Pointe ballet is what most people imagine when they picture a professional, graceful ballet dancer performing on stage. The style involves a trained dancer standing on the tips of their toes in specially designed shoes. Performing "en pointe" is no small feat, and it exhibits true finesse and poise. The following guide outlines some fun facts about this form of ballet to help you understand the technique.

What You Didn't Know About Pointe Ballet

1. It Involves Extensive Preparation

Before ballet dancers put on their first pair of pointe shoes, they should have years of training under their belts. Many students take up to 5 years of ballet classes before donning this professional footwear. 

Putting on these shoes isn't as simple as just sliding them on either; many dancers use adhesive tape and blister pads to prevent injuries resulting from the shoes. Individuals also must keep their feet well-manicured. Removing calluses and trimming toenails ensures they can dance in this specialized footwear without discomfort.

2. Pointe Shoes Are More Complicated Than They Look

Although pointe shoes look simple in design, they are densely packed with various materials. The toe portions of the shoes are made with many layers of paper and cardboard, which are hardened by glue. The rest of the shoe is made of leather, cotton, and satin. Elastic bands and ribbons are the final embellishments that dancers use to strap the shoes tightly to their feet and ankles for added support.

3. Dancers Must Break In New Shoes

Breaking in new pointe shoes is a unique process. Before wearing them for the first time, dancers bend the shoes in half to create give in the soles. 

The toe of the shoe also houses a box that supports the foot when standing on the tips of your toes. Dancers will press down on the top of the box area to soften it. They will also tiptoe around in their shoes, walking on the balls of their feet. This also helps break the boxes in before they start participating in more advanced moves. 

If your child is interested in the art of pointe ballet, sign them up for classes at Caledonia Dance & Music Center. They are one of the top dance studios in the Grand Rapids, MI area. Their caring instructors offer various dance classes for children, including pointe, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and more. They also offer ballroom-style dancing for adults. This center provides music lessons such as guitar, piano, and voice for kids, as well. This studio has highly trained teachers available for instruction, whether you're looking for private lessons or group training. Learn more online, or call (616) 891-1606 to speak with a friendly team member.