Interested in earning your pointe shoes?

Going "en pointe" is a special milestone in the life of any ballet dancer.  It may look lovely and elegant, but underneath the surface it requires a tremendous amount of discipline and hard work. 

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C.R.O.W.’s Artistic Director and Ballet Instructors are trained in classical ballet technique and follow important protocols for the safety of all students.

General Info:

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• Minimum age to be considered for pointe is 12 years old.  Putting a dancer in pointe shoes too young does permanent damage to joints - particularly knees, ankles, hips, and back.  There is a high likelihood of injury, when dancers begin pointe work too young. 

 

• Performance in pointe shoes is by approval.  It is unsafe for beginning pointe dancers to perform in pointe shoes if they haven't yet developed the necessary strength and stamina.  Earning your shoes does not automatically mean that you’ll be allowed to perform onstage.  

 

• Dancers must have taken a minimum of 3 full years of ballet (continuous classes) and must demonstrate proper strength and muscle development needed for pointe shoes. 

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• Dancers must be actively involved in dance classes and must maintain participation in a minimum of 2-3 classes per week (must take ballet, plus other dance genres by approval).  

 

• Pointe shoes are expensive, and must be professionally fitted.  They are absolutely not able to be purchased without an in-person fitting. 

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• We provide approved dancers with a program lasting 4-6 months (minimum) prior to approval for pointe shoes.  

 

• There are many other important requirements and procedures for going “en pointe.” 

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If you are interested in learning more, please CONTACT US, and we'd be happy to share information about our "Pre-Pointe/Pointe Preparation and Requirements" program.  The packet includes a parent/student contract, journal (minimum 4-6 months), list of general requirements, and strengthening exercises.

 

Our C.R.O.W. team will support you in your journey, but we always put safety and proper development of our students first. 

 

Please don't hesitate to ask if you have questions.