Pre-Pointe & Pointe
Level 1 Pointe
-
By recommendation only
w/ Tiana / Zoe
This class includes pre-pointe and beginner pointe opportunities for dancers who are working on building the strength necessary for more advanced pointe-work.
This class does not have a dance in the recital, instead spending the year working on strength and technique.
All students starting pre or beginner pointe are required to have a pointe readiness screening with our Athletic Trainer, Amanda Donahue. Amanda will screen for pointe readiness and provide an individualized plan for preparing for pointework.
Level 2 Pointe
-
By recommendation and screening only
w/ Zoe
This class will be run as an advanced ballet class with the expectation that pointework is executed with precision and technique
Pre-Professional Pointe
-
Must also take Level 2 Pointe, as well as all requirements for Pre-Professional track
Pre-Pointe Information
What is pre pointe?
Pre Pointe is a pointe preparation method involving softer shoes. Advancing into pointe shoes is entirely dependent upon toe, foot, and ankle strength. With pre-pointe shoes, students experience the feeling of a stiff box, similar to a a pointe shoe, but without the rigid shank on the soul of the foot. This trains the toes, feet, and ankles to become used to this type of shoe without the danger of standing en pointe with muscles and bone structure that are not yet ready to handle it.
My dancer is recommended for a pre-pointe or pointe class. What is the difference, and what shoes should they get?
All of our dancers start out in pre-pointe shoes and are recommended at the discretion of L’Ecole staff. These are crafted differently than flat ballet slippers and designed as an in-between training shoe to help ready the feet for pointe work. Dancers transition into pointe shoes at different times depending upon age, the structure of their feet, posture, and strength. It is typical to spend 1 - 2 years in pre-pointe shoes before getting pointe shoes. Transitioning into pointe shoes involves very specific technical expectations for the dancer’s bone structure and strength.
When will I go en pointe or move up?
Students are closely monitored by staff as they are working on demi-pointe or pointe at all levels. A few things we look for in terms of pointe readiness are:
the dancer never “sickles” their feet or allows their weight to lean outward towards towards the pinky toe while on relevé
consistent weekly training in order to build and maintain strength in the toes, feet, and ankles
the ability to balance on relevé on one foot for an extended period of time without wobbling
strong core muscles allowing the dancer to “pull up” out of the shoe
Overall, when looking at strength for pointework, please view the PDF above, titled “What Do I Need To Do?” in order to understand the basic criteria for strength and flexibility.
We work with our in-house Performing Arts Athletic Trainer, Amanda Donahue, in order to conduct pointe readiness screenings. We encourage you to email us with any questions!
I bought my shoes…can I sew them?
If you have been newly recommended for a pointe or pre-pointe class you must check the fit of your new shoes with Tiana, Zoe, or Amy before sewing them.
How do I sew my shoes?
The video linked below is a great resource! We will also meet with you and help you out when it is time to sew that first pair of shoes!