Emma northmore

I must say well done drdance......your Facebook post asking for back up has brought many well informed people on to this forum! Nico is always great. From a dancers perspective ...... and I love the science......but irrespective of what the research says.........pilates was a godsend for me and so many of my colleagues. The focused exercises helped us as students, develop the neural pathways to each individual muscle group......therefore, when asked in a class setting to engage the lats (for example) or inner thighs......it was far easier to immediately make those connections and ensure the right muscle groups were working. As a pro after a broken foot - I managed to return much improved havimg only donr pilates for 4 months - even earning a promotion from it!!! I have used both imagery and pilates to get less than perfect bodies in to top vocational upper schools. So whilst not understanding the science at your level - the uses have been proven over and over again. Nico you are welcome to observe a class over a period of time to see how i create these transformations as i am genuinely curious as to why the science doesn't support it. It only works on the most dedicated dancers! I will leave you all now to your scientific discussions as my brain is fried from Covid-19 risk assessments!!!!

of course pilates can change the shape of your muscles. It tones, defines and strengthens. Whilst not a scientist I am living breathing proof! I myself reshaped my body using pilates! Pilates literally gave me my career. Am I not real?!😉

Everyone always gets a reply. Have they checked their spam?! We had hundreds of emails to send so possibly got bounced by the security on their computers. Ask them to email admin@balletboost.com for their result.

Hello, The only reason I changed the plan was to give the poor dancers some good news in these worrying times! I felt they deserved to know as quickly as possible. We never normally do video auditions so its new to us all but I have been very fair and created wait lists to ensure spaces were available. Just felt a bit of good news was needed as soon as possible to lift the spirits! Hope everyone is well 😃

Hi Everyone, i don't often have time to look on here but feel compelled to jump in!! Fact - I was short and "stocky". Fact - swimming and pilates gave me my career. Pilates lengthened my muscles to such an extent I even got to dance the "tall girl" dances at ENB!! Fact - pilates must happen daily to alter genetics and be applied correctly with a lengthening sense in all you do. (Swimming is the safest and most effective way to tone everywhere.) Fact - Lisa Howell and Paris Opera are amazing. Fact -There is always a chain reaction of muscles that can create technical issues. Lets' remember the thighs are the easiest muscle to engage and so , if a dancer is not taught to mentally and physically activate the correct muscles, then the thighs will always over work!! If you use your metatarsals correctly and activate the use of the hamstring by energising the movements from the back of leg - then you wont over engage the thighs. And so yes, scrunching toes = weight back = thighs over working because it prevents the workload getting to the hamstrings.But the dancer MUST ask those hamstrings to activate or the thighs always will. Remember neural pathways take a long time to correct..... Naturally some dancers have larger muscle groups than others but in every company they have all types of physiques. Darcy/ Marienella - not string beans but athletes. Often the string beans get really injured but companies like them for particular works. They need a Clara/sylph/cygent but also a Queen of hearts or Myrtha. Schools will look for gifts that will outweigh the negatives - a short neck but awesome legs will get in. A more athletic type body will get in if they have the most stunning musicality or balon. If there is a feature that is of concern that isn't then countered by a raw talent/gift, then that's when dancers get turned away. Dont focus on the negatives, spend the time enhancing their gifts too. To Sillysally - if she wants to be a contemporary dancer, I wouldn't get too hung up on it. Head to Rambert which is excellent or any other contemporary school. Your DD wont be happy trying to fit a mould she doesn't want to be. The ballet at these places is also excellent. Fact - (DRDANCE) ANY dancer that has successfully worked for over 5 yrs in a main stream classical ballet company, (not 1yr in an unheard of co.) has far more technical and anatomical knowledge than any course could teach! 10/20 yrs on stage , working with your body and your injuries daily, provides an insight and depth of understanding of ballet and their bodies that just cant be taught. However, for those that declare themselves "professional" after a brief stint on stage - well yes I agree - they need the course!

Thankfully most Ballet Boost teachers are ex ENBS teachers or BRB. Only Zoe is affected and that's easily sorted . At Ballet Boost we are lucky to have plenty of high calibre teachers waiting in the wings! In regards to those with BBA places - where we can we will switch levels to help people fit both but classes are full so we can't accommodate this easily! Dancers can leave early without judgement aswell......but after lockdown consider that this many hrs in one day is tough. Dancers can choose our zoom option for one term or vice versa for RBS. Or do 50% BBA and 50% RBS as an ideal balance. They know we run on Sundays and I have sent them many students!!!! So they are usually very accommodating. Don't be afraid to contact your programmes and discuss options so we can all try to make the best of things without too much stress. I know at BBA we are planning to help as much as possible. I think each dancer needs to work out what they need most for this term - then chose to attend the programme that will provide most gains for your young dancers. If their place is safe then do what works best and don't worry about it too much. They won't be judged if they chose to do online x

Hi Ballet Boost is the only place that has done this so far! They don't exist hence I created one - there will be more coming so keep an eye out on the website........

Hi I regularly coach students in to gaining places at RBS and ENBS, Zurich, European school of ballet and Central and and run a vocational school alongside the private lessons. Should you wish to find out more please email me on emmanorthmore@yahoo.com or check out www.balletboost.com

I would stick with mascara only! A good foundation or blusher won't be too visible but definitely play safe at the audition

Hi all, so if joining company class dress cleanly but not too student like. Take all garbage off after plies even if the rest of the company are covered. Be mindful of were the dancers like to stand etc! Hang about afterwards, ask to watch rehearsal, make friends then ask if you can join in the next day too!😉 Open auditions are a minefield and much talent gets missed. These days ensure your video has been checked by numerous teachers before sending. Many are missing out on auditions due to poor videos. Check their height preferences before wasting money flying as unfortunately they don't always check this before inviting you!! Be warm, dressed in a stylish outfit that suits your colouring and make a you feel confident. An energised, confident presence will definitely help. Remember it's personal preference by directors good luck!

I am delighted to say that this new approach to vocational training is working beautifully and producing amazing results. ABA is everything you would receive at any top vocational Ballet School with the added bonus of living at home. So, any pastoral care issues vanish, which as a parent is so key and as a teacher it means my students are thriving due to this new approach. The classes are very small (8/9 in each), the feed back and contact with myself and other teachers is constant and we are working more in line with levels seen in Australia and the America. Dancers attend who used to be at white lodge, Elmhurst and Tring and are all thriving with no injuries. The Staff are at the top of their game and the academic schools have been fantastically supportive. There are exciting developments in the pipeline but I am just so delighted that for the dancers and families of today, there is now another option that is genuinely at the same level as the usual top choices. I realise there may be concerns as I haven't existed for many many years and so the brand name is new. Please ask away and feel free to visit the school to observe and meet the teachers if you are genuinely interested. I won't firewall you, or sell a huge building but I can guarantee happy, healthy and superbly well trained dancers and I will always be honest as I am a mother too - we don't get to redo these precious years! Ages 10 to 16 Auditions March 29th at Sadlers wells www.balletboost.com

Hello, Ballet Boost Associates takes accepts applications all year depending on age we have a couple of places left. Starts age 8 up to 18....8 levels on 2 Sunday's a month. Classes are 2.5 or 3hrs long followed by contemporary and based at Rambert school.on Richmond. Do email admin@balletboost.com or look at www.balletboost.com (All staff were previous professional dancers and currently teach in vocational schools)

Hello lovely ballet mums! I have not been in here for ages and summer school is fully booked. But I do have spaces on my Back to Ballet course at the end of August. Remember all ballet boost courses are aimed at a high vocational level but I always make everyone feel welcome and There is very much a strong mentoring approach so it becomes more than just another course. I remain a point of contact for support and guidance in this tricky world. My courses are supported by RBS as I know their forms get signed off by the school. Wherever your children are I hope they have fabulous experiences xx

Please don't worry Piccolo - I do genuinely do this to help as opposed to running a business. I think thats what parents appreciate and why they feel there is a different vibe at BBA or will be at ABA . Sorry to hear it didn't work out for you DD........a big part of the reason for this is so much talent gets lost and I can't bare to see that happen anymore x

Just saw it...... spooky!! i am planning a full blown vocational school so I expect there is a subtle difference possibly and as always - room for everyone! And like any choices in life - proximity and style of teaching and training will be huge factors. I have quite a unique approach. I now have space at Sadlers wells for yr 10 and 11 from September 2018 too and am exploring other spaces for more All very exciting! Second patron is Stephanie Williams of ABT. My approach is to connect globally so setting up future work opportunities for these dancers etc etc xx

oh what was that??

Hello Piccolo thank you for your comment but as far as i am aware there is nothing else opening like this in London.....unless you can tell me something I have missed?! There are many 6th forms that are covering all dance genres but this is an elite ballet LOWER school......... I put hours of time and energy in to every child i teach meaning i miss hours of time with my own children. My school will also not be like any other current vocational school as my approach to teaching is very forward thinking! I am sure you didn't mean much by your comment - I am trying to help after years of picking up the pieces and putting kids back together - I am trying to make a difference and absolutely will not be 'yet another school'!

Our first Patron is Fiona Tonkin - Assistant Associate and Principal Coach of the Australian Ballet! I will form links with this company.....Fiona is the most lovely person. I met her at ENB when she was Assistant Artistic Director

I had no idea!! Always thought it was a weekend /associate type thing. Good to hear. I will solely be training in elite level ballet so will be very choosy at the audition and keep it small and select. Thanks for the info - its good to know there is something on offer in the North too as obviously mine will need to live close enough! I am ready to write letters to heads asking permission to leave school etc! The standard will be everything you would expect to see at WL and Elmhurst......very exciting!

I am very excited to bring to you The Academy of Balletic Arts I have wanted to do this for 3 yrs now with my very own building but its hugely expensive!! In the mean time I am opening with the kind permission of Pineapple and am in talks with other venues too. So far I have space for Yr 7 , 8 and 9 to train 3 days a week from 4.30pm at pineapple. As this programme is aimed at those who fall just shy of White Lodge or Elmhurst or those who make a choice to stay at home longer - I would fully expect they have been with an Associate programme for some time and so will have 4 fully vocational classes per week. With an added programme of pilates that will be set up for each child, a tailor-made programme from our Physio (Luke Abnett - Ex RBS), coaching 121 with myself (included), swimming and Anatomy - there will be plenty for them to do! The aim is to assist the talented ones who may flourish later or just not quite tick all the boxes at 11 but by 16 will be beautiful! Or those that choose to stay at their wonderful academic school AND stay with their families AND now also get the training thats needed to succeed. I wish to help these dancers achieve their dreams with a forward thinking international approach to training. Creating global links and ensuring the best interest of the student is paramount throughout. This programme is based on years of listening to students and parents and observing whats necessary and I truly hope to ensure its what is needed. Please feel free to add comments of what you think or need as all feedback and thoughts are useful. It really is being developed for you and your dancers with a heart felt desire from myself to help you all. If you wish to enquire further please email me emmanorthmore@yahoo.com info @balletboost.com 07958 725862 TO APPLY for the AUDITION on MARCH 29th 2018 at 4pm email monique_aaliyah@live.com (official school email yet to be tried and tested but will be coming!)

Hi all, a list of Ballet Boost faculty if that helps for this year - Stephen Beagley - Company guest teacher worldwide Ruth Brill - BRB & Choreographer Olivia Cowley - RB Ricardo Cervera - RB Ballet Master Roberto Almaguer - ABT / ex ENBS Flavien - BalletBoyz Myself - ENBS Guest teacher The ethos behind Ballet Boost is to always look to the future and all guest teachers are chosen with the possibility of talent being spotted and vital industry connections being made. This is part and parcel of their futures alongside their artistic and technical abilities. The life skills of a professional is what I try to impart and so far we have have good success and these connections have worked wonders As there are many courses out there I wanted to offer something a bit different that goes beyond the classes on a timetable - at the end of the day, a successful future career is why they are training and so your money needs to be well spent in an expensive industry!! Hope this helps..... If you have any questions do please fire away - you can message me via Facebook too (Emma Northmore) as I am so rarely on here! x

ah ok! if not just email me for a form emmanorthmore@yahoo.com

AUDITIONS june 25th 2017 APPLY NOW! www.balletboost.com - Go to the the BBA page to apply at the bottom Ages 8 - 18 BBA is coming to the South West offering vocational training monthly on Sundays as a 'boost to their regular classes. Ballet Boost mentors and supports by nurturing and guiding both dancers and parents! Classes involve anatomy, pilates, technique, pointe, rep and contemporary over 3hrs to 4.5 hrs (depending on level) at the wonderful Dartington Hall. This is first class training on a par with all vocational schools in London. If you have any queries please don't hesitate to ask. I am excited to be helping your child fulfil their true potential! emmanorthmore@yahoo.com 07958 725862

COACHING for COACHES! A rare opportunity to see world class coaching using dancers from the Royal Ballet Company. For all teachers, repetiteurs and dancers considering their next career move - this is a very special day with Maina Gielgud at Ballet Boost on Sept 1st 2017. It involves the whole day -watching a ballet class and then observing Maina teach mime and stage craft. After lunch Teo Dubreuil and Anna Rose O'Sullivan from RB Company will arrive to be 'coached' in various solos and we are hoping to share crucial elements that are necessary when coaching. Its so very different to delivering a class and will be invaluable for those working on YAGP, Prix de Lausanne or even festival solos. This is an interactive workshop! If you are interested please fill in the attached form or email me info@balletboost.com. It should be an enlightening day as Maina coaches dancers around the world!! The dancers attending the Back to Ballet course from aug 29th will be lucky enough to watch the afternoon rehearsal at no extra cost having finished the course after the mime class! Full details available on www.balletboost.com on the 'other courses' page or at www.mainagielgud.com. Cost is £70 for the afternoon and can be as interactive as necessary. £85 to observe the entire day from 11am with students attending their technique class (taught by Emma Northmore) followed by mime taught by Maina. Coaching for Coaches.docx

If it helps at all, and I hate to sound all doom and gloom, but as a parent myself I think its only fair to be realistic. There are so very few jobs in a good ballet company!! I can't stress how important her GCSE results are. Unless they are the top end in their vocational class then the likely hood of good work is so slim right now. Not enough funding for other companies, visa issues to work elsewhere and no one moving on as there just aren't any jobs - its not a great scenario that needs a really good plan B. I teach talented graduates weekly at pineapple, they are so deserving of work, i use all my contacts and yet the jobs just aren't there. Thats the truth of it. Possibly if you want a good classical job then looking overseas to train is the best option! Somehwhere like Tring has fab classical training but also covers the other genres more thoroughly leaving greater opportunities for work. ALSO there are so many ways now to achieve the same level of vocational training outside of these schools..........but yes under one roof is always easier as a parent!