Location:

Richmond Academy of Ballet

413 Branchway Rd,

Suite C North Chesterfield, VA  23236

(804) 601-3024

Teacher Info:
Name: Kimberly Swartz

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Contact Info: (703) 314-9054 (texting this number is the best way to reach me)

What you should wear on your body and feet:

It's essential to wear something that you can move and stretch in.  Ballet tights ( for ballet) and a leotard are highly desirable because they allow unrestricted movement.  But, they are not necessary.  Any form-fitting top and bottom works great, too!  Ballet slippers are best, though if you initially don't want to invest in a pair of slippers, sneaker socks are fine, especially for your first class. 

 

Bare feet are not the best because it may be more difficult to execute some of the beginning movements.  But as the classes progress, socks may be too slippery, so I wouldn't recommend socks past the first class.  Ellman's Dance Boutique is the best local place for ballet slippers and jazz shoes.  Ballet slippers/ jazz shoes don't fit the same as street shoes, so it's important to try them on before you buy, and the salespersons at Ellman's should be able to help you get the right fit.  After you know the size and brand you like, you can order them from one of many online stores.  

 

Some of the places I've used through the years are:

Discount Dance

Dancewear NYC

Amazon

 

It's best to stay with brand names because there are a lot of companies that make "ballet slippers" but they're not properly made, and they can hinder your progress.  Some traditional names to look for are Capezio, Freed,  Bloch, Sansha, So Danca.  Ballet slippers from any one of these companies should work well.  You should avoid the ballet slippers sold at discount stores like Target and Walmart because they tend to have a thin cardboard insole, and they're not good for adults or children.  And they won't last long, making them a waste of money in the long run.  The ballet clothes that they sell are perfectly fine, though.  You should secure your hair away from your face if it is long.  A bun is not necessary, and ponytails are fine.

Additional items to bring to class:

• A theraband for conditioning floor and barre work.  

• We'll use therabands from time to time to perform exercises (that you can repeat at home!) that will improve the strength and flexibility in your feet and ankles. 

• A yoga mat for stretching and strengthening, floor exercises.

• A water bottle