Squeaky

Are there any associate programmes in/along the south east (coast) - Brighton way? Most seem to be headed back up towards London/Essex way (ie Ballet Scholars) Thanks

Thank you for the replies Youngone isn't too bothered about auditioning this year purely based on that they know that realistically there may only be very limited spaces available at the outside chance and I do think they are aware that I am a bit financially strapped Youngone does want that place at vocational at some point though! I seem to have found an excellent new dance school for them - they seem focused there but have eased youngone in nicely, understand about youngones aspirations, the school has a really good vibe about it - youngone has now been attending for the 4 week and seems happy and settled - ergo I am happy Youngone has just started MA's so haven't had chance to converse with the MA teacher, was wondering about emailing the JA teacher perhaps. Argggh decisions decisions

My youngone is 11 and has gone through JA's and is now an MA Auditioned last year and due to various circumstances going on the auditions weren't successful (which was ok) which reflected strongly in my youngones actual performance during auditions. Now, we aren't sure whether to re-audition for vocational school Y8 Youngone is neither here nor there about it - happy to go and do (even just for the fun and experience of it again!) but knows that realistically (as I do) that places will be few and far between My youngone is aspiring to go to vocational but we aren't sure whether to give it a shot this year again or just hold on for another year, get ourselves settled back in (house and half a country move, new school and dance school etc) for the long haul, find our feet etc. I do have to factor in that looking at it realistically I will struggle financially to do the audition rounds Any advice or guidance anyone? Am I hampering youngone's chances and experiences by not doing the audition rounds this time?

ok may have left it late (!) but its been a whirlwind several months and tons of other things going on anyone know of any summer schools/classes (south east area) that may be running/have spaces (and don't cost the earth!) all looking for recommendations of schools/teachers for regular classes Sept onwards in the Eastbourne and surrounding areas thanks

We are moving South over the summer and I wondered if anyone has any recommendations for good ballet schools/teachers in the East Sussex area (Uckfield/Eastbourne area) Thanks

ok found sportcity manchester or ashton under lyme travel lodges - anyone know if they are ok for Denton? think I am panicking a bit - I hate driving where I don't know lol!

Thank you you guys are always very helpful and informative. I am trying to be efficient and organised so I don't get to January and have a meltdown and thanks and will do DancingShoes

Evening all! Audition Manchester (Royal) - anyone know where they are held (area) and does any one have any recommendations of hotels/b&b's in that local area Same again with Elmhurst - any recommendations of hotels / B&B close to Elmhurst needs to be fairly cheap and reasonable prices considering driving thank you muchly

Any feedback about the experience from your children?

oh wow - I totally forgot that the Elmhurst auditions started yesterday (we are going for the January ones) good luck to everyone

Not much use to you but I attended Legat many (many) years ago when it was based up in Rotherfield and not associated with Bedes. The school then was wonderful and I have many many happy memories (and great training) Just been looking at it for my son (can't get the website to load properly and have emailed them for information - but its on my sisters doorstep so might get her to pop along for me )

Sorry typed as I was thinking yes its the application forms - was looking and looking and I thought I was just overlooking it thank you - that explains it then

I can't find the link on Royals website for 2016 auditions or am I being a ding (as my son would call me)?

I do mean RBS associates lol. Just realised what I typed instead - eeh!

just short sleeved white leotard and blue trunks (for JA's) think it might actually be a size 2 leotard needed

Hi is anyone selling boys associate RAD uniform please? Looking for size 3 (a) leotard 30/32 trunks Thanks

oh bless her. Its such a huge step isn't it and a lot to take on board. its natural to have doubts and concerns - especially in the run up. What your DD needs to remind herself of/appreciate... she already good enough to be selected to attend from many many others after rigorous selection processes. She is going there to learn and develop. Yes realistically there may be other children there who are 'better' than her ...at some things - however likewise - she may be better at some things than others! Swings and roundabouts! Some may have great flexibility but may lack performance or passion and vice versa and so on. The school have seen something in her they want and feel they can develop - that in its self demonstrates she has talent. What is important now is that she makes the most of the opportunity and doesn't let that worry override her (easier said than done at a young age.. well any age!). A lot of the other children will be feeling the same way I am sure. Perhaps get her to write down or consider what she is good at and why she feels she may have been offered a placement. could you talk to her regular dance teacher - a confidence booster... tell her what you see in her - a passion in her performance? the grit and determination of years of study that demonstrates her dedication which got her here today? an expressive dancer? lovely turnout? strong legs? musicality, beautiful feet, etc....etc? Yes I know sometimes its 'mum talking' but we all need to hear good things from our mum. Perhaps get out some old photos or videos of her dancing when she was younger so she can see her amazing development. I know when my DS was starting associates he worried a little about the same thing - thinking he would look silly because others will know more/be better. wishing your DD and all the new starters the very best and enjoy it

I think that you need to talk to her teachers - they can tell you whats what, expectations etc - as they see your daughter and her range. Take your guidance from them. Is your daughter doing her stretches regularly - are the stretches sufficient, being done correctly?

I will echo this - my son has had a place from the start of Y5 and is going onto Y6. He has had a wonderful time and learned so much. I did wonder how he'd respond to it - I thought this will be make or break time of whether he does love ballet genuinely and wants to continue/pursue it. He really does love it, the classes, the work the whole caboodle. The other parents at our JA's have been very welcoming and extremely supportive and kind, I have found the teacher to be very supportive as well. To all the incoming parents - enjoy the experience and welcome!

oh and another thing that has really made a difference to my son - a piano being played in class - he finds it a lot more enjoyable, easier to listen to and responds so much better

Its blooming hard to get out there and 'perform'! Especially when you are concentrating on remembering the moves. I think it can be taught and I think it can be coaxed out many - often stage/drama lessons help - its about believing in yourself, forgetting that you are being watched and more often than not judged. My son struggles with musicality and expression - when he does forget he is being watched, when he believes in himself and what he can do - oh heavens he is fantastic to watch - he really shines. He does struggle with remembering sequences (he is dyslexic) and it takes a lot of repetition and concentration for it to sink in - so often he is beats behind everyone but like I say when he does get it.

Banana feet... I have them and they look wonderful! Beautiful leg lines oh and to die for in pointes! My feet are seriously arched - sat on floor with legs in front I barely have to stretch my feet to get my toes to touch the floor. However they are not a huge plus (in my experience) - you have to work hard on ankle and foot strength (especially for up en pointe or in any rise), it can cause additional stress on the knees and be prone to injury. Your 'centre' can be 'off'.

Congratulations to all the yes's Commiserations to all the no (X) hang on in there

Congratulations to your LO Lou

yes just heard from Elmhurst - he has been offered audition on the 14th in Manchester (was hoping they'd run one in Sunderland) good luck to everyone applying there too