When am I ready to start pas de deux?

When is a dancer ready? According to Tim Storey, Head of Dance at the Victorian College of Arts Secondary School, pas de deux is an absolute joy to teach and to learn, but damage and injury can occur if the students are not physiologically ready or technically proficient. He believes there is no benefit to starting early and points out that that both teachers and dancers should exercise caution. “Don’t hurry when you think you are ready – wait a while,” he says.

Girls Pas de deux class for girls is an extension of their pointe and ballet classes. They need to be at an advanced standard of pointe work with a strong core and good control.

Boys Partnering work can be damaging for boys if their bodies are not ready, risking back and shoulder injuries. Storey advises a very cautious approach...

Read full article: http://www.danceaustralia.com.au/news/the-art-of-pas-de-deux2