🩰 30 y/o ballet beginner creates a BALLET ACADEMY for adults who've been shamed their whole lives

[@LinuxGeeksRock]

It's really encouraging to hear of programs like yours that are specifically geared toward adult beginners and/or adults returning to ballet. I'm lucky that when I decided to take the plunge, at the ripe old age of 19, and start taking ballet lessons, my FIRST contact turned out to be the best possible teacher, studio, and staff. For anyone who lived in Dallas some years ago, fate pointed me to the Denise Brown School of Ballet; it was on Lovers Ln, near the historic Inwood (or Inwood Village?) theatre. When I started taking classes, I told Denise that ballet was my passion, my one true passion, but my parents had forbade me from taking it. Yes, forbade, like it was something horrible. My daughter, who was a baby at the time, would usually come with me, and she would stand in the viewing area, bounded by wooden railings so I could always see her. She would hold on to the rails and "do ballet" with us! She could plie, holding on to a rail, before she could independently walk! She had better splits than I did, better turnout, too. She officially started taking class at 3 and continued through college; now, as a mom herself, she occasionally takes a drop-in class here and there, and is still as enchanted as always by ballet. I, on the other hand, had to stop dancing a long time ago, due to illness and injuries, including multiple broken bones, like an ankle!, each of which required orthopedic surgery to insert hardware to fix. I still dream of going to class again...but it can't and won't happen, and I know that. So I live vicariously through all things ballet, from KZbin videos to books to movies. If you've never seen the iconic "The Turning Point" (1977), do yourself a big favor and watch it! I also create ballet- and dance-related designs which I sell on various products; take a look at my dance shop if you're interested! www.cafepress.com/shop/Dance_Dance_Dance

[@VeronicaViccora]

this is all so wonderful to hear! thanks so much for sharing!

[@LinuxGeeksRock]

@@VeronicaViccora You're welcome! It's such a joy to see the joy you're getting from ballet, and it reminds me of my determination as a late-starter myself. Keep it up!

[@savjridjf]

i love this idea so much! i danced from 2-10 then quit until i was 15 and joined my high schools dance program. i recently graduated and turned 18 and im trying to find places where i live that offer ballet classes for adults but there’s not many that actually teach you ballet and not just some barre fitness. i think the idea of creating an adult ballet SCHOOL is absolutely amazing and i wish you the bestest of luck with this idea, hopefully the industry is ready for this sort of a concept, and don’t just shut you down immediately! much love 🤍

[@fairyfarms]

i did ballet was i really little too! around 3-5. and i'm also 18 and looking for lessons.

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@savjridjf it’s so good to hear there are people out there actively looking to follow their hearts! You deserve it. When I lived on Long Island especially, I struggled with the same thing. But keep searching! The right class is out there for you!! 💕

[@Hellbender8574]

I'm not sure the issue with adult classes is all on the supply side of the industry. A main reason why the market is dominated by drop-in style classes is that there are not enough adults able or wanting to make the long term commitment to come to class on time 2-3 days a week consistently. Everyone has different work schedules, hobbies aren't a priority, students lose interest, etc. Programs have trouble filling the class up enough to be profitable. But if it can happen anywhere, NYC is the place because it has so many people who might be interested!

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@Hellbender8574 agreed that can definitely be an issue for studios, especially in places outside of the cities. In New York however, there’s a very thriving community of committed dancers who really can and do consistently make the time in our busy schedules and it’s beautiful to see!

[@Char._.starrrr]

I’m a plus sized girlie in nyc and I go to as many introductions to ballet classes as I can afford but I need an actual academy I know I’m never going to be a prima ballerina but I can learn something that is so beautiful and majestic and practice in a non judgement space

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@Char._.starrrr EXACTLY. Whether we ever become prima ballerinas or not isn’t the point(e), it’s just about following the passion and becoming the dancers WE were born to be. And EVERYONE deserves to practice in a welcoming environment. You’ve got this!

[@Char._.starrrr]

@@GorgDjdjd-wo4dy you can learn a new skill just for fun

[@xUniquelyInfinite]

My ballet teacher here in Sacramento California teaches adult ballet classes 6 days a week. She has "ballet from the beginning series" all the way to pointe classes. I have been learning from her since 2019. I am very lucky because there really aren't many people who teaches ballet from the absolute beginning for adults. My teacher watches everyone and gives corrections. It makes me so happy that you are bring that to NYC. Please keep going with this. It is very much needed.

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@xUniquelyInfinite WOW! What an incredible opportunity you have there in Sacramento! That sounds like such a gift to the adult ballet community. So happy for you, thank you for sharing that. If there are others in Sacramento looking for something like that, now they know it exists!

[@PaigeBartholomew]

You are VERY lucky to have your teacher! !!! Where I live, in Austin, Texas, we have the Ballet Austin company and they have a thriving academy full of adult workshops and classes. Still… It’s hard to find classes that teach increasing skills. They sort of jump all over the place. It’s really hard for most adults.

[@maringraves1571]

I am an hr away from Sac. Can you share the studio?

[@juliette3597]

Also so sorry to hear about your burns and I 100% hope you can create this. Other disciplines (martial arts, violin, etc) absolutely have curriculums for adult students and ballet just doesn't appreciate adults so that's literally the only difference.

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@juliette3597 the industry is slowly changing to be more welcoming of adults so I’m very excited about what the future will bring! There’s hope for us all yet 💕

[@Hellbender8574]

It comes down to marketing to get interested clients in the door, making the schedule accessible, and Delivering on the promise of quality class to keep the clients coming back. Repeat consistent clients is what makes a progressive curriculum class work.

[@MarshaNovak]

Veronica you are so real and great on camera. Adult Ballet Academy such a wonderful idea. Would love to support with my professional expertise- no cost to you

[@alicesimone3190]

I absolutely love this idea. I can’t wait to see where this goes!

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@alicesimone3190 thank you so much for that! I’m excited as well 😊

[@ongoingawakening4257]

It's actually smart. I hope you inspire people and make a lot of money.

[@SobrietyandSolace]

I’m 31 and going to first ballet class tomorrow. Creepy but helpful algorithm

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@SobrietyandSolace hahaha creepy but helpful is so real. GOOD LUCK, enjoy every second of it!!

[@wickeddance93]

If I didn’t live on the other side of the world I would love this!! I picked up ballet again this year after 14 years off…you were part of my inspiration! I love your passion and positive energy. Happy dancing!

[@jjessicaisabelle]

Yes! We need more focussed adult ballet beginner classes!

[@Orcadorka]

Hi Veronica! I Love your videos and your bright energy! I've been invested in your videos for a while and got so excited to hear your idea. Firstly, as someone with a lot of hyperextension myself, here’s a useful tip that might potentially help your situation in case you have not heard this yet. Make sure you’re not leaning too far back on your heels. It can be hard to remind yourself not to sink back into that knee but if you make sure your weight is shifted upwards and forwards and onto the balls of your feet, it should force many of the correct muscles to be activated. This, making sure your pelvis is neutral (or as my teacher likes to say, 'the fish bowl isn't spilling'), and making sure your turnout is engaged should ensure a safer first position. Also thought I might share my own experience in case this might help you in your journey with adult ballet academy. I’m from New Zealand, and I study ballet at an academy that was originally created just for adult ballet, but now it also teaches seperate classes for children, teens, and seniors. They have classes starting from absolute beginner, then progress through levels 1-6 until you get to intermediate then advanced, as well as various pointe levels. On top of that you have options for open classes or syllabus classes, and many types of strength and conditioning classes. Usually we register for a class for the full semester, but drop-ins for those who want flexibility are available. They usually keep the classes on the same day at the same time each term and each year so that you don’t have to keep moving around your life for ballet each time the class has graduated to the next level, and that means you can progress along with the friends you’ve made too. Our teachers are so passionate and are incredibly knowledgable and make sure we understand our bodies and the moves we are trying to execute well. We’re able to take exams and even perform in an annual show on a stage with costumes and everything. We also run summer intensives and workshops throughout the year. And on occasion we’re able to be approached with opportunities outside the classroom too! I recently got to be a dance extra in a tv show. We’ve even added classes for those who want to study jazz or contemporary. We’ve now gotten so big we’ve had to expand to other buildings outside our home studio! I cannot stress enough how revolutionary the idea was to me that an atmosphere could exist in which adults (regardless of age, experience, or size) can come and learn and progress in dance and get the same levels of options, opportunity, and respect that a youth dance academy would. I can’t begin to describe how much this academy means to me, and the community we've cultivated is so warm and welcoming. The most important take away from this rant is that it IS possible for spaces to exist in which an adult ballet academy, or one inclusive for all ages, to exist and flourish, and I really hope more like it continue to be created around the world. I wish all the best in your adventure!

[@VeronicaViccora]

Omg this sounds FANTASTIC! Not only is this so inspiring for me but for so many other people to know that there are REAL opportunities out there for people of all ages and talent levels. Also, thank you so much for this tip! This is only something I just figured out and your explanation was very reaffirming and helpful, thanks a million! I'm so grateful to people like you who are really helping me improve my technique!

[@EmL-kg5gn]

Omg this is so cool!!! That sounds like such a nice place to learn 🥰

[@josejimenaz]

Forever teenager n youthful energy forever 😊

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@josejimenaz haha idk about a forever teenager but youthful energy for sure 💕

[@Lalalilo7]

You’re such a treasure! (And being multi-passionate is tooo relatable) I’m based in LA but as a 28yo beginner ballerina myself I hope to one day dance with y’all in NYC 👯‍♀️

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@Lalalilo7 sending love to sunny LA!! Thank you so much for your enthusiasm 💕

[@PaigeBartholomew]

I am on the waitlist! Coming from Austin, Texas! This is the best video you have ever published! I love all of the dancing! We could use more of that. Of course you’re vlogging is awesome… but I really crave to see you and your classmates learning and dancing!

[@FairyAngelJulia]

Oh Veronica, this is wonderful! Love your content! Im a 28 y/o ballet beginner from germany 👋 I dreaming of visit NYC and one of your workshops. Maybe one day! 🥰

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@FairyAngelJulia ohhhh danke! Germany is wonderful (where I got engaged 💕) sending you so much love and hoping to dance with you one day soon!

[@Rosiefiguresitout]

I love this and wish I could attend! You should have it so that people can attend online or through zoom so that you can have people be apart of the academy know matter where they are! Also, you should totally create another hat saying “Adult Ballet Academy”. I’d love to support you and represent the academy! ❤

[@julioc.toledo]

I took my first ballet class in college back in the mid-2000s, and haven't really done any ballet since (save for some sprinklings of adult drop-in classes here and there over the decades). So far I've only watched the beginning of this video, but I'm hoping I'll be able to look up this opportunity you are cultivating. There are other factors on my personal end ($), but I sincerely hope that this is something I can seriously look into, and also think that it is quite the opportunity that has a huge potential to really take off.

[@punkd22]

love this idea!! my school offers adult classes tailored to learning the foundations of ballet, they're about 7-9 weeks long and are well attended! they set them up to prepare folks for taking drop in classes, and since its not a drop in class they give a lot more feedback and instruction. i wonder if this is something you can propose to the places you take drop-ins at? :)

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@punkd22 that’s so wonderful to know!! That must be such an incredible resource for adult beginners💕

[@FomyaFomina]

I'm so happy for you. I've been watching you for a while and it's so great to see your growth and the growth of your business

[@ebonydaise9403]

Love the idea and aspiration for Starting an Adult Academy . I have studied ballet since I was a kid .Currently still studying and I would definitely come to your classes . Stay positive .

[@yikes9944]

i would love to participate in something like that, if only i lived closer! also the photographer was an amazing idea, especially with posing help, a great memento and also a fun experience :')

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@yikes9944 thanks for that feedback! It’s great to know you think it’s a great idea!

[@vlogs_harlo]

I am not an adult in ballet. But I am a ballet student, and I love this idea so much!

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@vlogs_harlo that’s so wonderful to hear!!! Thank you for watching and supporting!

[@Justauri-asdfghjkl]

Im 25 and live in NY - I WOULD LOVE THIS!!

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@Justauri-asdfghjkl come join us!!! We’d love to have you!!!

[@SkylarWinderland]

It's so inspiring to see you working hard on making your dreams come true!! 🩵🩵You are truly an inspiration, a beautiful soul and such a passionate ballerina!!🥰☺️🩵 Can't wait for online ballet academy classes for us living so far away 🙏

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@SkylarWinderland working on a solution for that!! Don’t worry!! 🥰 thank you for the support!

[@maralam9098]

please do it!!!!! I'm overrrrrr being old I'm too late. I would totally attend!

[@EmL-kg5gn]

I love this but I’m on the wrong side of the world 😂 If an adult ballet academy existed near me I would definitely want to try ballet!

[@oh.journals]

I think this Academy is a wonderful idea, I'm super proud of you

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@oh.journals that means the WORLD. Thank you for that 💕 sending so much love

[@VanessaChats]

If the dancing the ballerina is "doing" looks "easy" then she's (or he/they/them) are doing it "right" IMO. It shows the level of skill of the ballerina and I have immense respect for it.

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@VanessaChats love that! Dance like many art forms, is subjective! As adults it feels like we have to be perfect all the time, but it can be enjoyed at so many different levels and stages just because of how it makes us feel!

[@macstabby_j]

I love the energy and enthusiasm you throw into these passions. Maybe someday i can make the trek from wisconsin to learn with you :)

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@macstabby_j wow! That would be a great honor! But no matter what, thank you for watching and sharing in the enthusiasm! 💕 PS, I love Wisconsin

[@annsalomon6645]

Deanna! 💕💐 Took her ZoomBallet classes thru B'way Dance during covid lockdowns; she's an amazing teacher & human being!

[@nmm88811]

on the waitlist! can't wait to be a part of this

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@nmm88811 YES baby! Hope to dance with you sooooon!!!

[@Sashangle1]

I wish I could go to your classes omg

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@Sashangle1 hoping you have a welcoming space wherever you are💕

[@JaneHuyck-y1b]

How do we register fir yoyr adult ballet academy. Would love more info: where, when, levels, and please have Veronica teach a basic class, I adore her work ethic!

[@gabbybonilla3567]

On the waitlist! Coming from Chicago💕

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@gabbybonilla3567 omg!! That would be amazing!!! 🥹🫶🥰

[@PaigeBartholomew]

How do we get on the waitlist?

[@gabbybonilla3567]

​@@PaigeBartholomew She had a link in the description of the video. You can also just head to her website and find it on there!❤️

[@juliette3597]

Have you ever taken Jessica Epting's noon Basic or 1:45 Beginner saturday class at BDC? I think she is the embodiment (even more than Deanna though she is wonderful) of body and psychological positivity, proper beginner pacing, etc. I mentioned it to you on insta a while back I think, but just in case. I truly cannot highly recommend her enough. (Recovering former professional track apprentice-level dancer.)

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@juliette3597 thank you for this reminder! I’m going to try this as soon as I can, great recommendation! Perhaps I’ll see you there sometime 🥰

[@Hellbender8574]

A ballet class with progressive program for adult learners is a great idea. When i lived in NYC, i learned in a class like that from a teacher who is now retired. I tried drop in classes but it wasn't what i needed at the time, i needed more instruction as a beginner. Now in my current location I'm at a point where i am able to join a pre-pro class for mostly teens (and a few adults). A progressive organized curriculum is what you need to learn the art, one-off classes and workshops are accessible but not ideal.

[@VeronicaViccora]

Yes I agree! Clear, focused and organized instruction is so important as an adult beginner. I'll always be grateful to my drop in classes for getting me started, but they definitely can't cover everything you need to learn as an adult beginner! So happy to hear you have the opportunity to get the training you need!

[@ToriHanson]

I love this idea so much! I'm based in the bay area but as a 22yo ballet beginner and now I am dreaming of visiting NYC and attending one of your workshops. Maybe one day soon i will! 🥰

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@ToriHanson Tori, if would be so lovely to meet you in person and dance together! Sending love from afar and hoping you’re enjoying your summer so far!!

[@kaypattersonvlogs]

OMG I want to dance with you so bad! This looked so fun! 😭

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@kaypattersonvlogs I would loveeee that! We need a singer in our midst!

[@thesophiefernandez]

This looks amazing! So excited to attend the studio ghibli workshop!!

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@thesophiefernandez cannot WAIT to meet you there!! 🥰

[@cdvjjp]

It would be lovely if you traveled to different cities with these workshops!

[@VeronicaViccora]

This is something I'm highly considering, just trying to figure out how to make it possible!

[@starmelodyelizabethb7380]

I love Pinterest and getting inspiration

[@EvrenAlyx-fk7rv]

I wish I was in NYC 😢 So jelous, but I’m also so happy about this! Amazing work!

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@EvrenAlyx-fk7rv thank you so much! If you ever come to New York, we would LOVE to welcome you in!

[@desirreichyan365]

From Taiwan here! Wish one day I could visit the state and attend your workshop ❤

[@VeronicaViccora]

Wishing I could go to Taiwan!

[@rithrives]

oh m geeee you go girlll

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@rithrives you’re the best 🥹🫶

[@jaynemarie81]

How exciting 💖

[@martydworkis12345]

Do you happen to know how to do pump turns and fouettés by any chance?

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@martydworkis12345 fouettés I understand a little bit, but they’re not very consistent. Pump turns, not yet! Hopefully one day!

[@heatherdee9667]

I wish i could do this!

[@VeronicaViccora]

@@heatherdee9667 hoping you have a wonderful and welcoming dance space wherever you are in the world!

[@heatherdee9667]

@@VeronicaViccora thank you! I hope I can make it up to NY and you guys come to Florida!

[@jjessicaisabelle]

Pinterest mood boards 🫶🏻