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Meet the new jeté set: How boys are smashing the ballet stereotype
Sexism is built into the fabric of classical ballet, an art form that has always idolized women in toe shoes and tutus while relegating men to the role of partners, at least until the rare superstar emerges. Way back in the 20th century, Mikhail Baryshnikov and Rudolf Nureyev were icons. Even worse, young men who pursue careers as danseurs, or male ballet dancers, are highly likely to be stigmatized and bullied at school — and home — outcasts in a society that only sees ballet as feminine. Never mind that dancers train as hard as the most extreme athletes. Producer and director Scott Gormley and Houston Ballet soloist Harper Watters, who appears in the film, will give a talk afterward. I only use that as a motivation.
‘Danseur’ examines stereotypes of male ballet dancers
By Jonathan Wells. The London Boys Ballet School is unique. Founded in , this one of a kind, all-male institution is championing ballet for boys by focusing on strength, skill and power. And in doing so, it is sending traditional stereotypes pirouetting off into the distance. But I never had the guts to tell anybody how much I wanted to dance. I used to get stick at school just because my mother taught dance, even though I'd never had a go myself!
Both females and males can practice ballet; however, dancers have a strict hierarchy and strict gender roles. They rely on years of extensive training and proper technique to become a part of professional companies. Ballet dancers are at a high risk of injury due to the demanding technique of ballet. Ballet dancers typically begin training between the ages of 6 and 8 for females or 5 and 7 for male dancers if they desire to perform professionally. Training does not end when ballet dancers are hired by a professional company. They must attend ballet class six days a week to keep themselves fit and aware. Ballet is a strict form of art, and the dancer must be very athletic and flexible. Ballet dancers begin their classes at the barre , a wooden beam that runs along the walls of the ballet studio. Dancers use the barre to support themselves during exercises.