Thu, 13 Aug 2026 19:15:33 -0700WeeblyFri, 07 Aug 2026 17:52:37 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/finding-the-right-dance-studioWhy “Best” Really Means “Best Fit”Back-to-school season means new shoes, new schedules, new routines and, for many families, deciding where their dancer will train for the year.
If you have a serious dancer, that decision can get complicated quickly. How many ballet classes should they take? Is there enough performance experience? What about competition? PBT? Who teaches the advanced classes? Can we somehow make all of this happen without permanently living in the car?
All good questions.
But there is another question families sometimes forget to ask:

Do we actually believe in the way this school trains dancers?
Because the “best” dance studio isn’t necessarily the one with the most classes, biggest competition team, fanciest facility or teacher with the longest résumé.
It’s the one whose philosophy, expectations and culture are the best fit for your dancer and your family.

Different Doesn’t Mean Wrong
When families come to us from another school, we often hear, “At our old studio, we did it this way.” That’s helpful. It tells us what your dancer is accustomed to. But it doesn’t necessarily mean we are going to do it that way.
Not all Dance schools are franchises. There is no single schedule or curriculum every reputable school follows. One may emphasize competition. Another may emphasize performance. One may require more weekly ballet classes. Another may structure conditioning differently.
Qualified professionals can make different choices for very good reasons.
PBT is a perfect example. One of our faculty members is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique, and she prefers PBT after ballet technique. Her dancers are already thoroughly warm, allowing her to take advantage of that preparation for conditioning and a more significant stretch.
Another qualified instructor may prefer PBT first.
Neither automatically makes the other wrong.
Sometimes there is actually a reason behind that schedule you are staring at.

Sometimes the Empty Space Is There on Purpose
Parents naturally look at a schedule through the lens of their own child.
We have to look at it through the lens of an entire organization.
We consider enrollment, curriculum, studio availability, faculty schedules, rehearsals, private coaching, productions and performances.
We also consider something surprisingly easy to forget:

Teachers are human beings.
If faculty members are teaching and rehearsing Friday, Saturday and Sunday, a blank space somewhere else in the week may not be an oversight waiting to be fixed.
It may be their day off.
We want exceptional faculty. We would also like them to rest.
More is not automatically better.

Our Schedule Changes. Just Not for One Person.
Our Academy schedule absolutely changes.
If enrollment grows and we see a need, we may add a class. If one student enrolls in a class, we may combine or shorten it. As our students grow, our curriculum has to grow with them.

But there is a difference between responding to the needs of the program and creating a customized school schedule for one dancer.

We absolutely want families to tell us:
“My dancer wants more ballet.”
“She wants to compete.”
“He needs more performance opportunities.”
“We’re preparing for college auditions.”
That information matters.

Tell us what your dancer needs. Let us determine how our program can best meet that need. Sometimes the answer may be that we can’t. And that’s okay.

Placement Is Not a judgment
This is especially important for dancers transferring from another school. “Ballet 4” does not mean the same thing everywhere. That’s why we evaluate dancers before placing them into our intermediate and advanced curriculum. We need to know where a dancer fits within our progression. Placement is not a judgment of talent or potential.

Putting a dancer into a level before they have the foundation to succeed doesn’t do them a favor. It creates gaps that become much harder to correct later.
Ballet has an irritating habit of eventually finding those gaps.

More Classes Don’t Automatically Mean Better Training
Technique matters. So do rehearsals, coaching, conditioning, performance experience and recovery.

A Variations class, for example, doesn’t mean dancers walk in cold and immediately start launching themselves into difficult choreography. A properly structured Variations class includes the warm-up necessary to prepare dancers for the work ahead.
And rehearsing isn't time “away from training.”

At some point, dancers have to take everything they learn at the barre and figure out how to use it onstage.

That’s how we develop artists, not just really good class-takers.

Choose the Program, Not Just the Teacher.

A wonderful teacher can absolutely lead you to a school. The relationship between a dancer and teacher can be incredibly important.
But if you are considering changing studios because of one instructor, ask yourself:
Would we still believe in this program if that teacher weren’t here?
Teachers move. They perform. They take new opportunities. Life happens.
A healthy school cannot be built around one person.
Choose teachers you trust.
But also choose an organization you trust.

Advocacy Is Important. So Is Trust.
Parents should advocate for their children. You know your child in ways we never will. Tell us what they need, what they're struggling with and what they're hoping to accomplish.
We need that information.
But once you've chosen professionals you trust, give them room to do their jobs.
There is a difference between saying:
“This is what my dancer needs. Can your program provide it?”
and
“This is what my dancer needs. Please change your program to provide it.”
Those are very different conversations.

Sometimes We Aren’t the Right Studio.

Alamo City Arts Academy is not the right school for every dancer.
No dance school is. If another program offers exactly the schedule, philosophy, competition emphasis or environment your family wants, choosing that program may be the smartest decision you can make.
We would much rather have that conversation before you uproot a dancer from a place where they are already established than discover three months later that you expected our program to be something it isn't.

We don't want families to choose ACA because we convinced them we're “better.”

We want families to understand who we are and say:
“Yes. That's how I want my child to learn.”

Because ultimately, we're not just trying to move dancers to the next level, variation, competition or role.

We're trying to develop artists and healthy human beings who work hard, accept correction, treat people well, celebrate someone else's success and learn how to handle disappointment.

Sometimes responsible training means adding another class.
Sometimes it means strengthening the foundation.
Sometimes it means performing.
Sometimes it means resting.

And sometimes a wonderful dancer and a wonderful dance school simply aren't the right fit for each other.

That's okay.

​Choosing a dance studio shouldn't be about finding the school willing to promise you the most.
It should be about finding the people whose judgment you trust when the answer isn't what you expected.
And if another studio offers ballet seven days a week, PBT before breakfast, Variations at lunch and leaps and turns under the full moon, wonderful. That may be exactly what your dancer needs. We just haven't added Moonlight Leaps and Turns to the schedule. Yet. 😏]]>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:42:51 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/the-best-back-to-school-supply-isnt-in-a-backpackEvery August, parents become project managers. There are backpacks to buy, lunch boxes to label, shoes that somehow no longer fit, teacher wish lists, school supplies, immunization records, schedules to memorize, and at least one child who suddenly remembers at 9:30 p.m. that they needed poster board for tomorrow.

Then comes the question I hear every year.

"When should we start dance?"

My answer is almost always the same. Before school starts.

It may sound backwards. Most people assume they should wait until everyone settles into a routine before adding another activity. In reality, we've found the exact opposite is true.
When your child begins dance or music before school starts, one part of your family's schedule is already established by the time that first bell rings. Your child already knows where to go. They've met their teacher, made a few new friends, figured out where their dance shoes belong, and hopefully discovered which parent packed the correct tights.
Instead of adjusting to school, homework, dance, and an entirely new routine all in the same week, you've already checked one important thing off the list. That makes the transition easier for everyone.
Even you.

Dance Is More Than an After-School Activity

Let's be honest. Kids have a lot on their plates today.

Homework starts earlier than it used to. Expectations seem higher every year. Social media has created pressures many of us never experienced growing up, and even elementary-aged students can feel the weight of busy schedules.

Adults usually have an outlet. We go to the gym, work in the yard, meet friends for coffee, or unwind with a favorite television show. Kids deserve healthy outlets too.
Sometimes the best part of a student's day is walking into the studio, putting away their backpack, and spending an hour moving, laughing, creating, and not thinking about tomorrow's spelling test. Dance and music provide a chance to breathe, reset, and simply enjoy being a kid.

The Arts Support Academic Success
One of the biggest misconceptions about arts education is that it somehow competes with academics.

It doesn't.

Dance develops sequencing, coordination, balance, focus, discipline, and problem-solving. Music strengthens listening skills, pattern recognition, memory, language development, and mathematical thinking. Theater builds confidence, public speaking, collaboration, reading comprehension, and communication.

These aren't separate from academic success. They're part of it.

The funny thing is that students rarely realize they're building these skills because they're too busy having fun. That's often when the best learning happens.

Why the Arts Matter
I heard something recently that has stuck with me.

Someone said that as long as schools are measured primarily by standardized testing, the arts will always struggle to receive the same attention as tested subjects.

Whether you agree with that statement or not, it raises an interesting question.

If creativity isn't on the test, does that make it any less important?

I don't think so.

In fact, I think we see evidence of the opposite every single day.

We spend a lot of time talking about STEM education, and rightfully so. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics have changed our world. But have you ever stopped to think about what most of us actually do with all that amazing technology?

We stream music. We watch movies. We binge television shows. We listen to podcasts. We play video games. We admire photography. We scroll through artwork, choreography, graphic design, animation, and storytelling.

Technology connects us to information.

Art gives us something worth connecting to.

The engineer built the iPhone.

The artist filled it.

Without musicians, filmmakers, dancers, actors, writers, photographers, designers, and storytellers, that incredible piece of technology becomes a very expensive calculator.

The arts aren't the opposite of STEM. They're one of the reasons STEM exists. We build amazing technology because humans have an endless desire to create, communicate, and share ideas with one another.

More Than Better Dancers
One of my favorite parts of teaching isn't watching students become better dancers.
It's watching the quiet child gain confidence. It's watching students encourage each other after a difficult class. It's seeing a child realize that making a mistake isn't failure. It's simply part of learning.

Those lessons don't stay in the studio.

They show up in classrooms, friendships, future careers, and everyday life.

That is why I believe dance, music, theater, and the visual arts matter so much. They don't just teach students how to perform. They teach them how to think creatively, solve problems, persevere, and work with others.

One More Thing to Add to the Back-to-School List
So yes, buy the crayons.

Buy the pencils.

Buy the folders that will somehow vanish before Labor Day.

But don't forget one of the most valuable back-to-school supplies your child can have.

A place where they can move.

A place where they can create.

A place where they can discover what they're capable of.

We hope Alamo City Arts Academy can be that place.

Here's to a wonderful school year. We can't wait to be part of it.
]]>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:46:36 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/why-we-dont-measure-success-by-trophiesIn the dance world, awards often become an easy shorthand for success. Titles, banners, and placements can be exciting and motivating, and competition absolutely has a place in dance education. But at Alamo City Arts, it has never been the lens through which we define excellence.
We are not a traditional competition studio.
We are a performance studio.
That choice has been intentional from the beginning.
Awards and What Lasts
I once heard Snoop Dogg talk about how he has never won a Grammy, but through a youth football program he created, dozens of kids have gone on to play in the NFL. He shared that those outcomes mattered more to him than any award ever could.
That perspective has stayed with me.
Awards are visible and exciting in the moment.
Impact shows itself quietly, over time.
Both have value, but they are not the same thing.
How Competition Fits Into Our Program
We do attend competitions. Thoughtfully and selectively.
They are one of many experiences our dancers may have along the way.
Competitions can offer stage time, feedback, shared goals, and wonderful memories. What we are careful about is not letting a single weekend define a dancer’s training, potential, or sense of worth.
For us, competition is a tool, not an identity.
Choosing Meaningful Opportunities
Recently, one of our companies was invited to perform at the 190th Anniversary Gala for The Alamo.
Accepting that invitation meant stepping away from a scheduled competition. It wasn’t a difficult decision.
Performing for a historic civic event, representing our city and serving the community through the arts, offered our dancers a professional, purpose-driven experience. It placed them in a setting that required focus, responsibility, and artistry, and reminded them that dance has the power to connect, honor, and contribute.
Those moments stay with dancers long after trophies are packed away.
A Note on Ballet and Long-Term Training
This is something I often share with families as dancers grow:
Professional ballet companies, conservatories, and collegiate programs are not focused on competition titles alone. They look closely at consistency, training environment, and a dancer’s ability to handle daily class, rehearsals, and repertory.
Summer intensives attended, invitations to return, and growth within structured programs often speak louder than rankings. Strong foundations, work ethic, and artistry are what sustain dancers over time.
What We Focus On
At Alamo City Arts, our priorities include:

• Long-term technical development
• Musicality and artistry
• Rehearsal discipline and professionalism
• Ensemble awareness and collaboration
• Performance experience in full-length productions
• Preparing dancers for college, professional paths, or lifelong engagement in the arts

We want dancers who understand process, who can grow steadily, and who feel supported rather than pressured.
A Personal Perspective
As an artistic director, I try to be thoughtful about the systems I participate in and the culture we create. I have never been drawn to purchased recognition, and that belief naturally shapes how our programs are structured.
From the beginning, we have made choices that balance opportunity with sustainability, and ambition with care. We are mindful of time, cost, and expectations, always asking what truly serves our students and families in the long run.
Our goal has never been to build the biggest studio or collect the most banners.
It has been to build something meaningful, lasting, and rooted in purpose.
How We Define Success
Success, to us, looks like:

• Dancers who remain engaged and growing year after year
• Students who gain confidence, discipline, and resilience
• Alumni who continue dancing in college, companies, or community programs
• Performers who understand responsibility and respect for the art
• Artists who use their gifts to enrich their community

Those outcomes can’t be rushed, purchased, or measured in a single weekend.
Standing in Our Values
There are many wonderful studios and many valid approaches to dance education. This is simply ours.
We value performance over placement.
Process over pressure.
Impact over applause.
And we are grateful to share that journey with our dancers and families.]]>Thu, 08 Jan 2026 02:03:32 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/getting-back-into-the-groove-a-smart-start-to-the-new-dance-seasonThere is something special about returning to the studio. The music feels familiar, the space feels like home, and the excitement of moving together again reminds us why we dance. We are so excited to welcome everyone back and begin this next chapter of training, growth, and creativity.
As energizing as it is to jump back in, this is also the moment to be intentional. After a long performance season followed by a holiday break, it is completely normal for the body to feel a little out of sync. Muscles, joints, and even stamina may need time to wake back up. That is okay.
Take it slow in those first few classes.
Easing back into training helps prevent injury and allows your body to rebuild strength safely. Pushing too hard too fast can shock the system, especially after weeks of intense performances followed by rest and celebration. Progress does not disappear over a break, but it does need to be reawakened with care.
Remember that dancers are athletes.
Training is not just about showing up to class. It is about building strength, coordination, endurance, and mental focus over time. Just like any athlete returning from an off-season, dancers need a thoughtful approach to conditioning and recovery.
Fuel matters.
Healthy food choices give your body the energy it needs to train well and recover properly. Pair that with good hydration and consistent meals, and you will feel the difference in your stamina, focus, and overall mood.
Sleep is part of training.
A good night’s sleep is one of the most powerful tools for injury prevention and mental clarity. Rest allows muscles to repair and the mind to stay sharp, which is essential as schedules pick up again.
If at any point you feel unsure, overwhelmed, or simply need extra help or guidance, please remember that we are always here to support you. Whether it is questions about pacing, conditioning, class placement, or overall wellness, do not hesitate to reach out. Asking for guidance is part of training smart.
Our goal as we head into this season is simple: train smart, stay healthy, and avoid the pre-spring break burnout. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Strong foundations now lead to confident performances later.
We are so glad you are back in the studio with us. Let us ease into the rhythm together and set ourselves up for a healthy, successful season ahead.]]>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:45:54 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/getting-ready-for-the-holiday-stage-tips-for-dancers-parentsOctober is one of my favorite times of the year in the studio. The energy starts to shift as rehearsals build, costumes arrive, and dancers begin to see all their hard work come together on stage. The holiday season is a time of magic, tradition, and community, and it is also one of the busiest times of the year for our dancers and families.
To help make this season as smooth and joyful as possible, I’ve gathered a few tips to set everyone up for success.
1. Focus on Physical Preparation
Consistency is key right now. Encourage your dancer to attend class regularly and give their full attention during rehearsals. This is the time to strengthen technique, build stamina, and maintain flexibility. Simple habits like proper warm-ups, cool-downs, and hydration go a long way in keeping dancers healthy and performance ready.
If your dancer is feeling tired or sore, that is normal as the workload picks up. Encourage them to listen to their body, rest when needed, and fuel themselves with nutritious meals and snacks.
2. Cultivate a Rehearsal Mindset
The rehearsal room is where the magic happens, even when it does not feel glamorous. Mistakes are part of the process. They are how great performances are built. Remind your dancer to stay patient, trust the process, and focus on progress, not perfection.
Visualization, quiet focus, and a positive attitude can make a big difference in how dancers carry themselves through long rehearsals.
3. Costume, Shoes and Logistics Matter Too
A polished performance is not just about the choreography. It is also about the details. Now is the time to check that costumes fit properly, shoes are broken in, and accessories are performance ready.
Make sure your dancer has everything labeled, packed, and in good condition. This small preparation helps avoid stress later when performance week arrives.
4. Support from Home Makes a Difference
Parents and families are an essential part of every performance. Creating a calm, supportive environment at home helps dancers stay focused and confident.
Some simple ways to help:

• Offer encouragement rather than correction.
• Help them stay organized with rehearsals and call times.
• Make sure they get enough rest and healthy meals.
• Provide quiet space for review or mental reset when needed.

5. Set Goals and Celebrate Milestones
​Encourage your dancer to set small, achievable goals each week, whether it is nailing a tricky sequence, improving a turn, or simply feeling more confident on stage. Celebrate the wins, no matter how small. These little moments build momentum.

As we head into performance season, remember that every rehearsal, every count, and every moment matters. Our dancers shine brightest when they feel supported, prepared, and proud of their work.
I’m so excited to share the holiday stage with each of you. Let’s make this season one to remember!]]>Wed, 27 Aug 2025 04:09:12 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/august-26th-2025One of the hardest parts of running an arts academy is knowing when to say enough is enough. We had to do it today. We love our students and families, and we want everyone to feel welcome here. But welcome does not mean we will accept toxicity in favor of growth or capitalism.
There’s a book I love called FIRE Your Customers by Humza Chowdhry. The message is simple: not every customer is worth keeping. Some drain time, morale, and resources and letting them go frees you to focus on the ones who bring real value. A few of the takeaways stick with me: quality is more important than quantity; disrespect and constant negativity are red flags; bad customers lower morale and drive away good people; and most importantly, staff should know that leadership will always back them up. By “firing” bad customers, you create more room for the ones who truly value what you do.
If you have an issue or concern, come talk to Cory McRae, our President and CEO, or to me as Artistic Director. Don’t be a toxic presence in the lobby. Don’t take it out on our staff, volunteers, or dancers. We can talk it out, and yes, you can be upset with me, even rude to me if that’s where you are that day. We’ll have a bad day together. But I will not allow that energy to fall on the people who are here to teach, to give, and to learn.
Cory and I have both witnessed firsthand what a toxic dance environment can do to students long before we came onto the board to Alamo City Arts. We have also seen how a toxic lobby environment can discourage parents from wanting to be a part of a program. Those experiences shaped us, and we are committed to making sure Alamo City Arts never becomes that kind of place.
That means we have clear boundaries:

• We do not tolerate teachers being disrespectful to each other, parents, or students.
• We do not accept parents being rude to each other, our staff, teachers, students, or even their own children.
• We do not accept students being disrespectful to anyone — including their own parents.

Because here’s the truth: we do dismiss families. Not lightly, not casually, but when behavior threatens the safe and supportive environment we promise our community. That includes:

• Rudeness or hostility toward staff, volunteers, or dancers
• Damaging property, costumes, or sets
• Bullying — whether in person, backstage, in the lobby, or online
• Toxic behavior that disrupts our community

Why? Because creating a safe space for everyone matters more than keeping every tuition dollar. We are growing, and we’re proud of that. But growth cannot come at the expense of respect.
At Alamo City Arts, our mission is bigger than productions and classes. We are here to build community, to inspire creativity, and to help people discover themselves through the arts. That only happens in an environment where people feel safe, valued, and respected.
So when I have to choose between tolerating toxicity or standing by my people, I’ll choose my people. Every. Single. Time.]]>Tue, 22 Apr 2025 18:03:41 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/why-summer-classes-matter-for-dance-music-and-voiceA behind-the-scenes look at why summer might be the most important season for young performers.
As the school year wraps up and families begin to shift into summer mode, it can be tempting to hit pause on structured activities like dance, music, and voice lessons. After all, kids need time to relax — and so do parents. But while a break is important, what often gets overlooked is just how much growth can happen in the summer months when students stay engaged in the arts.

​At Alamo City Arts Academy, we see summer not as a time to slow down, but as a season of opportunity. Summer classes offer a unique environment where students can build momentum, refine their technique, and explore new artistic challenges. With smaller class sizes and a more relaxed pace, instructors can give more personalized feedback. That focused attention often leads to breakthroughs in both skill and confidence.

One of the most important benefits of summer study is consistency. Whether your child is a dancer, singer, or musician, progress requires regular practice. Extended time away from training often means students return in the fall needing to rebuild stamina and technique. Summer helps maintain that foundation — or even strengthen it.

Summer is also the best time to prepare for upcoming auditions. At Alamo City Arts Academy, we hold auditions in August for our major programs: The Nutcracker, Alamo City Ballet Folklorico, and Alamo City Stage Company. Students who train during the summer enter the audition room physically ready, mentally focused, and ahead of the curve. Audition day is not the time to shake off the rust.

But it’s not just about discipline and technique — summer at the Academy is fun. We build our schedule with energy and creativity in mind. Students can look forward to theme weeks, special treats, and early access to choreography for major productions like The Nutcracker, the Ford Holiday River Parade, and Las Posadas. They get to be part of the magic from the ground up, which creates a deeper sense of ownership and excitement for the season ahead.

Summer also gives students the freedom to try something new. Whether it’s musical theatre, contemporary dance, or vocal ensemble work, our summer programs offer a variety of classes that aren’t always available during the regular year. This is a time to explore, take risks, and stretch creatively in a supportive environment.

Ultimately, summer isn’t just a bridge between seasons — it’s a launching pad. The skills, confidence, and community built over the summer carry forward into the fall and beyond.
Enrollment for summer classes is open now. We’d love to help your child keep growing, stay inspired, and have some serious fun along the way. For more about our philosophy, summer offerings, and audition prep, visit the Director’s Corner at AlamoCityArtsAcademy.org.
Let’s make this summer one to remember — in and out of the studio.]]>Wed, 16 Apr 2025 17:38:54 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/why-didnt-my-dancer-get-promoted-to-the-next-levelAt Alamo City Arts Academy, we’re deeply invested in the growth and success of every student. When we evaluate whether a dancer is ready to move to the next level, it’s not just about talent—it’s about readiness, responsibility, and consistency.
If your dancer wasn’t promoted this time, it’s not a reflection of failure. It’s a sign that we want to give them the time and structure they need to thrive. Here's what we look at and why it matters:

1. Attendance, Timeliness, and Uniform Are Non-Negotiables
​Before technique even comes into the conversation, we start with the basics. These are the first and most important markers of readiness:

• Regular attendance – If a dancer isn’t consistently in class, they’re missing the repetition and reinforcement necessary for growth. Dance is cumulative—missing one or two classes a month adds up quickly.
• Showing up on time – Arriving late, even by just a few minutes, causes a dancer to miss warm-ups, disrupts the class, and sets the tone that dance is optional. It's not.
• Wearing the full, correct uniform from head to toe – That means hair is up as required, the correct leotard and tights are worn, and appropriate shoes are brought every time. Being out of dress code is not a fashion choice—it’s a sign that a dancer isn’t taking class seriously.

We hear a lot of the same explanations--“We had a school concert for three weeks,” “Traffic was really bad,” “She just hates putting her hair up.” We understand that life happens. But if these issues are happening regularly, it’s a clear indicator that the dancer—and sometimes the parent—is not ready for the higher level of commitment required to progress.
We know younger dancers don’t drive themselves. So if a child is often late or missing class, we also consider whether the family as a whole is in a position to support the expectations of the next level. That’s not judgment—it’s part of the reality of managing growth and success.

2. Technique and Development Take Time 
Once a dancer shows consistency, readiness, and respect for class, we evaluate their technical development. Not all dancers progress at the same rate—and that’s okay. We want students to feel confident, strong, and capable in their level. Moving up too quickly can do more harm than good.
Students blossom at different times. Some need an extra semester or season to fully develop strength, coordination, or maturity. Holding a dancer in the same level allows them to master their foundation and step confidently into the next phase when they’re truly ready.

3. We're Partners in Your Dancer’s Success 
Our goal is never to hold anyone back—it’s to set every dancer up for success. If your child wasn’t promoted this time, it’s because we believe they’ll benefit from more time to grow, refine, and build the habits that lead to long-term success in dance—and in life.
Have questions? Reach out. We’re always here to have a conversation and partner with you in your dancer’s journey.]]>Sat, 15 Feb 2025 16:08:00 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/why-alamo-city-arts-academy-has-a-set-criteria-for-pointeAt Alamo City Arts Academy, we get asked all the time, “When can my 7-year-old who has danced for a year do pointe?” or “I’m 13 and just started ballet—why can’t I go on pointe?” We know it’s exciting to dream of dancing en pointe, but the truth is, pointe work is not just about age or enthusiasm—it’s about physical readiness, strength, and proper technique. That’s why we have strict criteria to ensure our dancers are prepared before making this big step.
Why We Do Not Allow Dancers Under 12 to Begin Pointe
The bones in a dancer’s feet don’t fully develop and harden until around ages 13-15. If a dancer starts pointe too early, before their feet and muscles are strong enough, it can lead to serious and even permanent damage. That’s why we require dancers to be at least 12 years old and meet other specific criteria before they are considered ready for pointe.
We follow international ballet guidelines set by organizations like the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) National Training Curriculum, which emphasize that pointe work should not begin before a dancer is physically prepared. Even the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), one of the world’s most prestigious ballet competitions, does not allow dancers under 12 to compete en pointe, reinforcing the global standard for pointe readiness.
Pointe Readiness Criteria
To safely advance to pointe, a dancer must meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 12 years old.
   • The bones of the feet are still developing before this age, and early pointe work can cause lasting damage.
2. Have a healthy muscle structure.
   • Strong muscles are essential to support the foot and ankle en pointe.
3. Have a sufficiently arched instep.
   • A strong, flexible arch helps with proper weight distribution on pointe.
4. Have at least three years of consistent ballet training.
   • A solid ballet foundation is crucial before attempting pointe work.
5. Take at least three ballet classes per week (totaling at least five hours).
   • Regular class attendance is vital! Consistency is key to developing strength, muscle memory, and proper technique. Missing classes means missing out on building the skills needed for pointe.
6. Be able to maintain correct turnout while dancing from flat to demi-pointe.
   • Turnout should come from the hips, not the feet or knees, to prevent injury.
7. Maintain a strong, straight torso without pelvic tilt.
   • Core strength keeps the dancer balanced and prevents misalignment en pointe.
8. Execute a proper demi-plié in all transitions.
   • Knees must be aligned with the second toe while maintaining heel contact with the floor.
9. Fully point the feet without sickling.
   • Proper foot articulation is essential for strength and technique.
10. Perform piqué passé with a straight leg.
    • Strength in this movement is necessary for controlled pointe work.
11. Complete 16 relevés in the center on half-pointe without stopping.
    • This demonstrates the calf and ankle strength needed for pointe work.
12. Balance in passé on half-pointe.
    • Good balance and alignment are key for pointe readiness.
13. Be in good health and able to complete an entire ballet class.
    • If a dancer frequently has to rest due to fatigue, illness, or injury, they may not yet have the endurance for pointe work.

Why Regular Class Attendance is So Important?
One of the biggest factors in pointe readiness is consistent training. A dancer who only takes one or two ballet classes a week or frequently misses class will not develop the strength, technique, and muscle memory needed for pointe. Pointe work is demanding and requires a strong foundation built over time. By attending class regularly, dancers ensure they are strengthening their feet, ankles, and core to handle the extra stress of dancing en pointe.
Exercises to Prepare for Pointe Work
If you’re eager to get on pointe, the best thing you can do is focus on building strength, flexibility, and balance. Here are some key exercises to help prepare:
Strengthening Exercises

• Theraband Foot Exercises: Strengthen foot and toe muscles.
• Relevés: Two-legged and single-legged relevés build ankle stability.
• Calf Raises: Strengthen the calf muscles and improve stability.
• Doming (Toe Curls): Target the small muscles of the feet for increased strength.

Flexibility Exercises

• Foot Stretchers and Therabands: Increase arch flexibility.
• Toe Stretches and Ankle Circles: Improve mobility and articulation.

Balance and Core Strengthening

• Single-Leg Balances: Enhance stability for pointe work.
• Bosu Ball or Balance Board Exercises: Improve ankle strength.
• Planks and Pilates: Strengthen core muscles for better alignment.

Technique and Alignment Training

• Elevé and Relevé Practice: Reinforce proper positioning.
• Pre-Pointe Classes: Provide structured preparation under an experienced instructor.

Our Commitment to Safe and Successful Pointe Training
​We know that many young dancers are eager to go on pointe, but we always prioritize safety and long-term success over rushing the process. Our goal is to guide dancers through this exciting milestone when their bodies are fully prepared, reducing the risk of injury and setting them up for a strong future in ballet.
If you have questions about our pointe readiness criteria or how to prepare, talk to your instructor—but please respect their decision and remember that they are looking out for your safety.

]]>Wed, 29 Jan 2025 23:14:27 GMThttps://www.alamocityartsacademy.org/directors-corner/falling-in-love-with-dance-a-lifelong-journey-of-joy-and-expressionDance is more than movement—it is a universal language, an art form that transcends barriers, and a celebration of life. Whether you’ve been dancing since childhood or have yet to take your first step onto the dance floor, there’s something magical about the way dance connects us to music, emotions, and each other. Falling in love with dance is a journey that can begin at any age, in any style, and for any reason.
The Many Beautiful Styles of DanceDance is as diverse as the cultures that inspire it. From the grace of ballet to the energy of hip-hop, every style offers a unique experience:

• Ballet – A classical and elegant form of dance that builds strength, discipline, and flexibility. It’s often seen as the foundation of many other dance styles.
• Jazz – A lively and expressive genre that blends technical skill with freedom of movement, often performed to upbeat music.
• Hip-Hop – A dynamic and rhythmic dance style that originated from street culture, known for its improvisation and powerful energy.
• Tap – A percussive dance that turns the body into a musical instrument, emphasizing rhythm and intricate footwork.
• Ballroom & Latin – Social dances like the waltz, tango, salsa, and cha-cha bring elegance and excitement to the dance floor.
• Ballet Folklórico – A vibrant and cultural dance form that tells stories through traditional Mexican folk dance.
• Contemporary – A fusion of ballet and modern dance, contemporary dance emphasizes fluidity, emotion, and personal expression.

With so many styles to explore, there’s a dance form for everyone, whether you seek structure and precision or free-spirited movement.
The Benefits of Dance for All AgesDance is not just an art—it’s a powerful tool for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Regardless of age or ability, dancing has remarkable benefits:

• For Children – Dance helps young ones develop coordination, confidence, social skills, and a love for movement.
• For Teens – It provides a creative outlet, encourages discipline, and fosters self-expression during crucial developmental years.
• For Adults – Dance offers a fun way to stay active, reduce stress, and embrace a new hobby that challenges the mind and body.
• For Seniors – Gentle dance styles can enhance mobility, balance, and cognitive function while offering social engagement.

Finding Your Own Dance StoryEveryone’s dance journey is different. Some people dance to perform, while others dance for fitness, therapy, or pure enjoyment. Whatever your reason, stepping onto the dance floor opens up a world of creativity, community, and personal growth.
If you’ve ever thought about trying a dance class, now is the perfect time. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of ballet, the fire of Latin dance, or the freedom of contemporary movement, dance has a place for you. Let yourself fall in love with the rhythm, the artistry, and the joy that comes with every step.
I have enjoyed being part of the development of Alamo City Arts Academy and sharing my love of dance. I make sure our teachers share their love and passion, and our dancers feel they are loved. We have created a safe space to grow, where every dancer is encouraged to flourish and embrace their unique journey.
At Alamo City Arts Academy, we welcome dancers of all ages and levels to discover their passion and embrace the magic of movement. Join us, and let dance become a cherished part of your life’s journey!]]>