15-year-old Arizona girl wows the ballet world

She is 15-years-old, and a dancer is living among us here in the valley. She's one that will likely go on to make history in the world of ballet.Her name is Gisele Bethea, and she's not on graceful and technically advanced in her dancing, she has a special quality that is very apparent when you see her perform. 12/11/14

[@dianenorman3209]

I love when good things happen to good people.

[@gretahassock8914]

Yes she's great but the Russians r better

[@bh29]

@@gretahassock8914 She's French; she'll be alright.

[@yichern2376]

yes

[@valleria483]

@@bh29 she is french?

[@holachristin7209]

​@@valleria483 Could be, since her name is Gisele, but first names aren't really that specific to countries these days. Her last name, Bethea was first used as a surname in the Scottish/English Borderlands in the medieval era. She's American, likely mixed European heritage.

[@fuckthenypost]

The teacher who told Giselle that she is talented.. is a kind of person we all need in life. A pusher.

[@tenniscourt5831]

Update: Giselle Bethea was with the American Ballet Theater. She only danced in the Corps. She was injured and also left to get married. She was expecting a baby last I read. Mormons, go figure.

[@mimicutler1431]

Yes, she seems to want to move on with her life, which I respect.

[@naturebound2901]

Thanks for that! I was wondering because I looked up her name in the ABT company dancers profiles and she was not listed. But at some point she had danced there.

[@Mezzie1957]

Giselle bethea

[@tomscoldfriedchicken]

This girl is seriously amazing but it bugs me how they keep using the word perfect/perfection. Nobody has that and it can kind of be a touchy subject so for her teacher and this anchor to affirm her "perfection" kind of unsettles me. But still, amazing story, amazing dancer, amazing girl.

[@Ariadne7710]

She is undoubtedly very good but if she really wants to be viewed as exceptional she should take part in the Prix de Lausanne which is the recognised number 1 competition in the world for ballet dancers of her age and see how she does at that. Most of the top ballet dancers of her age take part in that so she will see how she compares with the rest of the world. Not just in Arizona or even the USA. And if she is up to that standard one of the top Ballet companies will offer her a place.

[@kimhaughton3771]

Her every move is perfection! She seems to have an awareness of every body part at once! And you can tell by her face that she finds joy in it! I pray that will always be the case for her! Stay grounded in your family support system and do not let the world tell you who you are. So very inspiring!!!❤

[@irenawilson1572]

She was with abt but left after a year. Not sure if she’s still dancing.

[@sapphire22011]

She teminds me of Sophia Lucia who was very advanced at this age and seemed to have a great future in ballet also but something happened and she quit. Not sure was it burnout, changes in body with puberty or eating disorder I suspect maybe of combo of all 3. Think she's doing choreography now, training youngsters. 15 is very young and puberty is often artificially delayed at thus age across many sports with heavily restricted starvation diets, overtraining and puberty blockers. Then at around 17, they are done when puberty can be held back no longer and then flaws show up in the techniques they learnt at a young age which are dependent on extremely low body weight and altered centre of gravity. A lot of girls then either cannot relearn techniques adapted to the older body and/or coaches simply don't want to bother going through this process with then, and they simply drop them and move on to the next younger, better model/phenom. Hope that doesn't happen here, but the road to stardom is littered with 15/16/17 year old destroyed by injuries, puberty, eating disorders etc etc. Just ask Eteri Tuberidze in figure skating

[@kimhaughton3771]

@@sapphire22011 You bring up excellent points that hadn't even occurred to me. Thank you. There seems to be a darker side that most people, including myself, are ignorant of.

[@gwenyffyr]

My younger sister was like Gisselle. Had it not been for a congenital hip problem which sidelined her at 16, she would have been in NYBT also. She had so much expression and feeling in her technique that people cried when she danced The Dying Swan at age 14!

[@nancychiraki]

"A dancing phenom is leaving amongs us right now" calm down she is a dancer not a freaking monster

[@lordcat1958]

Hahaha among us

[@lordcat1958]

Sus

[@GetJazzyy]

Why does this always have to turn into people from other countries being rude to one another? I think it's ignorant to stereotype every American or European, or any race or culture for that matter. Yes Russian's are known for classical ballet because they are extraordinary. This girl obviously has a gift. Just because she is not a certain ethnic background does not mean she is any less of a dancer. Can we all just accept one another instead of playing the "we're better than you" card? I'm only 19 and it saddens me to see such hateful comments. Have a nice day.

[@amye.6808]

I agree

[@evadoubravska5133]

Jasmine It's not about the race or culture. It's about the fact that in Russia they are still very willing to torture their kids to get results. They have the best schools and teachers, they are picking their ballet dancers in very early age and they have more to pick from. And waking up at 4 am for dance class and being beaten up and starved is quite common routine for girls there. I think that if anybody tried to apply Russian teaching techniques in western society social services would be called.

[@GetJazzyy]

This is all very true. It's just the simple fact that people need to stop trying to degrade others because another person is better than them in something. There is always someone who is going to be better than another person but I think that even though this is true people need to let others shine for a couple minutes before they step in with someone who is better than them. Then the cycle continues.

[@griffinzoo]

Jasmine I totally agree with you but Russians were/are great dancers because for over a hundred years they've had government money to fund the top schools, not because the physical bodies of Russians are any better than anyone else's on the planet.. These schools could pick and choose what kids they wanted to accept. When you can be that choosy because tons of kids are clamoring to get in and money is not such an issue then any genetic mutant of a body can be molded by these schools to be top dancers. But one can not discount the training of Paris Opera Ballet dancers, the Royal Ballet School, China, Stuttgart and even here in the US. Yeah, we Americans finally caught up.

[@Gabreya]

Jasmine Well said!

[@carolinekahuena1911]

Most people aren’t able to tell how talented she is because they don’t really know what ballet is supposed to look like-the main thing I see with her is not only her shape and proportions, but she has complete awareness through her entire body. Some dancers you can tell are paying particular attention to their feet while forgetting their hands/port de bras , but she articulated through the fingertips and straight down into her toes, and you can see that. Not sure if this helps anyone who doesn’t get it.

[@ramywiles]

Holy shit, you guys in the comments are negative. I understand that the world of ballet is competitive, but does she have to be the single best fifteen-year-old dancer alive to deserve praise? It might not be the same where you live, but where I'm from, news spots like this on talented local kids are common. It's a local pride thing, like "look, we have this talented young athlete (... dancer) who comes from our town, yay for her and for us". If one guy says that she's the best in the world, of COURSE they're going to capitalize on that, whether or not it's actually true. It's not Phoenix trying to put itself on the map (globally; most people in the US recognize Phoenix) by saying that it is the home of the single best ballet dancer who ever lived, no exceptions. Nobody is saying that. Also, I don't care if being skinny is important -- the weight comments are completely out of line.

[@easytoslip]

I didn't read any other comment than this, the top comment but I gave it a thumbs up.

[@janeriebe7797]

ramywiles If she has a contract waiting for her at ABT....she is a prodigy and time will tell.

[@Take2AwesomeAcrobatsGymnasts]

Agreed

[@Jayjen35]

Jane Riebe She doesn't have a contract to join the corps. She has an offer for an apprenticeship. Very good, but not tremendously remarkable.

[@janeriebe7797]

Hey, everyone has to start somewhere!

[@marthabakry7353]

Gisele Bethea is now a wife, mother, and retired ABT dancer - meanwhile, Wozniak continues to turn out high quality young dancers at his school in Arizona.

[@edithchin]

I don't get why there is so much hate, honestly so what if there were better? Can't you just let it go, she after all is really technically advanced. I don't get why there is so much hate...she doesn't deserve it...she is just doing what she likes...

[@51Saffron]

+Edith Chin I agree.

[@robsmith3839]

+Edith Chin Jealousy and envy are all some people are capable of feeling when confronted with someone like Ms Bethea. With her talent and her attitude, the sky's the limit (so work on those leaps, Gisele!). If she can just stay injury free (!!!!!) we'll be enjoying her for many years to come.

[@biff5664]

Why are there so many negative assholes? Why can't people be happy for other's success and hard work? She seems very sweet and clearly a gracious dancer... :|

[@georgefrank7405]

+Elizabeth Morley Ikr? So many sourly jealous human beings.

[@tarmach523]

I think they are jealous of the hard work, dedication, and discipline it takes to train for hours on end every day, that they don't have the will to do anything with their lives, or feel like failures in their own lives. I work out almost daily, but for no more than one hour per day, but I'm not jealous of this girl that I don't, and can truthfully admit that I don't have the desire to do what she does, and work to improve other areas of my life. People need to give credit where credit is due, that this girl works freaking hard, and to keep their own issues to themselves, and work at bettering themselves.

[@frenchgirl90210]

I haven't seen any negative comments about her. She is clearly great and she looks amazing (from the little I saw here). But the reporting and the journalism is poor in this. To say she is the 'best in the world' is insulting to the dozen of other talented dancers who are just as young, just as beautiful (in different ways) and just as willing to sacrifice family life. I don't think they're disparaging HER talents; they're simply stating that it's a little inward looking to consider one of their own to be 'the best', as opposed to 'one of the best' (coming from abroad, that remark really grates).

[@hamstershawn5371]

69 loves!! 😂😂😂😂😂✌🏼️

[@kamisa7362]

Carole B Her dance teacher said she was the best in the world of her age group. People keep wanting to blame the journalist when the teacher said it. He'd know more than anyone in the comments.

[@valleria483]

It's so upsetting she didn't succeed after all... she was so amazing

[@austinzhang1754]

Yeah very sad that she just kind of disappeared into the Corps at ABT. Even more sad that she just quit altogether a few years later.

[@lucyryder96]

I think she’s a med student now, the corps pay at ABT wouldn’t have been great anyway lol

[@bethanybouley2990]

She became mormon and quit ballet....such a waste.

[@irenawilson1572]

@@lucyryder96I think you are thinking of Miko

[@irenawilson1572]

@@austinzhang1754they all start in the corps. She chose to leave after a year.

[@artsylovelylady]

There are lots of talented kids out there but no one can deny that this girl has some serious, serious talent. Everything she moves from her fingertips to her toes are perfection. And her posture? It's like she doesn't even have to think about it. She's great. You just have to admit it. Michael Jackson was a kid phenom in pop music. Jackie Evancho was a kid phenom in classical music. And now we have Gisele Bethea, the ballerina phenom.

[@Christina_320]

Beautiful, what a gift. I love how they say, “she’s only 15” yea that’s how old ballerinas are when they start auditioning for Grand Prix into companies. Haha. Bravo! 👏🏼

[@mckaysix8543]

What's with the hate? Why can't we just keep encouraging her? I get there are other talented kids as well but why are ppl hating on her it's not kind

[@dt4108]

Katherine Hibbard and because of that she doesn’t deserve appreciation?!? This girl clearly poured her sweat too so wtf are you talking about? Just because other people deserve recognition doesn’t mean that the girl who got it didn’t deserve it and didn’t work for it. She earned every single moment of recognition they gave her and just because you or other people are jealous doesn’t mean you need to be rude and hateful and point out there’s “better”. There is always someone better. No need to point it out cause it’s actually rude. Either give her recognition or don’t say anything at all

[@liannesings7733]

@Katherine Hibbard don't be jelly! pathetic. are you jelly she's working hard and you're sitting your fatass behind your laptop and not doing anything to push yourself? I guess so

[@saramai4079]

“The ones that make those ballet pointe shoes by hand." NO KIDDIIIINNNGGG

[@Lizzygotstyle]

Lol IKR!!! Btw lady on the news there's other pointe shoes companies other than grishko!!! I mean all the points should are made by hand lol

[@Olivekaty]

+lizzy gotstyle ikr

[@gabrielleurbina7020]

Ignorance.... Tsk tsk tsk

[@eleo_b]

Keep in mind, most viewers at home probably don't know Grishko, or that point shoes are made by hand. The general public knows nothing about ballet.

[@saramai4079]

Queensofprep870 how so?

[@heykyu5892]

Russians don't need private Teachers and lessons. They have discipline since young and even though some are poor, they'd dedicate their lives to it. So there really isn't the "best" or "perfect" Dancer in the world, competitions don't define how well you are, dedication does. Gisele is a great Dancer but to me, everyone is a great Dancer within, with much dedication, determination and passion.

[@Jayjen35]

Although the Russians don't go out and hunt down then spend enormous amounts of money for private coaching, while in school if a particular student captures a teacher's eye, with talent or drive, usually that teacher spends time coaching that student and of course giving them special attention during class. In Russia successful ballet dancers often have teachers that they have life long relationships with that supported and coached them from school to stage.

[@theorelover6019]

I'm in America and consider myself phenomenally lucky, considering the ballet training I've had thus far. Russia is not the only country with awesome ballerinas ballet dancers, take Misty Copeland. She's American and is internationally renowned to be a phenomenal ballerina. Even though I am pretty poor by American standards, I make myself the best dancer I can be by stretching every day, eating, sleeping, and breathing dance, and paying close attention in class.

[@user-ht4ii1wi6u]

+president comacho In russia, they cheat

[@theorelover6019]

+Lauren Goodwin What the heck? Russians have different training standards. They don't "cheat" as you say.

[@user-ht4ii1wi6u]

+TheOreLover If you've been paying attention to the knews you'd know about the multi generation steroid scandle

[@cecilleabreu]

keep in mind she was only 15 years old and most principal dancers are like 20 so shes really really good for her age and she is so beautiful.

[@triniroma4957]

Why does Arizona have such great dancers...

[@JennalynnFung]

They have really competitive academies. My friend went to TDA (Arizona Dance Academy) and told me how much they practice and the amount of competitions they have. I'm just not sure that Arizona has the greatest amount of exceptional dancers; not my field of expertise. c;

[@amelia5933]

Capitano Americo psssh I live In australia and it's crazy hot 😂 you can

[@ohlouda954]

she's good but I saw some pretty good ballet dancers from Russia.

[@kittysha5003]

***** "freedom and individual personality." Okay, many Russian ballerinas have different personalities and traits that define them. Looking at the variety of Russian Ballet we can't really say they are all the same. Yes, same training, learned skills and body type. I guess that's where the "cookie-cutter" comment comes from, but the skills are what all the dancers need to perfect and the body type can't take the individual personality away. I think this girl is good however the instructor is exaggerating by calling her the current best 15 year old dancer.

[@janeriebe7797]

Kitty sha and you know this because???

[@kittysha5003]

Jane Riebe I don't know what you mean but if you are talking about my comment on they not being exactly the same as Gabriel said, then you just have look at their dancing. I mean no one can come here and say Osipova is a replica of Zakharova. That's just one big example.

[@janeriebe7797]

I totally agree with you! Sorry if my post confused you!:)

[@simplynay232]

oh louda huh? You do realize she competes in Russia and Moscow against those very dancers and beats them... i think that first place spot is what makes her the best.

[@Mezzie1957]

She is the total package. She has the perfect ballet body, small shoulders, beautiful, long neck, graceful arms very expressive. She feels the music you can see that and she’s technically excellent.

[@jemmaproductions5220]

She is SOOO amazing!!! She is going to make it big! I think it's so awesome (and slightly ironic) that her name is Gisele!

[@kenzielarsen1771]

Tiler Peck, who has been a Principal Dancer for the New York City Ballet, got into the NYC Ballet at age 15, has conquered Classical Ballet, as well as Ballenchine Technique,

[@kenzielarsen1771]

The Ballenchine Technique is faster, harder, bigger, unique, & difficult. Tiler Peck is a Star on the stage. If you wish to see a true prodigy, check her out.

[@lorrainemccormick113]

Kenzie Larsen o

[@christar9527]

From the bit of Tiler Peck I’ve seen she doesn’t come close to Gisele. She seems kind of sloppy.

[@kenzielarsen1771]

@@christar9527 What’s your background in Classical ballet? What do you know about good technique? I think your lips are sloppy.

[@Allieclaire26]

there is without a doubt more girls and/or boys who can dance just as well as her, hell maybe even better, and you can argue all you want about it, but no one can deny that she's incredibly talented, and dances beautifully.

[@briannabolton9534]

Her arch is beautiful!

[@ChezFeroce]

I don't think this clip truly showcased what she's capable of... I didn't see anything that showed "unique" etc

[@jazzybear12151]

^^ wouldnt be talking there sweetheart... boys dont dance en *pointe (learn to spell, i wouldnt be calling other people stupid there..) not normally. sometimes in a production i have heard that some bous will do a dance en pointe.

[@esmeralda.mxrtinez5490]

+Carolina Vasconcelos , why say anything

[@ChezFeroce]

Brett_T7276 7276 No I know ballet fairly well. Please don't talk just to make a comment. Have intention, ffs.

[@romeoromeo3958]

You can't see that she is actually really talented and everything that she is doing is perfect beacuse you're not a ballet dancer like me and for you it's obvious that she should do what she does. Stop trying to think you know anything about ballet cause you really don't.

[@venusperalta4695]

+Carolina Vasconcelos not really

[@oldaccount8115]

I’m getting my first pair of pointe shoes next week I trained since I was 2!! I’m so happy and excited!!!!

[@tye-hee3985]

I dance as a student for ABT which is q huge honor so good luck to her.

[@oldgypsytap]

She is a phenom. Anyone with the perfection of body, technique and dedication is destined to be a star. To criticize a young girl with such gifts is either ignorant of what is actually required for ballet greatness or simply jealous. I can't wait to see her in the professional setting.

[@MrQbenDanny]

BRAVO Gisele!!!!Bravissimo! You are unique and give familiar choreography new meaning. It's a Gift, and the world will welcome you with open arms. Tell Kevin Mckenzie you would love to be part of the ABT family as long as Your fabulous teacher Wozniacki joins the company too! At least he should have first refusal!

[@krazzysu]

She will be the best in the world. Her technical abilities are second to none I have ever seen in my years of observation. Yes, I studied ballet. And there are many dancers who call themselves good who sickle, wobble or go over the box so much it makes me wonder how they can dance without breaking their ankles. It's unbelievable. You go girl. You go be the best in the entire globe. I'm rooting for you. ^^V

[@niamhfaulkner6222]

To me she looks like a normal really good dancer

[@betzymartinez3364]

That's true but it's because she makes everything look super easy beacause she's so good

[@tlea56]

I agree. I see nothing special

[@JayJay-xw7bh]

No it is not. The school does but not the actual ballet company...going straight into the ABT without going to their school and starting at the bottom and working your way up is very rare. Basically she'd be jumping straight into performances. In school you work for the principal spots in hopes of getting a contract...she has one waiting for her...and just the fact that they will hold a spot for her is extraordinary! If you turn down a contract, you lose the offer, usually for good.

[@IISuperLove]

she dont move regular.

[@lexik4603]

It's the fact that she's only 15 and receiving offers from companies to do this full time. Not only that, these companies are willing to wait for her.

[@bananaanna4412]

She looks like she's floating, it's so graceful and beautiful!!🙂🌸 omg!

[@oohsoolovelay]

Have they never heard of CPYB??? Actually ABT does give contracts to 15 yr olds. She is very good, but not the best in the world for her age... I've seen younger girls that were just as good... News productions... Smh..

[@yanniedlee]

Ikr? Think about the kids in Russia...

[@EmiiLarks]

I hate all these comments talking about how she's not that amazing etc. What's so wrong with American TV celebrating an American trained dancer? When my small hometown had a talented dancer (who maybe wasn't perfect etc. but who placed high in YAGP), our newspapers had articles about her. And did they say "Hey those russian dancers train just as much and are better, they don't pay for privates etc." NO. We celebrated our own. Sure those Russians are great or others are more talented. But seriously let this beautiful girl have her moment.

[@Jen-jo5qu]

So incredibly graceful. Such a gifted artist!

[@YariRBDFan]

Man some of you commenters are assholes. She is talented. Why do you feel the need to put her down? Give credit where its due. She is dedicated, she is talented, and she has her life put together. Who cares that YOU think she isn't the best in the world? Maybe she isn't but she sure as hell can dance. If her teacher thinks she is great and people want her to dance for their companies that's wonderful!!! Why the hate?

[@jessicalong6253]

her arches are so huge!! she must go through pointe shoes so quickly expecially with all the training and performances

[@lovescats6209]

Her technique is just splendid and I'm a dancer too so for her to be this good makes me want to do better as a dancer to my greatest potential. Her Pointe work is so graceful and so smooth. That is my goal as a Pointe dancer

[@angelabrown-bessau4127]

Miko Fogarty was a ballet prodigy at 10 years old! Michaela DePrince as well. All of these young dancers are talented and extremely gifted, but Gisele Bethea is not the "best in the world." There is actually room enough for more than one, and this coverage is literally worshiping her and magnifying her skills, when others have the same amount of skill, if not more. Not being a hater either, just saying the truth.

[@googoogagazaza]

+Angela Brown-Bessau I agree with you too. No hate.

[@happyperson7090]

yes Angela is right. This girl has a talent, but her talent is not unique.

[@jewelmarkess]

Yes. I am not an expert, just love ballet, but I think people here should also watch the videos of Vaganova students - Xenia Zhiganshina (she is at Bolshoi now, but there are videos of her when she was young), Asya Bogdashkina, Lada Sartakova, Polina Konogray, etc. In general, just videos from Vaganova school end of the year concerts from their 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th year students (1st year - 10-11 in September, 11-12 - May, 2nd year - 11-12 in September, 12-13 at the end, etc.). People think that all ballet students go to competitions. I believe most of those who are already in prestigious schools don't need to.

[@charlize841]

It may not be hate, but it isn't love either. It was never said she was best in the world, what was said, by her teacher, she was best for her age. Clearly, if the ABT is offering her a contract at 14, they see a potential, and a level of expertise, you seem to want to discredit. I see no justification for your post.

[@jewelmarkess]

***** ABT normally takes them at 18, ABT Studio which trains dacers is 16-20, I believe, and, no, their career isn't over at 23-26, more like late 30s - early 40s, but say Stella Abrera is 38, and she was promoted to principal last year. Check the age of ABT principals, they are all older than 23-26. So yes, getting a contract at 14 is a remarkable achievement.

[@hamlettelmah441]

people are missing the point here, she is 15 and has the work ethic of a person that is willing to put in the time and heart into her craft, she already knows what she wants to be etc.. your avg 15 yr old girl is on her cellphone 15+ hrs a day chatting with other friends, they will talk about everything from A-Z except their future and what they want to do when they get out of school, they don't have plans or dreams and the ones that do are being pulled away to the side by the ones that have nothing going for them. Come on man, the world is her Oyster and it's up to her to find it's pearls. She is gonna go far in life if she just keeps up with everything that she has been doing up to this point, good for her a bright beautiful young lady with talent. This is good for other girls to maybe find some inspiration and drive to go and see if they too have the "it" in Ballet or anything else. The problem with these kids are they are not being challenged in a way that it would light a fire under their ass for them to get up and do something positive other that becoming the tweet & txt champions

[@isabellethier9454]

my life flashed before my eyes when the reporter said, "American Ballet COMPANY" like lets get our research done before the nightly news

[@XiadiZhai]

ugh those arches!

[@mathildewesendonck7225]

„She is very likely to make history in the world of ballet“ Oh come on. Why the pressure? Can’t they just say she is extremely talented and has great potential? So much can happen!

[@mathildewesendonck7225]

Edit: I just realized that the video is 8 years old 🙈 And someone commented that she is not dancing anymore. That’s what I meant- so much can happen, and I don’t see the point in setting the bar so high

[@TheMirageQuest]

Yes it just goes to show worldly success doesn’t work that way…

[@K0feeKrawl]

I love that KZbin recommended Thai video to me after so many years now that I’m watching Eva Ny’s videos of the dance company. I did a double take, like is that Slawek? 😂

[@lisamaier9984]

SO TALENTED. May you go beyond your dreams....Simply Beautiful!

[@kkray3091]

yes she has beautiful technique and lines but there are so many other beautiful ballet dancers out there

[@ClairaudienceGirl]

she started when she was 11! First, Misty Copeland now her! You can start at any age!

[@maddisondevine3730]

No it said she realised her talent at 11 didn't it?

[@dcmakeupaddicteilah]

+Maddy Devine ya

[@thesims9631]

no, she stared ballet at 4 years old, but she get seriuosly at age of 11.

[@cat56789]

Misty Started at 13

[@PickleAllergy]

beautiful talented young lady, may she always be as kind hearted as she is now

[@leslieschott754]

Wow, I’m getting goosebumps listening to this! I’ve always been in awe of the grace & strength of ballet! Have had two of them on each side of family but was short lived. I always wanted to do tap, myself! 😅

[@amberann7784]

Man I wish that was me. I'm a 16 year old ballet dancer in Arizona. Hopefully I'll get into a ballet company in college.

[@mjrltna]

Geez, people. Stop the bickering, hating, and comparisons. Grow-up! How about encouraging these youth so that one day they may- with your support- help to encourage and inspire other children. Stand. But stand in solidarity and purpose not in unity to teardown these kids. Support them in whatever they choose to do- pickle picker, writer, ditch-digger, scientist, ballet dancer... Support them unconditionally and across nations & borders!

[@izzyanalise5968]

Why are BEAUTIFUL, AWESOME dancers from Arizona. Kalani , Brynn , Giselle, and then we have me an 😵 dancer

[@i_love_rescue_animals]

Wow. Just WOW!! This girl is obviously genetically gifted, but her dancing comes from hours and hours and hours of HARD WORK. And I'm no expert (at all) in ballet - but look at her feet! I think (in my uneducated opinion) for toe point and foot position is exceptional - not to mention just everything else. Good for her to stay at home a little longer. I think that's smart. 🙌🏽 ❤

[@tigereyes5]

Poor girl. This report reminds me of the parent that brags about their child's acting skills because they played sheep number four in the Nativity play. It's like they were so excited to have her come to Arizona that all professional journalism dropped and it became more like subjective excitement. It would have been much better if he reporter had just stuck to the facts. Not to say that this girl isn't good because she is. And there is evidence in this video that she has caught the attention of the professional world. But the way they were going on about her I expected to be so impressed that i'd pass out. But i'm very much stable. I think they overhyped her and that's why people are just like "meh". I mean I haven't even heard a report talking about Sylvie Guillem or even Rudy like this! But well done girl for doing well. You have talent and you work hard so good luck in going far.

[@xinyulok6328]

I'm 15 and I learn ballet. I'm in Grade 6 now and my teacher has introduced pointe shoes to us months ago but we're still not working on it because we still have our Grade 6 exam to pass. I can't do full splits let alone oversplit but I really wish to perform on stage and further my dancing :)

[@alexisdanille4675]

Ballet is a HUGE part of my life

[@jilleenbarrett9356]

This girl is an inspiration. I'm 14 years old and I am working en pointe and working for my split. Gisele is one of my top role models.

[@elifsusloly7440]

In my opinion, Miko Fogerty is the best dancer

[@laurapaccio1479]

I meant the girl in the video, Miko is amazing ;-)

[@kialautnerlovelautne]

Me too!

[@1979cl1]

ButterflyDoll Thats just your opinion, Giselle already has her future in the bag and she'll be good as you think.

[@mitzurien]

True. She was already amazing at the age of 12 so Giselle is just like any other ballerina

[@elifsusloly7440]

Ok. That's your opinion.

[@iluvdance00]

Omg it's Gisele! Lovely feet, technique, and much more. She's a very promising dancer that I'm sure we're all excited to see doing big things in the future!

[@spiralsun1]

Just started crying watching this and I don’t even know why. Love love love ballet!!!❤❤❤❤❤

[@cutiepie2180]

Whether or not Gisele is THE BEST 15 year old ballerina in the world, she is EXTREMELY talented. All these negative comments are pathetic, I mean this girl trains at the very least 30 hours a week, and dances absolutely beautifully. I don't think anyone her has the right to say she isn't the best until they can do everything she can and do it better. Don't just write, think. Imagine you worked your entire short life to do something, you get praised on it by a few but then you just get people commenting negative and negative comment. Come on, people. Look at the truth, she's incredibly talented and if she's the best in the world, GREAT, if she isn't the very best, still GREAT!

[@SushiIslife111]

if you know really well how to dance ballet and the techniques then you will understand that she is extraodinary 💜

[@trishakatz9349]

It’s so sad to me that she doesn’t dance anymore!

[@marygoodson4920]

What happened? Injury? Burnout?

[@laralilyLaraMaljevac]

​@@marygoodson4920 she had a baby

[@CordsZ]

@@marygoodson4920She injured her foot really badly. She left ABT and is now married with a baby and is in medical school, so she’s doing very well!

[@whitneyhoustonstan2472]

Gosh she's so talented and blessed to have this gift

[@apekshatamane5732]

This is amazing....ballet requires....coordination of mind and soul this girl has achieved excellence at early age

[@stephencavalier9746]

"You know you've made in in sports when you have shoe sponsorship" hahaha

[@ElaAusDemTal]

Still waiting for that "Special Quality"!

[@brendajameson5093]

she's from Arizona

[@harleyquinn9682]

And?

[@vitalieskenazi9901]

Organizge chargers

[@liannesings7733]

you don't dance so don't judge. ballet is unique cuz all dancers have their own things to offer to the companies

[@willychrispin1093]

wow...just...wow! Her movements are so fluid

[@spfdff]

Geeeez chill people! The instructor said she's "the best 15 yr old in the world". She's ahead of others her age. To take nothing away from her... Some people are just gifted to do certain things... The right exposure to certain things and support... Plus being physically endowed with the right attributes. It's easier for her than others her age... She's in love with what she does.. For others it's hard work, for her it's just as much effort... But when you're in love with something you enjoy, you embrace the process not just the performance.

[@lindaackerman4412]

lovely so very lovely

[@Jayjen35]

OK, I've just seen some competition video of her, and I gotta say this news story doesn't do her any favors on MANY levels. She's actually much better than the video here shows. Good technique, articulation, control, and her feet are just insane. But she has more than that. An ability to deliver an actual fleshed out performance (though admittedly immature) at this stage is pretty impressive. Not something you see everyday. And she is able to do it fairly consistently. Maybe not quite the best in the world, but a career most certainly worth keeping an eye on. It'll be interesting to see how her dancing develops.

[@nante5735]

I don't understand the perfection of ballet. For me all professional ballerinas are good and stunning.

[@phyllismay4384]

She's so graceful. Love that Kari Lake presented the story.

[@wearethemisfitss]

nah man. russian ballet dancers are the top

[@calliejet4499]

wearethemisfitss Then why did she beat a bunch of them when she competed in Moscow?

[@wearethemisfitss]

Callie Jet calling her a 'phenomenon' was exaggerating way too much. there are other young american dancers that are equally as good or even better than her. however, it is proven that Russian dancers are better

[@calliejet4499]

wearethemisfitss Well clearly they weren't since she beat them lol

[@garysnyder6390]

Callie Jet the dancers in the competition are not the entire Russian ballet community idoit, those dancers don't represent other ballerinas who may think that competitions are a waste of time or whatever and don't think Russians aren't better just because Gisele only beat the ones in the competition, there are more Russian dancers........

[@SierraBdawnable]

Callie Jet No, she's not. A lot of the best dancers at the top schools in Russia don't compete.

[@AriaColeccionistaDeCanciones]

It's always the rich that can have money for private teachers for school and ballet. I think so many other dancers just go to school so that's why they aren't at her level. So not so impressed. People with money always have it good. Her Russian teacher must be paid well.

[@martinenotmartini9935]

Masshiroi Actually the situation I'm in :( To improve I'd need more classes but we only have the money for one class (60 min) per week and that's with at least ten other girls so the teacher is always trying to keep her bearings. You absolutely have a point here.

[@shadelings]

Masshiroi Which is why I have so much respect for Misty Copeland, whose immense talent was discovered by professional ballet teachers who were offering their skills pro bono at her local Boys and Girls club, and were wise enough to recognize a diamond in their midst. That's the stuff of legend. Not to take anything away from Gisele, whom I'm sure is very talented but her story doesn't even compare.

[@norachrisler7259]

Masshiroi That is so true. Ballet or any type of dance is expensive, especially if you want to do it professionally. Notice how these little girls in the dance industry who are considered "the best" live in big houses, have parents who drive expensive cars, and have the most expensive outfits. You definitely need to have money in order to dance. It would be nice if there was more special programs for underprivileged children who can learn to dance. Think of all the children who have as much or more talent than this girl, but are unable to learn how to dance due to financial reasons.

[@trash8898]

Same. I'd be superstar if my parents would be rich. Like I'd get singing, dancing, acting lessons and all that shit

[@ozlem7932]

+Masshiroi I think it has more to do with hard work. When I was younger and when my family didn't have the wealth they did now (they're both retired now, and in their 50s and 70s), I was about 9 years old in America and I would help around the studio for 2 hours even when I didn't have a ballet lesson that day. Now, we are a lot more better off, and in another country, so we are able to afford a prestigious school nearby where I live. Don't give up if its what you want. :)

[@peaceXloveXgrier]

Congratulations Gisele!! I hope I can see you perform one day!!!

[@AmusedChild]

She was so wise to delay performing professionally. It's best not to rush it.

[@aidaveronicagonzalezescala5061]

Yo conozco todos los sacrificios que ser una bailarina de ballet implica. Sé lo difícil que es ser constante, disciplinado, fuerte, valiente... También sé que existen personas que nacen con el maravilloso regalo de la elegancia, sofisticación, distinción, gracia, carisma... Y aprecio a las personas que trabajan por obtener y mejorar todas estas cualidades (y también claro, las aptitudes y habilidades físicas propias de un bailarín de ballet) Sin embargo, en esta noticia, en este corto segmento, no logro apreciar el talento, o incluso virtuosismo de esta chica. En mi humilde opinión, necesitas mucho más que un segmento en Fox para ser la "mejor y más joven bailarina del mundo" necesitas más que ser la más joven en la competencia en Moscú, y mucho más que contratos en distintas compañías de los EUA... Repito, conozco y aprecio el trabajo de TODAS las bailarinas de ballet. Repito, no le quito méritos a esta chica. Repito, es MI HUMILDE OPINIÓN. Y concluyo, la danza es un arte -y tal como la pintura, la música, la literatura, la arquitectura, el teatro, e incluso la política- es algo que siempre desata mucha polémica, es de mera apreciación, y depende de quién y en qué condiciones sea observado... Podría seguir intentando explicar por qué es una buena bailarina, o por qué no, pero como ya dije: Arte de apreciación y perceptibilidad, y MUCHA POLÉMICA...

[@5KAT]

She's has solid technique and certainly potential, but she is no Sylvie Guillem by any stretch of the imagination. We'll see what her physique is in five years and if she is going to be prone to injury or weight issues.

[@kizzyshealingpraktijk]

Gisele should be aware of her talent and start organizing shows worldwide with her name on it. Good for her, wish her the best :)

[@mariasalgado1260]

"Wow!!! And Amazing!!!" Is correct. I see this girl with a very good future ahead of her as it has already started. Arizona young talented girl. Nice. Two thumbs up!! Wtg (way to go)

[@KevinFitzMauriceEverett]

Stay humble. Everything else is on track.

[@chocolatebunny5465]

I took dance for awhile but I don't get how anyone can compare good dancers and say some are better than others Like yeah she's very good but there's others too and I can't pick one or even a few myself

[@mori9593]

There is no such thing as "the best dancer" in the world, even if its just for the meantime until another rises up to take her spotlight. I'd say it's just the fact that she holds this much talent at such a young age that make people think she's the best. But then again, it's just age and talent! It has nothing to do with being the best. Sooner or later another one will pop up, then another, and another and another. It's just an endless line of making someone feel special while the others weep and keep trying their best to MAYBE one day be the next so called "best".

[@Ego-de4dt]

She's so pretty but she's dances seamlessly. Even i can see that she dances beautifully. Xo

[@olafurssonkyllian8153]

she has something that Kirov and Bolshoi ballet dancers don't have , about 10 extra pounds, but she lacks something that russian ballet dancers have,....actually a lot of things that russian ballet dancers have. The guy compared the ballet world to the olympic games ? he really did ! anyway the american ballet is far but i mean FAR from being the best in the world . The day the Kirov or the Bolshoi offer her a contract then Fox can brag

[@olafurssonkyllian8153]

WorldOfJess Thanks god finally one who understand what i say.

[@worldofjess7862]

olfursson kyllian Yep, cuz I was in the pro ballet world for years. I can spot those who have real potential, a real shot at a pro career. This girl's technique isn't awful, but it's not professional grade. You can kind fudge on the body, but only if your technique is extraordinary. People fail to realize that professional ballet is around 75% how you are built genetically. That is literally more than half the battle. This girl won't go anywhere. I can see her dancing with some small company somewhere in the US, but places like Boston, San Fran or ABT are out of the question for her.

[@MimisaysRAWR]

@WorldofJess she already has the perfect body though-very long legs/arms/neck, perfect turnout and insane feet. She already got the contract to ABT, she was just too young. What do you mean she won't make it??

[@worldofjess7862]

MimisaysRAWR Perfect? for ballet? um,no. She won't make it professionally, in a major company. "Too young", no such thing for a true talent. If ABT hasn't snatched her up by now, they won't.

[@olafurssonkyllian8153]

WorldOfJess damn right

[@cosmickitty9533]

I guess i didn't see how this is so incredible and rare...

[@cosmickitty9533]

Actually I watched some of her other videos. From this vid she seems pretty average but when you watch some of her solos you can see she is really very good.

[@kailah7188]

Very talented, beautiful costumes... Way to go!!!

[@lauraglen475]

Congrats to her!! she's now dancing with ABT👏👏

[@jennahopkins8189]

I mean there isn't much here to judge her by, however from what I did see - Ya she is good ...but the best in the world. I don't think so. There are some very talented young girls around the world that practice the way they are suppose to - countless hours per week. For an American at 15? sure she is probably very skilled - but not around the world.

[@hamstershawn5371]

Am I the only one who thinks she looks like Ava at used to be on dance moms??

[@susangoodman235]

she is exquisite. will love to watch her grow.

[@iriskoelewijn1609]

She is so amazing🙌🏻💕

[@p0lyxena]

bruh.... apparently she made it to abt, then got engaged and married at 19 and left... i think her husband/family are mormons or something. that’s too bad

[@meowool]

just a little thing at the end...I'm sure they make all pointe shoes by hand...because they have to cater for the individual's feet.

[@AvalonMorley]

Not all pointe shoes are made by hand, and certainly not all dancers (especially most students) get to have shoes made specifically for them, and catered to their feet. BUT, you are right that Grishko is not the only company that makes pointe shoes by hand. AND, I'm not certain that Grishko makes all their pointe shoes by hand. I wouldn't be surprised if, like Freeds, they have some made by hand and others made (or, at least, finished) in a more industrial fashion.

[@meowool]

AvalonMorley Yeah probably...I think that I was thinking more of the ones for professional dancers...ones for students would most likely be made more industrailly

[@annaclarke3053]

I will also add that for those teens and other folks who have priveleges and opportunities in life but waste them away!... then this young dancer is a fine example of someone who has cherished those opportunities...worked damn hard and hope she has a great career and uses her chance to develope more as an artiste!

[@JoCar229]

her point is arguably the best i've seen

[@francescadent8863]

It's really not and you spell it 'pointe'

[@JoCar229]

Francesca Dent Hence I used "arguably" and "pointe" is French; not speaking French.

[@xxJodelleFerlandxx]

+emily b. If you're talking about someone's toe point, it's point with no e. If you're talking about their pointe work, it's pointe with an e. There's a difference.