Klaris

We have only deshanked one pair of pointe shoes - they were Grishkos and so hard to do! So thanks to Anjuli for the tip about the nails (and getting the husband to do it!) One word of warning about softening shoes: my dds ballet teacher (who is fantastic) said run them over in the car. I dutifully did this (while they were in a plastic bag!) and the shoes just did not fit right after that. So from now on my dd sticks to a combination of softening by wearing and with her hands, and a bit of bashing with a small mallet if necessary.

I was surprised to learn that apparently Rambert do not audition every applicant: for instance, if about 400 apply, they will go through the applications and choose 200 to audition in person. The decision about who to audition is taken by the director etc. I was also surprised that they only have one audition - it is decided on the day and no finals. I suppose the audition is the final.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this really fascinating topic: it gives a very honest, and at times heartfelt, insight into what happens at Finals. Congratulations and good luck to all those who have succeeded this year, and all the best in the future to everyone who hasn't yet got what they hoped for xx

What sensible advice Glowlight. Thank you for your words of wisdom. It is so easy to feel that your child is disadvantaged by what we as parents can afford. We can only do our best. Spanner, I can't remember if you have considered the CAT scheme for your dd - but if you haven't it might really be worth looking at, even if your daughter is ballet orientated (as mine was before she started - now she adores contemporary too!) Auditions are happening soon and many students get all or most of their fees paid, plus help with travel and uniform (depending on income.) My dd attends the East of England CAT (based in Ipswich) and it is wonderful dance training. There are students there from Bedford, Cambridge and other places that might not be too far from you. Parents lift share and sort things out together. PM me if you want more details.

This site is invaluable and it would be so sad to lose it. I would be very happy to pay a subscription to help keep it running.