THE BALLET CLASS GRUMP

I’m dressed in my leotard and tights, bending and stretching at the barre, getting ready for 10 am class to begin. The piano player takes her seat; the teacher enters the studio and gives the opening plié combination.

I start class, but during the first port de bras my mind begins to wander. Instead of focusing on the music and movement, I instead begin to make a mental list of things that make me “buggy” in ballet class.

Ballet is my most favorite of art forms, and class is something I always look forward to – for me it’s like breathing! I feel compelled to be there – it’s a big part of my life. Why can’t I just relax and enjoy myself? Why do I always let things bother me? Is it age? Exhaustion? The weather?

Maybe I’m just a ballet class grump!

Here’s my top ten list of ballet class bug-a-boos:

1. Teachers who rush the barre – please go slowly until my muscles loosen up.
2. Dancers who don’t towel off – please don’t fling your sweat at me!
3. Dancers who don’t move backward or forward – can’t they make room for everyone around them?
4. Stagnant air – please turn on a fan!
5. Pianists who never change their music – ever.
6. Teachers who talk too much – let’s get moving.
7. Dancers who don’t angle at the barre – don’t put me in mortal danger with your battement!
8. Show offs – do you really need to do eight pirouettes between combinations?
9. Classes that start late – and end on time!
10. Dancers who believe they “own” their spot – read “Whose Spot is it Anyway” on adriaballetbeat.com.

There – now I feel better. Sometimes it feels so good to vent. Now I can concentrate, and enjoy my first tendu.

Are there things that makes you “buggy” in ballet class?