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As ballet teachers, we are often asked the same questions by students and parents: What happens inside the examination room? What are examiners really looking for? Why can’t exams be rescheduled? This guide aims to give a clear and honest understanding of the RAD examination process, and what truly matters. 1. What Happens Inside the Examination Room When students enter the exam room, the environment is calm, quiet, and professional. The examiner is already seated, observing.

Coppélia is a light-hearted classical ballet that blends comedy with strong character work. Unlike many traditional ballets filled with tragedy and heartbreak, Coppélia focuses on humour, clarity, and expressive storytelling. The story centres around a life-like doll named Coppélia, a curious young girl named Swanilda, and how Swanilda ultimately saves her relationship through intelligence and courage. Because of its accessible narrative and playful style, Coppélia is often o

Turnout is one of the most recognisable elements of classical ballet, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many dancers (and parents) believe that better turnout simply means forcing the feet to open wider . In reality, safe and sustainable turnout is built through correct anatomy, strength, coordination, and time . True turnout is something we train , not something we push. Understanding Where Turnout Comes From True turnout originates from the hip joints , not the f

Many dancers find that développé devant is the most challenging direction. Side and back extensions often feel easier, but lifting the leg to the front while staying upright and controlled requires a different combination of flexibility, strength, and alignment. A higher développé devant isn’t just about flexibility — it’s about strength, coordination, and control . Many dancers focus on lifting the leg higher, but true improvement comes from stretching in correct way, engagi

Balance is one of the most important foundations in dance, yet it’s also one of the most challenging skills to master. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced dancer, improving your balance can help you feel more stable, confident, and in control of your movements. The good news is that balance isn’t something you’re “born with” — it’s something you can train every day. With the right simple exercises, you can strengthen your supporting muscles, improve your posture, and red

Stretching is a big part of every dancer’s routine, whether you’re warming up before class or winding down after. But not all stretches are created equal. Knowing when  and how  to stretch can make a huge difference in your flexibility, strength, and injury prevention. Let’s look at the two main types of stretching: static  and dynamic , and how to use each effectively. What Is Static Stretching? Static stretching  means holding a position for a period of time, usually betwee

People often think ballet is something that has to begin at a young age. It’s true that many professional dancers start young, but that doesn’t mean ballet is closed off to everyone else. There’s another way to experience ballet — not for competition or career, but as a way to appreciate it as an art form, to stay active, or simply to enjoy a lifelong passion. That’s where the RAD Silver Swans® programme comes in. Designed especially for learners over 55, Silver Swans offer

Are you preparing for a vocational exam soon? Beyond mastering the syllabus, there’s so much more that goes into a confident, successful performance. With their emphasis on technique, musicality, and artistry, RAD vocational exams are designed for students who want to study classical ballet in greater depth. To meet this challenge, you need both the physical strength to sustain your dancing and the mental resilience to present it with joy. Here’s how you can prepare your body

Let’s be honest — the attitude might be the most confusing ballet position out there. It’s not a retire. It’s not a long arabesque. It’s somewhere in between — bent, lifted, turned out… but still elegant? The attitude is one of ballet’s most iconic poses — elegant, expressive, and technically challenging. Whether performed devant (to the front), à la seconde  (to the side), or derrière  (to the back), a clean attitude shows control, placement, and strength. But how do you mak

La Sylphide is a timeless Romantic ballet that tells the story of a young Scottish farmer who falls under the spell of a mysterious forest spirit. Featuring ethereal choreography, flowing white costumes, and a hauntingly beautiful score, it was the first full ballet blanc and helped shape the Romantic ballet era. Learn about its history, characters, and enduring influence on classical ballet.

The Importance of Good Posture Good ballet posture isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s the foundation for balance, strength, and injury...

Beginning pointe is an exciting milestone in a ballet dancer’s journey, but it requires proper preparation, strength, and guidance. This guide covers the fundamentals of pointe readiness, shoe fitting, injury prevention, and safe training practices. Whether you're a student, parent, or teacher, learn what it takes to transition to pointe work safely and successfully—with confidence, control, and care.

How to Warm Up for Ballet Exams: Prevent Injuries, Improve Flexibility & Step into the Exam Room with Confidence! 🩰✨

In the ultimate tale of forbidden love, two young people risk everything to be together.

Start 2025 right with our top 10 tips for improving your ballet form!

Discover the 'Golden Age' of Russian ballet with Raymonda, a tale of love, bravery, and cultural intrigue!

Mastering arm movements is essential for every dancer, bringing grace and fluidity to any ballet performance. The port de bras requires...

Ballet is an art form characterised by its elegance, control, and beauty. Beneath its polished exterior, Ballet offers unique physical,...

In ballet, the développé  refers to the smooth, gradual unfolding of the leg, which can be extended to the front ( devant ), side ( à la...

What is Character Dance? Character Dance is a unique subdivision of classical ballet, inspired by European national and folk dance...