer Dance Program.
By: Andrea Albanese & Liza Anderson
I
t’s that time of year...auditions are now posted for summer 2013 dance intensives. Once you start looking around, it seems like every school--from your local studio to the leading professional schools and companies--all offer some sort of summer dance program. So how do you choose? Set goals. Do you want to improve your technique? Try dancing full-time? Train with expert instructors? Summer intensives can function as auditions for full-time professional schools, as highly selective training programs for elite dancers, as opportunities for proficient dancers to train with top-level faculty or as typical summer camps with dance classes. Setting specific goals will make it easier to evaluate various programs and choose the best one to fit your needs. Educate yourself. Summer intensives range in length, cost, class size, dance disciplines, financial aid, performance opportunities and level of commitment. Be sure to check the dates as many summer intensives in the US begin in early June. Also, consider your budget for tuition; room and board; travel costs and pocket money. There really is a program for everyone; however, keep in mind that summer intensives can be big money makers for schools and
18 just dance! | November 2012
Did you know? Auditioning
locally can be great opportunity to experience a class with expert teachers. companies…this is not necessarily a bad thing, but do your research and choose a program that offers good value and will help you reach your goals. Start planning. Auditions come up quickly in early January running for 6-8 weeks with even some happening before the holiday season. For BC dancers, the closest auditions for many top American schools are in Seattle. Choose which to attend carefully as travelling every weekend is expensive and time consuming. Also remember that for U.S. auditions Canadians are considered international students so you are eligible to submit your audition by DVD. Get organized. Prepare in advance so your audition is about dancing…not paperwork. Most summer intensive programs have school websites which outline key audition information. Some offer pre-registration (non-refundable) which saves time and also eliminates the need for US dollars as most audition fees are payable in cash only.
Research Starts Here: The Classical Ballet Teacher:
classicalballetteacher. wordpress.com Ballet Talk for Dancers:
dancers.invisionzone.com On Facebook: •
Ballet Summer Intensive Auditions
•
just dance! magazine
Wise Words: Remember your audition begins when you enter the facility. Get your manners on. Always respect the other dancers and all adults. Have great posture. They ARE watching.
Audition classes are oftern given by highly reputable instructors. Embrace the opportunity, learn and enjoy the experience.
Road Rules: Arrive at the
time requested—not too late not too early—often the facility is occupied prior to the scheduled audition. Check the school website 48 – 72 hours prior to audition day as last minute time changes can occur.
Fine Photos: Make a list of
the photos and poses required for every audition you are attending. • Take 5-10 shots of each pose in a dance studio for best results. • Take photos after class when you are warmed up. • Ask your teacher, in advance, for help with photos. • Head shots don’t have to be professional; school photos will often work. • Print photos, in the requested size, well in advance and make extra copies.
What to Bring:
• Leotards, tights and warm-up clothes: Most ballet auditions require a solid colour leotard with pink tights. Bring extras. • Documentation: Some schools require proof of age (passport/ birth certificate). • Photos: Up to three photos can be required in various poses and specific size prints. • Shoes: For ballet auditions, pointe shoes are only required after a certain age and pointe work is not usually given in an audition as valuable time is lost putting on pointe shoes; however, always bring your pointe shoes just in case. Wear soft shoes that make your feet look great. Check the sewing on all ribbons and elastics. • Paperwork: Bring printed confirmation of pre-registration. Alternatively, if a registration form is available online, print it and fill it out ahead of time. • Hair and Makeup: Bring all products necessary to make a great bun. Small hair accessories are usually fine. Teens should wear light makeup—lip gloss and mascara. • Extras: A pen; extra safety pins to attach your number; mat, foot roller and music for warming up. Most auditions are regular ballet/ dance classes. Listen carefully and do what is asked to the very best of your ability. Be yourself. Don’t dwell on your mistakes. Think of each audition as an opportunity but also an invaluable learning experience. November 2012 | just dance! 19
Emma Heiden {& Her Dad!}
By: Racquel Foran
I
t is a dark, rainy November evening, but the halls of The Goh Ballet Academy are alive with the sounds and movements of dozens of dancers
training. In addition to regular classes, dancers of all ages are rehearsing for Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker; among the
dancers is ten-year-old Emma Heiden.
Emma and her dad dressed as a “party boy” and “grandfather.” 20 just dance! | November 2012
Karen Fisher-Hagel x2
in th e spotlight
In the Spotlight:
Show Dates & Times
Emma playing two roles—a party
• First performance: 2009 with two guest stars from
gohnutcracker.com
away, and Emma can hardly wait. This is her second Nutcracker performance (she was a soldier in last year’s Goh production), but
boy in the Act I, and an angel in
the National Ballet of Canada.
Act II—But she also gets to perform
• Cast members: Approximately 200, ages 6 to 50!
on stage with her father Lorenzo for
• Rehearsals: Start in September- anywhere
the very first time. Lorenzo is playing the role of the grandfather and, “I get to straighten his tie,” Emma gleefully explained as dad smiled on. When asked who was more excited when they found out they would be performing together, Emma emphatically replied, “ME!”
from one to ten-plus hours each week for each dancer. • Costumes: More than 190 are used; each one is laundered, repaired, and steamed after every performance. • 2012 Principal Dancers: Tiler Peck and Gonzalo Garcia of the New York City Ballet.
The Centre in Vancouver: for Performing Arts: Evening Performances 7:30 pm Wed, Dec 19 Thurs, Dec 20 Fri, Dec 21 Sat, Dec 22 Sun, Dec 23 Matinee Performances 2 pm Sat, Dec 22 Sun, Dec 23
The party scene from Goh Ballet’s premier of the Nutcracker in 2009.
But a quick glance at dad’s face revealed his thrill and pride, too. Emma began dancing at the age of three. She started out at Defy Gravity in Richmond taking jazz and tap, in addition to ballet. Since moving to The Goh three years ago, she has focused on ballet and has passed her Grade 4A R.A.D. exams. In addition to three 1 ½ hour ballet classes each week, Emma also takes a weekly one-hour tumbling class at Cartwheels in Richmond.
The snow scene from Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker.
“It helps me with shifting my weight in dance,” she explained. But it is pretty obvious that she just likes to be moving, adding that she also likes to skip at school during recess and lunch. When asked what her greatest
Goh Ballet x2
dance achievement to date is, she answered “The Nutcracker,” going on to explain that she liked playing a soldier last year “because I didn’t have to smile.” November 2012 | just dance! 21
in th e spotlight
this year is extra special. Not only is
Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker – Facts & Figures
Opening night is just over six weeks
in th e spotlight
Apparently one of the effects of nerves on Emma is that she forgets to smile on stage. Not a problem for a soldier “they are supposed to be serious,” she said with a laugh, making it hard to believe she ever forgets to smile. Besides her Nutcracker roles, Emma’s favourite part of ballet is character dance. “Because of the shoes and the skirts,” her dad added. Emma nodded in agreement, “I get to wear heels!”
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in Pointe shoes by the time she is 12. In the meantime she is looking forward to hamming it up on stage with her dad. “Opening night is
Summer 2012 | Sneak Preview
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With that our interview was over and Emma,
SYTYCDC Winner Tarva-Jean TalkS WiTh JuSvT DanCe!
juST dance! iS The perfecT affordable gifT! 1 year $24 (6 issues) | 2 years $48 (12 issues) 3 years $72 (36 issues) Subscribe online at: justdancemagazine.com
Lorenzo in Nutcracker costume as a boy. Emma Heiden.
follow us: @justdancemagazi join us: facebook.com/jdmagazinebc
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Jazz & Lyrical, A.I.D.T. Tap and Musical Theatre with Vocal Coaching Complete R.A.D. Ballet Exam Program from Pre-‐Primary to Solo Seal Recreational and Competitive Programs Professional Training Program from A ge 8 Lots of Performing and Competing Opportunities Half Day Intensive Program from Age 13
Artistic Director: Shannon Stewardson (RAD TC, RAD TD, CDTA) 98 Brigantine Drive, Coquitlam, British Columbia V3K 6Z6 ~ Phone 604-‐523-‐6868 Website: www.tricitydance.com ~~ Email: t ricitydance@telus.net (Just off United Boulevard between Ikea & the Home Depot)
22 just dance! | November 2012
Karen Fisher-Hagel
Tri-‐City Dance Centre
in th e spotlight
Lorenzo Heiden Lorenzo started dancing as a 7-year-old after being taken to a ballet performance and thinking to himself, “That looks fun, I can do that.” He started out at the Royal Academy of Music and over a 10 year span moved on to dance at The Goh, with the Pacific Northwest Ballet, and the National Ballet School. A knee injury at the age of 17 brought his professional dance ambitions to an end. It was a coincidence that he happened to drop Emma off at The Goh three years ago and learned that although rehearsals for their 2010 Nutcracker production had begun, they had not yet cast the role of the grandfather. The role has been his ever since. “It’s been a great experience. I get to goof around with the kids and offer a bit of comic relief.” Lorenzo with Pacific Northwest Ballet.
Culver Cutie is the maker of unique and sassy tutu tote bags! Our bags are decorated with a darling danceinspired look and a roomy pocket, making it a go-to essential that can be filled up with your little dancer’s necessities.
Email: sales@culvercutie.com | Tel: 478.345.1645 www.culvercutie.com November 2012 | just dance! 23
Alignment on the Table During a treatment, the first thing I do is align your body correctly on the massage table starting with your feet. Once your body is aligned, I use various massage techniques to release muscle tension to further correct your alignment, to help your body reach equilibrium and rest in a neutral state. This can take anywhere from 30-90 minutes, depending on your current state of alignment. During the treatment, we’ll talk about helpful breathing practices. I will also give you a couple of techniques to help you recongize when you’re out of alignment as well as easy corrections you can do to maintain postural alignment in your daily life. Developing correct postural alignment usually occurs over a series of treatments—my goal is to guide you in gaining strength and developing techniques to maintain proper alignment on your own in your own time.
Great Posture, Strong Dancer T
By: Misha Waite
he discipline of dance is
freely. Correct postural alignment
coexists with a weak core and poor
physically demanding, time
allows the body to function at its very
alignment, meaning the dancer
consuming and expensive.
best and is a ‘golden key’ to health
must work harder to increase
In addition to body pain and
and well being…allowing dancers to
muscle strength and prevent injury.
access their body’s full potential.
Correct postural alignment allows
One of the areas where I see the
for fluidity of movement, optimal
injuries, bad posture can block a
dancer’s flexibility, muscle strength and stamina. As a massage professional and
most harm in dancers is in executing those beautiful extensions…
muscle function and increased energy—helping a hardworking dancer get maximum benefit from
BodyWorker, I am mindful and
particularly in dancers with
passionate in educating people
hypermobile joints. Extensions can
their time in the studio.
be very dangerous if they are not
There are two key characteristics
about the importance of correct postural alignment. When the body sits in a neutral position—as it is designed to—everything is balanced. Muscles and tendons are not strained or tense; organs
done correctly. They can cause compression in the lower back and spine, and affect the function of hip rotators and flexors , as well as inhibiting shoulder movement.
of postural alignment that are related and equally important and you can’t have one without the other: a dancer’s body must physically BE aligned (i.e.
sit where they are meant to; and
Hypermobility—often viewed as a
adjusted/put into place) and their
blood, lymph and body fluids flow
‘lucky’ or desirable trait—usually
muscles must be trained so it has
24 just dance! | November 2012
the strength to STAY aligned. To achieve correct postural alignment, I use massage
The Art of Well Being®
techniques to release muscle
Postural alignment for dancers
tension so I can realign the body to its natural state of equilibrium. However, during treatments I also teach clients to self-correct
On-site treatment available for local dance studios.
so they can achieve postural alignment on their own. To maintain correct postural alignment, muscle training and core strength are essential. Dancers know they must have a strong core, not only to hold the body correctly and maintain alignment,
tReatMeNt & eDUCatiON massage and BodyWork professional, Misha Waite, specializes in bodywork treatments and education—giving dancers the tools they need to maintain optimal postural alignment.
but to develop and build proper technique. Even if body alignment is adjusted correctly, it won’t stay like that without a strong core. However
Misha Waite
MA, RCC, Certified BodyWorker
core strengthening exercises must be done with correct postural alignment to get any benefit from the exercises!
misha@theartofwellbeing.ca 604.727.8662 www.theartofwellbeing.ca
The bottom line is that a weak core leads to bad postural alignment, and bad postural alignment makes it really difficult to strengthen the core. Correcting postural alignment is the first step necessary in gaining the greatest benefit in core strengthening work, which helps in developing correct technique and results in a stronger, healthier and more fluid dancer. Misha Waite is a massage professional and registered clinical counselor with her own practice--The Art of Well Being. As a former dancer and the mother of a dancer, Misha
Bottoms Up
How you stand on your feet is key to correct postural alignment. You should feel centered and strong when standing upright. Your weight should be evenly distributed between your big toe, your little toe and your heel. Your arches should actually arch away from the floor and not lean inwards (pronate) as this pulls everything out of alignment starting from your ankle, moving up your calf, knee and inner thigh which in turn affects your pelvis, spine, shoulders, neck and head. So standing properly on your feet in a balanced and mindful way is the first step in correct postural alignment.
is familiar with the stresses and
An easy way to gain awareness of how you
strains on dancers’ bodies and is
stand is by using toe spreaders (pictured) —a
passionate about helping them
clever little product developed and used by
achieve their fullest potential. Her mobile massage table allows her to set up in your home or dance studio. For further information visit
yoga practitioners—which keeps your toes straight and evenly spaced…just the way they should be.
theartofwellbeing.ca. November 2012 | just dance! 25
Holiday Gift Ideas Ainsliewear Bodysuit
The holiday season is a great time to support our local business owners and who better than Ainsliewear? As the official bodysuit supplier of the National Ballet of Canada, Ainsliewear bodysuits are known for their fit, comfort and style. The newest style from the designer is the Rose Print bodysuit with velvet detailing. Made of 88% nylon and 12 % spandex with a lined bust it is beautiful and wearable! $76 Available online at ainsliewear.com
Pointe Shoe Kit For the ballerina in the house, a pointe shoe kit is a nice affordable gift idea. The Dance Shop in Vancouver carries a kit that includes 2½ yards of 7/8” wide pointe shoe stretch ribbon for flexibility & security, 20” of ¾” heel elastic, 2 needles, a spool of matching extra strong thread, safety pins, and stitch ripper for fast removal of stitches. $13.95 Order online at thedanceshop.ca
Urban Empire Signature Pants
Zazzle
A favourite among hip hop dancers,
Looking for something different for your dancer? Why
distinctive features include a coloured flap that can be worn up or down, two side pockets, and a decorative back pocket. They come in both
not a Zazzle Elegant Pink Dancer Diamonds iPhone Case? This case will add a little bling to her phone and protect it at the same time. $46.95 Order online at zazzle.ca
kid and adult sizes in a variety of colours. $65/pair Available at Live Love Dancewear in Port Coquitlam. livelovedancewear.ca
Other gift ideas for under $10 •
Body Glitter Stickers
•
Hairnets
•
Luggage Tag
•
Bunheads Hairpins
for Dance Bag
•
Glitter Spray
26 just dance! | November 2012
Cool Key Ring Like Sugar & Bruno say, “it’s more than a key chain, it’s a fashion statement.” This S&B accessory comes in black, silver or gold with funky charms and a flat split-keyring. $12.00 US Order online at sugarandbrunostore.com
for Hip Hop Divas & Prima Ballerinas Portable Dance Studio
Rac n Roll Hanging Mirror
Does your dancer use your kitchen
Nothing like having to do a quick hair change
counter is a barre? Have your
between dances only to discover the one mirror in
hardwood floors been destroyed
the dressing room has 15 faces pressed up against
by tap shoes? Then the PortaBarre
it. The Rac n Roll Hanging Mirror is a perfect solution.
and PortaFloor are just what you
This 27” by 13” mirror has a small makeup pouch
need. The PortaBarre is 4.5’ high,
and it can be attached to a “rac” for convenience.
and can accommodate two
Available at Jazz Ma Tazz Dance and Costume
dancers. It comes in a custom
Supplies in Maple Ridge and Mission. $45.99
carrying case and weighs only
jazz-ma-tazz.com
15 lbs. The PortaFloor is made of durable laminate with high density foam cushioned under pad; it sounds great and can take a stomping. It too can be folded into a carrying case for easy portability and storage. PortaBarre $295 | PortaFloor $175 Available through En Pointe Enterprises. en-pointe.com
Inspiring Dance Art How about a framed photo of your favourite dancer? Or your favourite dancer and her pet pig? Local dance photographer Tarzan Dan has a beautiful and creative collection of images featuring dancers from Ballet BC, the National Ballet, Alberta Ballet and the Bad Boys of Dance just to mention a few. All are available for purchase on canvas or paper, framed or unframed--view them online at tdfoto.ca. Alternatively, you can book Dan for your very own photo shoot and make a memory that will last a lifetime! dan@tdfoto.ca for more information.
Culver Cutie Tutu Tote Bags These super cute tutu totes are a must-have for every young dancer. Designed to look like a tutu, the bags are roomy enough to hold all your dance necessities; there is even an interior pocket to help keep smaller items organized. If you want one for Christmas, you better order fast. Lots of styles available online at culvercutie.com start at $50 (US), just dance! readers get 10% off when you quote code 1225. November 2012 | just dance! 27
Foot Facts for Fabulous Feet By: Andrea Albanese &
experiences constant pressure
PAIN: Under your big toe and
Sarah Brewer Clowes
or friction. Corns need to be
sometimes when bending and
D
treated with a corn removal kit or
straightening the big toe
ancers ask a lot of their bodies—their feet in particular. Athletes wear shoes designed
to support and protect their feet. Dancers, whose feet endure long hours, hard floors, and repetitious jumping and turning, have little
by a podiatrist. Blisters should be covered with 2nd Skin®, cushioned with a pad and covered with a bandage. Clean and uncover at night. Don’t pop them; if they burst treat as above.
or no foot protection—dancing
Bunions are also common in
barefoot, en pointe or in canvas/
dancers—up to 90% of ballerinas
leather slippers. This puts a lot of
have them according to Thomas
stress and strain on tender tootsies.
Novella, a podiatrist working with
Since your dancing feet are one of the most important parts of your body, you need to take good care of them. Always wash and dry your feet well, especially between your toes, to help prevent fungal infections and painful cracking. If you dance barefoot, calluses are necessary and actually help protect the foot, though calluses more than 3mm thick can cause the surrounding uncallused skin to tear. Use a pumice—NEVER a blade—to
dancers at NYCB and ABT. Bunions
Neuroma = Pinching of the nerve fibres between the toes PAIN: Tingling/burning on the ball of the foot or toes Plantar Fasciitis = inflammation of the band of tissue that connects the heel to the base of the toes PAIN: Sore and tender feet especially first thing in the morning or after class
form when the big toe tendon
If you are experiencing foot pain,
becomes overstretched causing
it’s important to have it dealt with
the foot bone attached to the big
quickly. Often your teacher can
toe to angle away from the foot
advise you or suggest a health
and the big toe to angle towards
practitioner. Treatments can
the foot resulting in a bony lump at
range from rest, icing, taping,
the base of the toe. Unfortunately bunions are hereditary and are exacerbated by tight fitting, pressurized footwear. There are several other foot problems commonly seen in dancers:
anti-inflammatory medication, and acupuncture to more serious actions such as cortisone shots or surgery. So take good care of your hardworking feet by ensuring your shoes fit correctly, maintaining good postural alignment and
manage your calluses. Blisters
Sesamoiditis = inflammation of the
practicing excellent hygiene with
and corns form when the skin
tiny bones near your big toe
your feet and toenails.
28 just dance! | November 2012
Fusion Force Dance Studio
Fab Feet in Class
Director/Owner: Kylie Hannan
• 2–3 year old kinderdance. • Jazz, lyrical, tap, hip-hop, acro, modern, ballet, pointe & musical theatre. • Recreational & company programs. • Award Winning Choreographers. • Royal Academy Ballet exams.
Imagine your standing leg centered on the foot and your weight balanced equally between your heel, your pinkie and your big toe.
#101 Landmark Way Langley BC fusionforce.ca | fusion@telus.net Tel: 604 533 1863
• Make sure your turnout comes from your hip, not from your foot or ankle, as this causes the foot to pronate, putting pressure on the big toe, causing bunions. • Don’t lean on your big toe when you tendu, especially to the side or back.
Fab Feet en Pointe • Have your pointe shoes correctly fitted by a professional. Ill-fitting pointe shoes can cause avoidable foot problems such as ingrown and torn toenails; blisters and corns; bunions; neuromas; and stress fractures. • Use tape, toe pads, lambs wool, or toe spacers as directed by your teacher. • Don’t dance in ‘dead’ pointe shoes. • The shape and thickness of your nails and toes will dictate how to trim and file your toenails—ask your teacher for help.
DID YOU KNOW:
Dancers with hypermobile feet are more likely to suffer from bunions.
Exercises for Fab Feet • When sitting, place a towel on the floor in front of you. Use your toes to move the towel towards you and pick it up. • Sitting on the floor, with your legs straight in front of you and your toes pointed, gently pull ONLY your toes towards you (with your hands or a thera-band) keeping your foot pointed. • At the barre, in first position or parallel, relevé then plié making sure the arch of your foot is over your toes AND your toes are straight and not clenched or curled inwards. • Massage your feet and toes to reduce cramping.
November 2012 | just dance! 29
DANCE SUPPLIERS
THEATRES
Douglas Ballet Academy
Avalon Dance Shop of Canada
Evergreen Cultural Centre
dba2@telus.net
avalondance.ca
info@evergreenculturalcentre.com
info@avalondance.ca
604 927 6550
604 874 2461
1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
evergreenculturalcentre.ca
Fuschia Background with Light beams by
culvercutie.com info@culvercutie.com 478 345 1645
Dance Divas Costume Consignment
Canada’s National Ballet School
Place des Arts
nbs-enb.ca Toll Free: 800 387 0785
elisa@dancedivas.ca
Defy Gravity Dance Company Inc.
en-pointe.com facebook.com/danceproducts 1 866 491 9019
jazz-ma-tazz.com jazzma@telus.net Abbotsford: 604 855 9166
101 - 19670 Landmark Way, Langley
placedesarts.ca info@placedesarts.ca 604 664 1636 120 Brunette Ave, Coquitlam
Pro Arte Centre proartecentre.com
office@defygravitydance.ca
office@proarte.ca
604 272 0808
604 984 2783
30 - 11151 Horseshoe Way
3 - 1225 E. Keith Rd, North Vancouver
The Spiral Dance Co.
The danceLAB Studios Ltd.
spiraldance.ca
dancelab.ca
info@spiraldance.com
info@dancelab.ca
604 541 2840
604 525 5289
1471 Stayte Rd, White Rock
Maple Ridge: 604 466 0861
910 Sherwood Ave., Coquitlam
MOVE Athletics
Danzmode Productions
moveathletics.com
604 533 1863
defygravitydance.ca
Richmond
Jazz Ma Tazz
Fusion Force Studio fusionf@telus.net
Toronto: 416 964 3780
En Pointe Enterprises
202 - 4199 Lougheed Hwy, Burnaby
ACADEMIES, SCHOOLS & STUDIOS
dancedivas.ca 604 418 9709
604 420 0204
fusionforce.ca
4750 Main St, Vancouver
Culver Cutie Boutique
douglasballet.com
Tri-City Dance Centre tricitydance.com
danzmodeproductions.com
info@tricitydance.com
moveit@moveathletics.com
info@danzmodeproductions.com
604 523 6868
Greater Vancouver: 604 812 1382
604 294 4677
98 Brigantine Dr, Coquitlam
Toll Free: 888 267 0576
7209 Curragh Ave, Burnaby
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SUPPORTS & SERVICES
The Art of Well Being
Dr. Lawrence Chan
misha@theartofwellbeing.ca
604 868 1426
Naturopathic Doctor for Ballet BC
604 727 8662
Street Groove
Integrative Healing Arts,
groovestreet.net
Vancouver: 604 738 1012
Next Level Hip Hop nextlevelhiphop.ca info@nextlevelhiphop.ca
info@groovestreet.net 1 877 GROOVE 9
Thunderstruck Canada thunderstruckcanada.com/BC
integrative.ca
Dr. Fred Meinzer Chiropractor for Ballet BC drfredmeinzer.com Integrative Healing Arts,
1 888 688 5442 Ext. 201
Vancouver: 604 738 1012
Wharton Event Management
604 856 5299
wemlive.com 604 868 1426
Want Your business listed here? Contact info@ justdancemagazine.com
Aldergrove Wellness Centre:
theartofwellbeing.ca
Foundation for Integrated Health: Dr. Linda Drake foundationforintegratedhealth.com frontdesk@ foundationforintegratedhealth.com 604 988 7080 200 - 123 Carrie Cates Crt North Vancouver
TD Foto-Photography by Tarzan Dan tdfoto.ca
Dr. Harold Meinzer
dan@tdfoto.ca
Chiropractor for Ballet BC
your world in order
thunderbirdwellnesscentre.com Back2Health Chiropractic, Vancouver: 604 742 0111
yourworldinorder.com info@yourworldinorder.com 604 472 1000
Thunderbird Wellness Centre,
(staging & organizing the
Langley: 604 881 2404
Tri-Cities & beyond)