Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to have done any ballet before?
No. You are very welcome as a complete beginner, or as someone coming back to ballet after perhaps a long break.
If you’ve done a significant amount of ballet before, you may find the initial level too easy. I’m happy to discuss your options with you, and we’ll find the right solution.
What should I wear?
Something comfortable which you feel able to move in. Leggings and a T-shirt, jogging bottoms and a loose top – whatever suits you. There is no particular ‘uniform’ for Silver Swans, although the RAD do make some Silver Swans clothing (and I can get you a discount!).
What to wear on your feet is a slightly trickier one. For a start, a trainer or casual shoe which has some give will be fine. Socks alone will be too slippy.
Ballet shoes (sometimes known as ballet slippers) have very little in the way of support. If you wish to buy dance shoes – and you don’t have to! – jazz shoes might be better, as these provide some support underfoot. I am happy to help and advise.
Why do I need to book a place in class?
While Waunfawr Community Hall is a generous space, in order to keep everyone safe I am capping the class size at 10. This is why I ask you to book, so that I can keep an eye on numbers.
How much does it cost?
Silver Swans is £6 per class. It’s up to you if you want to pay in cash when you attend, or if you would rather be invoiced for a block of lessons.
If money is a problem, please feel free to speak to me: I would always rather that people who want to dance were able to dance.
Do I HAVE to be over 55 to attend?
It is not a hard and fast rule that you have to be over 55 to be a Silver Swan. However, the programme was developed to allow over-55s to access ballet classes.
Have you previously danced?
I have never really stopped dancing! I’m still taking classes myself: there is always room for improvement in ballet. So that I can understand the experience fully of doing ballet as an adult, I took my first exams since 2006 in November 2023 – and survived! I used to perform, but now I’m much more interested in teaching and choreography.
