edelweiss

IMO, no, this intensive ballet training isn't necessary to be a DCC. But ballet training is necessary to develop good technique (proper turnout, truly pointed feet, straight knees, strong core, etc.). It is very obvious which DCC have spent time developing their technique through ballet and which haven't.

I agree that Houston Ballet or Austin Ballet is where the teens who are looking for quality ballet summer intensives would aim for if they were interested in going to Texas. As for Joffrey Ballet, many here might not know that there is only one true Joffrey Ballet (as in serious ballet training like you think of when you think of the name "Joffrey"). That Joffrey is in Chicago. All of the other "Joffreys" that you hear about are not affiliated with the Chicago Joffrey. I don't remember the exact details, but there is some reason that the "other" Joffrey is allowed to use the name, but they are NOT the same at all as far as quality or training. The other Joffrey runs summer intensives in New York City and in many other locations around the country. Their focus is much less on ballet and much more on jazz, Broadway style, tap, etc. It is popular with competition dancers. They are also known to accept everyone to their summer intensives. Anyway, I just wanted to clarify that if VK is training at Joffrey Ballet in Dallas, she is NOT training at the Joffrey that most people think of when they hear the name.

My choices: ROTY- Kelcey or Lily (but I will be ok with ANYONE except VK!) VOTY- Bridget Pro Bowl- Heather

Yes. That’s her.

I definitely was shocked that Brittany wasn't one of her bridesmaids. It seemed like they were such close friends. There must be a good reason, but I was still very surprised.

Thank you! You are my hero!!

If there is a way to put a poster on ignore, I would love to know about it! I know that I have that option on other boards, but I am not sure if I can do it here. I definitely want to use that option if it is available!

I just wish that Lauren was in that picture. Still so sad that she had to retire. 😭

Yay! I see Brennan!

I'm not terribly surprised, but I feel badly for her. She seemed really sweet.

Noooo, not Lauren!! She is my current favorite! I am so sad!

I like Christina too!

Wow! I have to admire VK a bit for having the guts to audition for SYTYCD. She must have a lot of confidence to put herself out there like that, but she is absolutely delusional if she thinks that she is anywhere near the caliber of the dancers who make that show. She'll be lucky if she makes it past the first round.

It really is!

I am so happy for Lacey! I would have been so disappointed if they had given it to anyone else. I still think that she should have gotten it last year and Kashara could have been given it this year.