Canada's National Ballet School is one of the world's premier ballet schools, combining academic instruction with dance training. Some of the world's best dancers, including Karen Kain, Veronica Tennant and Rex Harrington, attended this prestigious school. Deborah Bowes instructed at the school for 45 years. Karen Kain was principal dancer for the National Ballet of Canada and is now the company's artistic director.
[Review of previous edition: ] Each chapter is written in easy-to-understand language, defining new terms and ballet expressions. The book covers finding a teacher and musical accompanist, specifications of the studio and what to wear. Terminology and steps to correct arm, feet, and body position are shown through photos. The importance of healthy meals and snacks, the need for exercises to improve posture, alignment, stance, and stamina are included. This book is a pleasure to read because of its smooth, graceful writing, and descriptive explanations.--Susan Shaver""Book Report"" (02/01/2000) [Review of previous edition: ] A detailed, practical guide for serious ballet students ... To balance collections heavy on colorful ballet books for browsers with stars in their eyes, here's a guide for ballet students who are ready to get down to work.--Carolyn Phelan""Booklist"" (11/15/1999) [Review of previous edition: ] This comprehensive guide, written by a teacher at Canada's National Ballet School, helps youngsters who love ballet to understand the hard work and commitment involved in classical dance training.--Susan Pine""School Library Journal"" (11/01/1999)