Young Muslim ballet dancer aims to break new ground

Sydney teenager Stephanie Kurlow is gaining international support in her bid to become the world's first hijab-wearing professional ballerina, but she's also facing a number of challenges.

[@lunablizard8684]

Guys... Nobody says that she's a prodigy or anything like that. They just said that it's about representation! She literally said that she had a time where she stopped practicing because of the hijab but what's important is that she stood up and started again and that she's now doing something she loves!

[@FragileAsAFlower]

Ma Shalla! May Allah bless her with success, fame, love, care and support in the Akhira and the Dunya, and I am a Muslim and want to be a ballerina too, by the way! Ameen.

[@aishaahmed6079]

Mashallah!:) im a muslim ballerina and i believe in you

[@chococat_4ever]

Ameen

[@ChocoTaro_Girl]

Aamiin, i'm a muslim and i want to be a ballerina too! But i'm not sure if i can

[@silb.3490]

I really do love this, but as a dancer, I don't think she is ready yet. Her technique could still do some work, and she will definitely face a lot of hardships coming her way. By no means, is she a prodigy like Copeland or Tallchief, so she'll have to work VERY hard, but I wish her the best of luck anyways. It would be nice to see different cultures and peoples represented on the stage someday.

[@andromeda8325]

Amazing!!! ✊👏 she's such an inspiration! She's excellent Mashallah! All my support and Love from Canada!

[@laysstax2708]

This is unislamic

[@AliyahDqueen]

@@laysstax2708 leave the girl alone, it isn't un-islamic.

[@s0y30nuwu6]

hijab and costuming issues aside, her technique is no where near most at her age. so it seems highly unlikely that she will make it into a ballet company. however, her passion is what is respectable despite her setbacks

[@sarahali2943]

I am a Muslim and this girl is very inspirational. I don't believe I slam should be a wall to prevent women from their dreams but rather a protection from harm, and for her to do such a brave thing following what she believe is amazing. I am only 15 but this is truly amazing

[@badezimmertv1457]

Sam Mas Islam does with this hijab.

[@ilhamberberlady7417]

Sam Mas tell this to the men that get sexually excited seeing her dancing. And that's exactly why it's haram

[@ilhamberberlady7417]

Melanie Verwijs heb je niks beters te doen

[@jewelmarkess]

Ilhem shajiri - I am not going to comment on islam, but what you said clearly illustrates the inconsistency in her insisting on dancing ballet in hijab. She claims she needs to cover herself even in a ballet school - never mind that girls are taught separately from boys, but she wants to be on stage, dance with men, be lifted by men, often by her hips, pretend to be seductive on stage if the role requires it, and do high jumps that will allow the audience to see her panties? No, she doesn't show it here, but the choreography of many ballets require it. As to "dreams", there are also a couple of good Russian documentaries about that "Dance of the Little Swans Vaganova academy auditions..." shows auditions to a famous ballet academy where 9 out of 10 girls with dreams are rejected, and "Ballet: sweat and tears" that gives also a good insight into what a profession is about.

[@manisyaya3199]

jewelmarkess I'm Muslim but I see ur point and can fairly agree. For example myself ever since I was like 4 everyone who met me would tell me I should be a model. Even still today I hear it all the time why are u not a model? You are tall you got the the look go for it. But 1 reason why I stay away is because I don't think modeling will ever go hand in hand with what I practice. Sure other Muslims might choose to do it but me personally no because of what modeling requires. Anyway my real passion lies in fashion design been designing since I was like 7. But through this I design not only clothing for Muslim woman but something anyone would love to wear. Yet still beautiful, chic and modest.

[@gabbynisco4811]

She is a beautiful girl, but the only thing that bugged me the most is the way she tied her pointe shoes

[@SylviaEvilKitty]

The ribbon came loose and I was screaming aaaaaaa

[@crazytsvetock1]

I support her but she has to know that she will have limited chances. The ballet teacher in the beginning was right that often ballerinas have to look the same and that she may have restricted movement.

[@zainabasad101]

She can become a role model for many Muslim girls who don't follow there dream due to some reasons

[@lavendarhijab8066]

A role model to do what's wrong?? It's not allowed for muslim women to perform in public like this, and with tight fitting clothes too. This is not hijab. What she needs to understand is that there is a time and place for everything. She can do ballet in front of a strictly female only audiences. Just like hijab. Tight sexy clothes are not haram. It's haram only if you wear it in the wrong places/time such as in front of nonmahram. But other times, there's no problem if you want to. As muslims we need to understand that the Deen does not restrict but guides us on the right way to do things!

[@lavendarhijab8066]

@@jumana4642 Find a company that is ONLY FOR GIRLS/WOMEN. In the UK, there is a ballet school for muslim girls. It's strictly for girls, they encourage modest clothing and they perform to poetry instead of music. Now THAT is amazing. This? Why is a muslim girl often portrayed by the west as "role model" when they defy Islamic traditions and DONT understand the rules?

[@lorenzocipriani7921]

@@lavendarhijab8066 ahahahahahaahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah you're fanatic this poor girl wants to dance, let her dance even with the orrible things colled hijab. many bless from the universe

[@laysstax2708]

Why bother..Just ban them from participating in so called haram activities like ballet. Period

[@MariaSheep]

Good for her! I hope she achieves her dram of dancing professionally, and even if she doesn't I hope she takes pride in coming as far as she did and embracing an art form she loves. If she wants to turn around and make ballet more welcoming to others all the better. She seems like a lovely person.

[@jewelmarkess]

"more welcoming to others" - ballet is welcoming as long as you satisfy its essential requirements. The rest of us can do it as a hobby and are welcomed in the audience. Every profession has its requirements, and if you want to work in a specific profession you need to be able to satisfy its requirements. Why should an art form - and a classical one at that - change because someone wants to become a professional? Arts change because of artistic reason, and there is nothing artistic hijab would bright to Swan Lake or Giselle. Acting jobs have costuming requirements, and no ballet role is suitable for her outfit. I am not even talking about the fact that her skills are below average, and it's a very competitive field. Incidentally, she might be a lovely person, but she is using her hijab to get attention and money, maybe subconsciously. Without hijab, she'd be just one of aspiring ballet students most of whom - likely including herself - wouldn't make it. But with hijab, she gets lots of publicity and attention.

[@rockstarmari2154]

@@jewelmarkess No, she isn't using her hijab to gain attention or so, but she is keeping up the principles of her faith and following her passion, her aim wouldn't be to perform at the Opera House, but to feel herself and be an inspiration for many girls like her, nothing for attention, in my opinion nobody would invite a person like her to perform ballet, but she is happy in what she's doing and that's the most important part ...

[@jewelmarkess]

@@rockstarmari2154 The reason I thought she is using it to gain attention is because a while ago I saw pictures of her on her instagram in a see-through skirt and also one where she was sitting in a way that you could see her panties. These are old pictures a year or more ago. Would you say it's OK to show the world your panties according to the principals of her religion as long as she covers her hair? There was also one time when she posted an audition video where she was in a very short skirt and when she turned, her panties were visible, she removed it since then. (She's improved considerably there btw) If one can do that, what is the point of hijab? She did mention btw that she wants to perform in Paris Opera. Additionally, her whole claim to fame is being in hijab, and she got some gigs because of her whole image as the "first ballerina in hijab". I am sure she is really passionate about ballet, and she really improved a lot, but she is also milking the whole "first ballerina in hijab" image as much as she can whether consciously or subconsciously.

[@abyas2730]

@@jewelmarkess Its a legging.

[@jewelmarkess]

@@abyas2730 You clearly haven't seen the pictures I had in mind. They are fairly old. I'll try to find them for you and post links in a separate reply (in case it doesn't get posted.) One was a see-through skirt with very no leggings underneath. The other one was sitting with one leg out and panties very much visible. It's clear there, where the leggings end, bare skin starts, than panties. I am pretty sure males would find both very sexy. Also, I suggest you think about the reason for covering. It's not just to hide hair/skin, it's not to be sexually attractive to the opposite sex, not to provoke sexual feelings. I am a woman, but I believe a see-through skirt with legs clearly visible or legs spread apart (one is bent, one is straight) with panties visible would look very sexy. Something else for you to consider: her whole claim to fame is that she wears hijab. As far as dancing is concerned, even with a large improvement she made, it's still nowhere girls at top academies (watch Vaganova videos) or those you can see taking top spots at YAGP, and ballet is extremely competitive. Also, body shape is very much a part of being accepted to a top school or getting a job. So I guess when a girl without costume restrictions doesn't get hired because her hips or breasts are too large or her neck - too short, it's life, but when it happens to a Muslim girl, it's discrimination? How is it not asking for special privilege?

[@grownwoman777]

She is real inspiring in fact when I was young I always said one day I'll be a ballerina but people would always tell me that I'm Muslim and it looks strange and stuff obviously encouraging people to try new things in life is impossible for but I'm proud of the way I am, yet I'm not a ballerina but I'm a moonwalker and I might do ballet soon but yeah this teen has inspired me and has proved that dreams aren't and shouldn't be limited

[@sofiyyasujuandy493]

everyone says I cant do ballet because I am muslim, so I lost all hope till I learned about her, and she has inspired me too.

[@grownwoman777]

LilyAster WardahZahrah until you know you can; you will do it just keep hope, courage and ambition and always keep moral values in mind then nobody will stop you

[@avesraggiana]

+LilyAster WardahZahrah What you need to tell “Everyone” is that there have been Muslim ballerinas performing in Muslim AND Christian countries for decades, WITHOUT the hijab. Your religion doesn’t determine whether you get to be a ballerina, determination, hard work and talent do.

[@grownwoman777]

Mello Carrier literally it's nothing less than ridicule when y'all expect us muslims to rip off our skin. that's part of who i am, I don't want any comments on my boobs or butt by anyone who stares at me that's why i wanna look rather like a human than an animal. simply because I wanna live my life with no risks of losing my pride. not any assault to y'all but sorry no thanks i would much rather live my life the way i am and if i have to be like what is acceptable in your thoughts than i won't be unique and who i really am. I'm not complaining that i hate my hijab what i hate is rules for being different. i simply want to be me not like others cuz then i'll be an imitator not who i should be and mind it living life unsuccessfully is my choice if i have to be a successful imitator

[@maryamd6396]

Mello Carrier, you're an idiot, do you shower with it? how about you go educate yourself rather than acting superior, if people want to wear a hijab then they can, you have no right at all to tell someone to remove it...

[@user-dc4bl1cu2k]

She doesn't have to wear hijab even if she's Muslim.

[@samander5533]

Yes she has to

[@QueenVelveeta]

She seems "junior" in her artistic expression.

[@mooimaduckright]

This is such an inspiration to me. I am a muslim ballet dancer and I am 100% passionate in this but I am most probably not going to pursue a career in that field because of obvious reasons but Stephanie seriously inspires me so much.

[@My_Secret_ArtSketchbook]

Which country do u lie in plz

[@morganbrown1063]

This video is cringe almost. I know she is wearing a hijab and I really don't care and I'm happy for her that she is forging a way to make it into the ballet world, but her dancing is not the best for what she claims to become apart of these royal ballet companies.... not trying to hate tho

[@25monic52]

she's 14 we don't know she's in the feature

[@missl2650]

She's only 14

[@zofzofzof_iaa]

In my opinion, she lacks of emotion

[@nikkid4890]

I agree. She isn't bad, but at 14 if she was really talented it would show. I hope she loves dancing for the sake of it and not to become a great ballerina

[@brenpainting6182]

I've danced for 12 years and I see no emotions really and I'm a pointe dancer as well and she's not that good on her toes maybe just on flat

[@unalee1591]

at her age a poor turnout and weak footwork will be a great disadvantage for her. Other kids at her age could do much better. But her courage is respectable.

[@lunablizard8684]

You commented this for what reason?

[@laurennicole851]

@@lunablizard8684 because her technique is bad and dangerous. what do you think, ballet is no joke you can’t do it wrong or you’ll get injured. that’s the reality.

[@misspeng6666]

@@laurennicole851 she is learning tho, no one is perfect in the beginning x

[@l.c.7955]

@@misspeng6666 that's the point. It's too late for her to begin if she wants to be a professional dancer

[@misspeng6666]

@@l.c.7955 its never too late

[@nikiroseweller3934]

♡♡♡ I hope u reach your dream or your goal don't give up different is good shes is trying to be the first muslim ballerina and trying to show people don't let anything stop you from reaching your ultimate goal or dream and to show people they can do it if they try no matter the religon.☆☆

[@maryamd6396]

love how open minded you are

[@nikiroseweller3934]

Maryam D people make a big deal about religion but you shouldn't let anything stop you ♡♡♡

[@edaerdogan971]

Well actually she won't be the first muslim ballerina

[@avesraggiana]

She won’t be the first Muslim ballerina. That distinction went to Turkish ballerina, Kaya Ilhan whose performing career achieved its zenith in the 1950s and 1960s. And, no, she didn’t draw unnecessary attention to herself by insisting on wearing a hijab.

[@parkzaera8653]

she is very confident with her decision and im so proud of her.. i wanna be like her too 💕

[@My_Secret_ArtSketchbook]

Never give UP on your dreams wherever you are. Okay. What country are you in?

[@RosaCatz]

I can't see her becoming a professionel dancer. Not only because of the hijab (which, as the video mentions makes costuming increadibly difficult, and therefore i can't see any compagnies willing to hire her for the Corp De Ballet, which is generally the first step), but mainly because of the turned in feet. The clips of her dancing just wasn't.. Special? She should definitely be free to dance if that makes her happy. But she strongly needs to work on her turnout if she wants to be professional. That said; She has good arches so that is something. I'm also wondering how she would be able to perfom moderne pieces, as many ballet compagnies do. The outfits are often very nude, and "revealing". (Just look at Wayne McGregor's Chroma - The Hardest Button to Button).

[@heidibitz540]

I think her issues with her current technique stem from the fact that she had returned to dance after a long break and was having trouble finding a studio that would allow her to dance wearing her hijab (according to another interview I watched). If she finds or has found a studio that will accept her, her technique will improve. MC started at 13. This girl is 14.

[@jewelmarkess]

Heidi Bitz - lost years are near impossible to catch up in ballet, and even one year is a lot. 13 vs 14 might not seem like a lot for us, but it's a really big difference in ballet world, and Misty was an exception. She was born with a perfect ballet body with natural turnout - not the case here - flexibility, great feet. BTW - there is a video here of her at 15, look not just at technique, but also expression - this is how one shows personality in dance, not by wearing a different outfit. This girl doesn't show anything special, in fact, she didn't even show a single simple choreographed routine with music, even a simple dance, not necessarily ballet. Why not? Besides, she isn't showing her legs, she isn't showing much of her body, how exactly would teachers be able to correct her? For comparison, just search here "14 year old ballet" and you'll find quite a few videos by 14 year olds.

[@alim3611]

Rosa FancyPants yeah her turn out is bad .. even the pointe work is not 100 percent

[@trintrin3507]

Well she is young so she has pretty of time to practice......

[@nikkid4890]

Batgirls Cave No. By now you can clearly see talent from average.

[@lucillecarrizales4464]

She is beautiful! I hope she never gives up!

[@Danijones4571]

As a ballet dancer I can see that it's just costuming that's the problem... Ballet is so traditional it's 550 years old, us dancers have the up-most love and respect for our craft. You have to do ballet it's self 'religiously' to succeed, so I'm no sure the way around this issue of appearance.

[@melanie7781]

Next we will be seeing 50 year old 400 pound dancers. They all just want to change a classic classy ballet into a circus show now.

[@jewelmarkess]

Yes. Cannot discriminate based on weight and age. Catholic nuns may want to dance in nuns' habits, Orthodox Jewish men with a beard and in yarmulke. Shouldn't discriminate. LOL

[@My_Secret_ArtSketchbook]

@@jewelmarkess well a nun came on THE VOICE- nothing stopped her

[@My_Secret_ArtSketchbook]

Melanie what do you want to change?

[@jewelmarkess]

@@My_Secret_ArtSketchbook Do you know what ballet is? Please remind me if The Voice contestants need to act toles in love stories based on European literature and fairy tales as ballet dancers do, if their "lines" (as in outline of their body in positions and movement) is of primary importance there or if they need to blend in with others (and not vocally, their costumes and bodies) as ballet dancers need. Incidentally, as far as I remember being slightly overweight, being too tall or too short, having a short neck or large hips or breasts wasn't a problem in The Voice either. It is a problem with ballet. Oh, and crosses and yarmulkes aren't allowed on ballet stage either. Ballet isn't about dancing your own dance on stage. Really, watch some clips from Swan Lake or Giselle or Coppelia or any other ballet. Maybe you'll understand the stupidity of your comment.

[@jewelmarkess]

@@My_Secret_ArtSketchbook(to add) Incidentally, I don't believe the voice teachers need to see every detail of singers' bodies to correct their mistakes either. Here, her outfit or nun's habit (or any kind of a different costume) would look really great here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b52VnYhji8uYrrc or here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJfOYqijhr-jgas Also, how does this audition for a very prestigious ballet academy is very similar to The Voice, right? kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3bZn6hrpN2rZrs

[@fa6854]

I'm muslim girl and I really want to do ballet so much you can't imagine how I love to dance but I wearing hijab and here in Saudi Arabia no ballet studio or someone know what ballet is.. so i learn simple steps and do it from KZbin hahah. whatever I encourage you and I hope one you will be professional :).

[@jewelmarkess]

She will not be a professional. Not only is she not good enough, but how exactly would you expect her to dance in Swan Lake, Don Quixote, Coppelia, any of the standard ballets in her outfit? Ballet involves acting, actors are supposed to dress the part. BTW - you can watch Vaganova academy exam videos for steps, starting from their "class 0 (pre-entry courses)". These are exam videos, but at least you'll see what they do during each year starting from their "prep" course. Just an idea, I am not a dancer, but I figure at least it's systematic and by level there. Just don't injure yourself - these girls at Vaganova are chosen for having the right body for ballet as well as flexibility, most people don't have it.

[@user-fz7zx9gc2y]

There are a few studio in KSA

[@ramaabuasaad9732]

There are ballet studios in KSA. I go to one and its great. You indeed can do ballet specially here in KSA because u dont have to partner with guys so..

[@ramaabuasaad9732]

Unless u want it as a career then sorry but that isnt possible

[@naheenisapoet69]

Dancing is haram get over it

[@morganbrown1063]

Her shoes are not even tied right, I'm cringing

[@lily-228]

Girl shut up and let her live she's trying to pursue something so either be supportive of it or just STOP WATCHING

[@emij1210]

Alongside all the religious and traditions, I don't think it's all that safe to dance with a hijab. If it comes undone or loose in the middle of a performance, she can't adjust it. So let's say this happened and she has to do fouettes, there's the possibility of it getting caught on her hand or foot, and could possible suffocate/ strangle her.

[@jewelmarkess]

Great point. I also think about the schools. How can they teach her if they cannot see her hips and knees? What about posture and alignment with chest and neck covered?

[@blowtorchacurlyfry1]

what rubbish.They make sports hijabs that are one continuous piece of fabric that women have been wearing for years. Google it.

[@adrsmzln]

@@jewelmarkess there are sport skirts you know? and muslim have been wearing them for a long time

[@jewelmarkess]

@@adrsmzln They need to see hips, not just legs, and check turnout (outward rotation of hips), necks too as well as chest, important for body lines and posture. If you watch a few ballet exam videos here, you'll see that while higher grades often wear tiny skirts (which rise on turns btw), the lower ones all were leotards so that the teacher could see everything. Have you ever seen a ballet btw? Watch a few ballet videos, Entrance of the Swans from Swan Lake would be a good choice or a dream sequence from Don Quixote or shade scene from La Bayadere. Imagine one of the dancer in group dances dressed differently, doesn't matter how, just differently. One of the swans in hijab or one of shades. We are talking about professional performances where everything needs to be perfect, not some amateur free for all. Nobody has a choice of a costume on a ballet stage. In sports you don't act roles in stage.

[@jewelmarkess]

@@adrsmzln To add to what I just said. I just found that someone actually asked about dancers and skirts, and the answer was that in professional schools skirts are not allowed in technique classes except for some classes at the advanced level. "Skirts hide from the teacher how a student is engaging their muscles." Watch exercises in this class: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4i6oXaOoNaZiZo A skirt would cover top of the hips, and the teacher will not see if the students engage correct muscles during exercise. Everything is important. These are older girls, about 15, and they have skirts, but notice how short the skirts are: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGLFnnSCo62Cjtk Also, neck position is super-important too.

[@anisahkamarul6776]

SHE IS SO GORGEOUSS!! HER EYES !!

[@russzoya]

Is she allowed to dance with a guy?

[@ronelyaseen4571]

russzoya i was wondering too 🙁

[@russzoya]

I don't think so, unless the male dancer is a family member. I admire her courage and wish her luck though. she is breaking stereotypes which is great.

[@mariabardo6420]

Yes she can as long is not sexual. Islam is a religion. Muslims practices Islam but ALSO they have different cultural backgrounds. Some countries are more strict than others.

[@minyoonji8699]

yes, like for example in turkey they arent that strict.

[@laylajhkybki5781]

russzoya yes we are allowed to dance with guys just not sexually

[@ohyeahyeah6974]

she soo young which makes it more amazing😲

[@Afidazara]

Hey you inspire me!

[@avesraggiana]

There have been Muslim ballerinas for several decades now, since the 1940s. Turkey had, and still has a national ballet company, as did Iran. Also, children of Muslim immigrants from countries like Pakistan and Egypt have all forged successful careers in the ballet world. I'm thinking now of Benazir Hussein, ballerina and former principal dancer of the Royal Ballet, Miriam Mahdaviani, formerly of the NYCB, danseurs Afshin Mofid of NYCB, Kader Belarbi of POB, and Hayadeh Changizian, formerly of of the now defunt Iranian National Ballet. These are just a few Muslim dancers who are known within the ballet world. What I've NEVER seen is a dancer attempt to perform in a hijab. I think the wearing of a hijab is an unnecessary impediment. I also notice that the family cleaving to this strict observance are white Australian converts. I think they're misguided. When ballet was brought to predominantly Muslim countries, even ones that were culturally conservative, no one who was born and raised Muslim would have ever insisted on wearing a hijab while performing. They wouldn't have dreamed of it! Why should these white converts insist on doing so?

[@kushinaa1XD]

Aves Raggiana Soo True!! 👏

[@anjalimahesh7265]

Aves Raggiana Being a convert doesn't make her any less of a Muslim. Nor does it make her need of wearing a hijab while dancing any less invalid. Every Muslim is different. I know many of my friends who are Muslim and don't wear hijabs and many that do. At the end of the day she doesn't want to dance without her hijab on and we should respect that. I have that you're saying it as if she isn't a 'real' Muslim.

[@jewelmarkess]

Anjali - she needs to wear her hijab, but she can let men grope her on stage and lift her leg above her head allowing half of the audience see her panties? Ballet isn't an art form that lends itself to modest clothing. Catholic nuns and orthodox Jews will not be able to dance ballet either. Have you ever seen a ballet? Oh, and ballet is a visual art. Everyone starts in the corps, and corps members are supposed to blend in, look the same. Additionally, ballets have stories, and one expects to see Spanish girls, swans, Hindi temple dancers, etc. dressed according to the role.

[@inbetween1-042]

Aves Raggiana Does it matter? While those other ballerina moved along with the origin or ballet such as uncovering their head and stuff, she is upholding Islam in her own way. Also, art is all about improvements and changes. She might even start a whole new ballet trend. In my humble opinion, she is someone all Muslim should see as an example. Upholding your view and faith in the face of a culture that is so opposite is not easy as many of these famous ballerina has shown. They are willing to uphold the ballet culture over religion because like many commentators said, it has never been done and look out of place. But here is a convert who are willing to mix these two because she is both faithful to her religion as well as her passion for ballet. I salute her.

[@inbetween1-042]

jewelmarkess Costumes can be redesigned. She can wear tight pants thick enough you can't see her undergarments and wear long skirt over it. As long as lust is not involved and she is professional about it, there is nothing wrong about being touched by the opposite gender. I'm a Muslim and I don't wear hijab. Sure it is mandatory but Islam is flexible with enough understanding of the religion and with that understanding she can do whatever she want.

[@amalchahine3142]

Go girl! Insha'Allah, you'll have success!

[@fariss2805]

It's really amazeballs...i'm proud of him

[@lilamuller4017]

Her hijab will make costume design very difficult, since all costumes have to look the same. I don’t think she’ll get very far considering the hijab is a burden.

[@reeljour884]

this is really encouraging i always dream to share my love for ballet with people but i couldn't do it because of hijab

[@warrirgirl6353]

*_ma Shaa ALLAH she's a Princess_* 😍😍😍👏👏👏👏

[@justateen7105]

It's gonna be very tough for her. I hope she'll manage to achieve her dreams

[@adenliz2377]

I respect her hard work but asking ballet tradition to change bec of her dream is a bit unfair..

[@salmamostafa4142]

Aden Liz She’s not asking them to change anything nor is she asking for any exceptions.

[@sannik9399]

She's brave but let's face it, it would be really hard to get into a company wearing a hijab and if she can't dance with male dancers aka pas de deux. Ballet is not about religion, in my opinion, you should leave your own personal views outside it. I don't mean only islam but all religions.

[@diafarah6131]

Sanni K if she wants to keep her religion and follow her dreams she can

[@badezimmertv1457]

DIA Zahir no

[@diafarah6131]

BADEZIMMER TV yes!!!

[@charly2658]

It's quite hard and yes I didn't realize the male side of things until now

[@selma4152]

She can dance with a male dancer I m a muslim and a dancer and i do so

[@gudrunmichel4804]

Tbh she is not even close the the level pre professionals her age are . That is the main problem . Also if you see a group of people who all have too look the same (costuming) she can’t look different .And in ballet you need to see the lines of the body ,especially the legs . And as you can tell she’s covering up. Just like the man said :) so yeah

[@rerai5996]

Gudrun Michel let her do what she dreams of! She is a wonderful human being!

[@jewelmarkess]

Ammara Michel - being a wonderful human being isn't a requirement for ballet, but having the right body, skills, talent and being able to wear costumes are. Ballet is insanely competitive, and every opening in professional schools especially for her age has likely more than 10 people for one spot, at least for girls. Do you have a clue of how many girls who don't have costumer requirements dream about becoming ballet dancers, but can't? Really, you clearly don't seem to know much about ballet or even performing arts in general. Ever been to a theater?

[@jc3687]

Okay. Objectively she don't have a level in dance at all ( sorry this is the truth she was making huge mistake ), so if you want to ne ballerina first she has to be really really great so she will be accepted.

[@melaniefares1382]

Love this girl. Go for it honey!❤️

[@ozzotolol3810]

insya Allah.. everything's going to be fine.. love you all.

[@kristinawhitlow4761]

Love how you are modest, ma'am! And also very good, skillful dancing, ma'am.

[@scentasia]

You go girl!!

[@TaeTae-cv9xz]

Ok but shes so beautiful omg

[@M1710100]

Well, I think that Stephanie's first problem is that she is not a particularly good dancer. OK, that might have been because of lack of training, but ballet schools work with kids to prepare them to be professional classic ballet dancers, and even if she works very hard, she can't fit into any existing classical ballet - with hijab on her head she can't play a part of a non-hijab wearing heroine. So she would have to invent new direction in ballet - which is potentially possible, but then to do that you have to be a real ballet prodigy, and for all her spirit and determination she doesn't really seem to be one. But anyway, if she can somehow finish ballet school, that would be great for this kid, and as for her plan to create her own school - she would have to find a whole big group of professional ballet people sharing her ideas and creative interests. But I wish she never had to face this situation in the first place. I wish she had been allowed to dance without a hijab by her parents and have a childhood without this one huge frustration to be denied the thing she loved so much.

[@jillgooner]

I agree, nothing special at all, Carnt see her dancing Manon. Shes not doing any harm but it seems to be going against the restrictions placed on many muslim women. What next a Nun in Mayerling.

[@jillgooner]

It was always be difficult for muslim girl to perform in this field not because of prejudice in the ballet world but because of restrictions in there own community. Obviously it will be easier for men because of dress code that women chose to adhere to but that is thier choice. There any many so called ethnic minorities dancing at the royal ballet a lot of which are Korean, Japanese and china has a wonderful company. Black dancers can make it if they have the talent, determination and encouragement by thier own family. Look at Carlos acosta. A much adored member of the royal ballet. I hope she is an inspiration to other young muslims but I'm afraid will never dance a classic ballet because of her own restrictions not because of prejudice

[@Yankeeboo]

Its's this Muslim girl who has to change for the ballet world not the other way around.

[@sisicavegn2536]

where do we get the skirt, I love it

[@user-yc4iy3jq9i]

تعبر عن نفسها بطريقة صحية مقبولة في مجتمعها 🌷

[@HannaVesnic]

I want to learn how to dance ballet too! I know I am kind of too old to start (18), however I do not want to become a professional or anything, I just want to enjoy it, ballet is just so beautiful and full of emotion... Hijab doesn't change anything, I wear hijab - but I sing (I went to music school for 7 years), I play the piano and I've started learning how to play the guitar (one day I want to learn to play the violin). I dance to music when I am with my friends (female), I draw and I am about to start studying architecture in Turkey (I even got a scholarship), now I was thinking of starting ballet, that's why I looked up if there are any hijabi girls that dance it. Ofcourse all of these things can be bad if you are trying to be provocative and do it in public, but I just wish to enjoy it myself and my friends can sometimes see me dancing or hear me singing, and one day I want my husband to enjoy it too!!! (when I get married)...

[@isabellakarlssonrolli8780]

I started when I was ballet when I was 18 and I was afraid to start since I thought I was too old. You're never to old to start if you just wanna do it for fun. I've been dancing for two years now I'm so happy that I didn't let my fear stop me, ballet is so much fun and it's also great exercise. If you want to do ballet Hanna, do it :)

[@LinLin-dn5kf]

Hanna Vesnic l

[@jewelmarkess]

Isabella Karlsson - you are never too old to do something for fun. But you cannot become a professional and you know it. Hanna Vesnic - if you don't care about becoming a professional which you cannot do anyway given your age - by 18-19 professional ballet dancers finish their training and start auditioning for theaters; however, one problem I see with your trying to learn ballet even for fun while wearing hijab is that every body line is every muscle is important in ballet. Teachers need to see all of it to correct your mistakes, mistakes that can lead to injuries. Now, since girls and boys are taught separately, and girls' teachers are women, you should have no trouble wearing a leotard in class. So for hobby classes and if you don't want to learn partnership, you should be able to do it as long as there are no windows to a hallway or something like it. Oh, and this girl, Stephanie, will never become a ballet dancer both because of her outfit and because of her not being good enough.

[@nampijjanazifah6358]

Hanna Vesnic tell them please what's wrong with performing when wearing hijjab? when you are necked that's when then bones move rightly? you people if you can't understand Islam leave it to those who understand it .

[@jewelmarkess]

nampijja nazifah - we may not understand islam, but you don't understand ballet. Imagine someone in her outfit among girls in one of these scenes from famous ballets: Here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6HOpZ1jltSgaKc Or here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gaasnHiFfKx8opY Sometimes ballet dancers are required to dance character dances of other cultures too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4fQdaSCpch1iNU Edited to add: the last dance is actually a Polish dance danced in traditional costumes, and these are obviously kids, students from Vaganova ballet academy. But nampijja, my main point is: dancers don't do what they want on a ballet stage, and costumes are determined based on role in the story, choreography, and ballet style. Moreover, all professional ballet dancers, no matter the talent or skill, start in corps i.e. dancing in groups and blending in with groups. 80% stay there. Also, the first two are all-women scenes, but partnership is required, and all professional schools have required partnership classes. Enter "Vaganova academy duet exam" to see what is required as far as dancing with men goes. Of course, it's professional ballet, hobby dancing is all different.

[@rowbom]

It is lovely to see this - the ballet seems to transform her into sometime other than a young Muslim girl.

[@hamnab4427]

Wow she didn't gave up on her talent. Keep it up!!!!! Cause I am a Muslim myself and my dream is also to become a ballet dancer and figure skater... Allah bless u💚💚❤️❤️

[@hamrunizspar1]

Hamna Babar. You may be a Muslim but it doesn't sound like you read your Koran much. I am not a Muslim and I see ballet for what it is, an art form. But not everybody does. Especially Muslim men who sexualise anything in their mind at least. They may not go to the ballet but they will drool over pictures of a dancer(never mind that she often wears a body-stocking for such men see only near-nakedness). Ballet is very often about couples, love, sex. And I cannot think of a ballet where the couple get married. Western culture is normal and human. Like Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet for instance(also a ballet and an opera I believe). They new each other sexually but were not married. They came from rival families(in Islam, these would be different Islam sects). Romeo and Juliet had the blessing of a kindly friar/monk. Such a story could not be acceptable to Muslim society.

[@jewelmarkess]

Hamna Babar - You can do both as a hobby, but not seriously. Forgetting hijab for a moment - your choice in figure skating, ridiculous in ballet - becoming a ballet dancer or a good competitive figure skater requires starting at an early age, having right physical characteristics (especially for ballet), and sacrificing your childhood to training. You cannot do both. Watch this, this is real ballet training: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZXPfmWHjqefe5o

[@shahd_5]

مشاء الله الله يوفقها 💕

[@renjuuw]

Mashallah✨

[@micheif_managed4898]

Go for it girl❤

[@MyWorld-jc1kf]

Im really happy about her

[@dyakumala4551]

My daughter's idol

[@NuggetKhalid]

Love it!!

[@sallylemon5835]

Her performance is impressive. She's actually quality. Just that she's been having hard time getting school that can take her this way, that kinda eaten up so much time she could've polished her moves. At least she isn't a self absorbed thinking she could go high on athlete level, but just wanna do better and best. Her goals are not to top in any competition and ranking but to open a school, school not just for posh rich white ballerinas but for EVERYONE in public regardless of demographic, as long as they have passion to do this art. Her spirit and intention is realistic and amazing.

[@jewelmarkess]

"posh white ballerinas" - have you seen Michaela DePrince and read her story? She is hardly an example of "posh white ballerina". Watch Precious Adams too. Also watch "Ballet: sweat and tears" - and see how Oksana Skorik lives, saying that she is lucky to have a whole room (not even an apartment) to herself while the other two dancers who also work in Mariinsky - one of the best if not the best ballet theater in the world - have to share a room. If she'd been so "posh", surely she could've just rented an apartment? Incidentally, if you talk about recreational ballet, there are plenty of ballet schools for amateurs open for everyone - those in hijab, overweight people, adults. You really need to look for one in your area if you are interested. I am sure you'll find one. Professional ballet training is expensive in countries that don't have state academies that are free, but recreational studios aren't. "high on athlete level" - ballet isn't a competitive sport. It's performing art. The purpose is to get a job in a theater, or, better yet, become a soloist or a principal, although most stay in corps. She clearly found one now, you missed her audition videos. She improved a lot, btw., but probably still not enough given she is 17 now. She removed the audition videos likely because her outfit there - showing her legs and with panties visible during turns - didn't quite go with the idea of hijab. If you are a Muslim, tell me, isn't the idea of hijab is not to provoke sexual feelings in men? It's not just hiding the hair, right? Here, don't you think this is sexy? instagram.com/p/BmQi4ZgAbdi/ Yes, a see-through skirt goes well with hijab. It seems to me she is getting a lot of publicity and fame just because she wears hijab.

[@ileanamuntean7338]

Ballet is universal!!! God bless her and hopefully, many will follow her example.

[@friendlyhands_]

She had no role model... She's now THE role model

[@pinkrose7708]

Guys, I think I found the swan princess

[@safiranys]

Well she is my role model❤

[@lavendarhijab8066]

Why? Because she has a headscarf on while doing something not allowed in Islam? If that's the definition of a role model today, then it's easy to be one lol. It's not allowed for muslim women to perform in front of nonmahram and in fitting clothes like this. But if she performs in front of female audiences only, then it's ok. In the UK there is a muslim ballet school that is only for girls, encourage modest clothing, and they perform to poetry instead of music. Now that, is a far greater achievement and smart thinking that this. Engaging in your passion without trespassing the limits.

[@lucillecarrizales4464]

Nice role model! I also look up to her! Keep working and never EVER give up

[@jewelmarkess]

So refusing to satisfy job requirements yet expecting essential job requirements to change for her makes her a role model? Expecting a professional ballet school - where there is a lot of competition among those better than she is - to take her while she is clearly not good enough, actually quite bad, makes her a role model too? As to "never give up" - do you understand "theater" and "acting"? Ballet dancers act roles. Actors should portray religion of the character and not their own. Oh, and she isn't even good enough, enter "14 year old ballet" into search and see for yourself. Watch a few 12 year olds from Vaganova as well.

[@AliyahDqueen]

I hope she becomes the biggest ballet dancer, may Allah bless her. ❤️

[@jewelmarkess]

Check her instagram and learn something about ballet.

[@Sheraz_ad]

This will never happen. She's a galaxy far from the required level. I'm very sorry, no shade but she doesn't even have the technique, grace and posture of a 9 yo ballet dancer.

[@AliyahDqueen]

@@Sheraz_ad That's why there is such a thing called practice and determination. I think your dislike for her is, because she is Muslim.

[@Sheraz_ad]

@@AliyahDqueen I don't dislike her at all !! I'm just talking about her technical abilities! You Muslim people need to stop victimizing yourselves and deliberately misinterpreting factual assessment as religion rejection! You're desperately schizophrenic! You pretend to be open minded but you're not capable of listening to any different opinion from yours.

[@AliyahDqueen]

@@Sheraz_ad Victimizing? We are not the ones broadcasting fake news, and demozing the religion. Your statements about this young girl is quite clear, you don't tell someone that they will never reach their goals, or that it's impossible for them to do so. Just because some is 700 pounds does not mean they won't become 124 pounds. It might seem hard, or far from reach, but with determination they will get there. So don't call it victimizing, when I am spilling facts, you know the image that has been placed on the religion of Islam, and its not a good one.

[@morganolfursson2560]

I wrote this comment about the Hijabi iceskater but it applies to her as well, whether in sports or artistc physical performance One shouldn't bring religion into sports . There is a uniform , you wear the uniform and you perform . I am against the hijab in sports , if your religion doesn't allow you to wear the uniform, the religion is the problem not the sport . Personally i don't support her or any religious person who wants to change the rule and the uniform of a sport . What's next synchronize swimming with a hijab , swimming race with a burkini gymnastics with a burka , Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianism, Judaism, Shintoism, etc etc allow their practitioners male or female to do any sport they want without making any fuss regarding the rules and the uniform , if Muslims can't accept the very same rules and uniform then keep yourself out of sports . I am not anti Muslims , i am anti any form of religion , but as a gay man i am definitely not a supporter of Islam since most islamic country still kill or incarcerate gay people , but at least the other religions except for some fucked up christians and jews , don't have any issue with my sexuality today , and i can live in Switzerland without having to hide my orientation and can walk freely with my husband and our kids without fearing for their life of mine. So this might be a bit off topic but the reasoning is the same , if you can't adapt to modern society then stay away from modern society . Women have fought centuries to be able to do sports and to get rid of the corsets the crinolines the bustles and all the thinks that handicapped them in sports or everyday life , and they won the fight , everywhere except Muslim countries where not only it is still illegal to uncover your body but it is even a choice by women not to , to the point that they look down on the women who wish they could in those same countries, because not every women in the middle east is muslim, many are against religion , many wish they could do sport without a fucking hijab , even more wish they could go on the street without a burka or a veil over their face . so how about them , how about the ones who consider that religion should be a matter of choice and not an obligation. This girl with her hijab is forcing us to go backward and forcing the ladies in her own country to conform to the norm and the uniform and accept the rules, when herself wants to be given the right to change the rule the norm and the uniform in sports . Personally i say NO, get rid of your fucking hijab or stay the fuck out of the free world of sports where religion is not welcome .

[@AB-hq6kw]

Morgan Olfursson couldn't agree more. I was a Muslim and I live in an Islamic country. most woman wear hijab but they secretly wish to take it off.

[@Galastel]

You're being inexact about Judaism not in any way conflicting with sports. (Don't know about other religions - I just speak of what I know.) It's a question of how strictly a person chooses to observe the religious dictates. Some people are more observant than others. For instance, observant Jewish girls always wear a skirt that reaches to at least the knees. You might see them taking up many sports as a hobby, but this does get in the way of them going professional. It is important to me to stress that this is their choice, the way they choose to balance different things they care about (sports, religion). I believe all people should have that choice. Freedom is not "not having different things you care about conflict with each other", but "having the right to choose within such a conflict, unconstrained by government etc." Stephanie Kurlow chooses to wear a hijab, and to pay the price with her ballerina carrier. Her choice. I respect it. In many Muslim countries, women do not have the choice - they are forced to choose the hijab. I must protest against that. A ballet company that does not accept a hijab-wearing girl is well within its rights: professional ballet does have its standards with costume. If a hijab-wearing girl chooses to dance as a hobby, she should be free to do so. If she chooses to open a school, to open a theatre, to have her own choreography that would accommodate a hijab, I don't see why not. The glory of creation is in its infinite diversity and the ways our differences combine to create meaning and beauty.

[@Lisa-hair]

Morgan Olfursson tbh, it just looks like she's doing the same moves over and over again.

[@annabosch9230]

I'm not racist or anything, but she doesn't dance that well. Look at her turnout and feet, they're not correct. And, it won't be easy to dance with a hijab. I wish her the best though💙

[@NatashaEstrada]

I think she's only just started to take class again.

[@TraceysHappyPlace]

she is only 14

[@orbeamarco]

Agree, from what I see here...her feet, turnout, flexibility and strength seem way behind other 14 year olds on the path to becoming a professional. She's got a long way go to, but with a ton of hard work, no reason why she can't get there. I too wish her the best.

[@avesraggiana]

With any luck she won’t get very far in ballet, and we can forget about this nonsense with the hijab. I’m sure this girl is talented in many areas - but ballet is not one of them. That’s very evident.

[@nabila6716]

yeah cause you don't just start out being super good at something. you gotta practice. it doesn't matter what religion you are, this applies to everyone.

[@gogirls3315]

mashallah !

[@aishaaden7071]

Im also a muslim and ive wanted to dance my whole life but I can't .I think ballet has inspired me in many way and I hope she goes far

[@jewelmarkess]

You can do it as a hobby. Ballet classes are segregated, girls are taught separately from boys and by women teachers, so you'd not need to cover yourself there. If you do it as a hobby, you don't need partnership classes. As to being a professional, unless you are 10-11 at most, have a perfect "ballet body", musicality, flexibility, and are ready to sacrifice your childhood and possibly time with your parents to hard work and pain, you couldn't do it regardless of what you wear. As to this girl, she will not get anywhere in ballet unless she wants to create her own dance style which is perfectly fine. But really, why a classical centuries-old European art form should change because people who cannot satisfy its requirements want to practice it? If you love ballet, do you really think she'd look good among "swans" in Swan Lake?

[@yishk3593]

I know her in real life! Her mum and my mum are good friends

[@fafsa9347]

awesome!

[@nimmihossain7341]

mashaallah

[@elliethorpe1966]

I don't get why there are so many vids about this cus it's just a girl wearing a hijab completing her dreems

[@zahraisah8740]

Ma Sha Allah, she inspires me

[@jewelmarkess]

To do what? Expect a job description to change when you are unable to satisfy its essential requirements? Ballet is a visual art. How do you think a single "swan" in hijab would look in this scene: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6HOpZ1jltSgaKc What about this scene: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5OVo32YdpqWfdk - this is supposed to be an European royal court sometimes in the past, do you think anybody of European noblewomen in the 18th or 19th century were Muslims? Or does she expect all ballets re-choreographed just because of her. She isn't even good. Of course, she is welcome to do it as a hobby or create her own dance style or open a school and hire competent teachers.

[@zahraisah8740]

jewelmarkess All I was saying was that, she inspires me to do what people thought was impossible for Muslimahs to do. There are a lot of criticism everywhere.

[@jewelmarkess]

I see what you mean, and her will power and persistence is admirable indeed. Incidentally, there have been quite a few Muslim ballet dancers, and there are ballet theaters in several Muslim countries e.g. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rpCqZYyul92seJo . But the dancers that dance there don't wear hijab on stage as it simply doesn't work in ballet (or any acting that involves acting roles of non-Muslims). Incidentally, some Christians believe in dressing modestly, so do Orthodox Jews. They don't pursue ballet. Oh, and most people cannot become ballet dancers, you need to have a special body among other requirements. You are talking about hijab. Short neck, wide hips, too tall, too short, large breasts developed at puberty - bye bye ballet.

[@zahraisah8740]

jewelmarkess Thanks for that, really cleared up some things. It all up to her. I'm just a fan 😊😊

[@chloemarie1881]

She is a inspiration

[@lebahmadu81]

💗

[@fatimasthequeen3999]

MASHALLAH go girl!

[@palupipuio3548]

❤❤❤

[@justskz5404]

Wow

[@janamalkawi1390]

I am 14 and my dream is to be a ballerina dancer and I am Muslim

[@candyclouds3755]

BEAUTIFUL.

[@fraumakmosel5337]

Beautiful !

[@sallylemon5835]

The fact that her skills may not be that way above average or international championship winning, but she is definitely well known than the current world's top ballerina of her generation. It takes courage to stand differently among the rest and you got it girl.

[@jewelmarkess]

LOL "top ballerina" -- are you serious? Lopatkina is a top ballerina, Vishneva is - go look them up. Do you even know what ballet is? Ever seen one? Go look at some scenes from Swan Lake and imagine one of the swans in hijab. Stand differently? How so? Dance the role of an 18th century French peasant girl while wearing hijab? The only type of being known in ballet world that matters is being known for good dancing, not by having a couple of newspaper articles and some youtube views. Incidentally, there have been Muslim ballet dancers already, even a principal at Royal Ballet. There are ballet theaters in Istanbul, Cairo, before 1979 there was a ballet theater in Iran. But they actually cared for art, and wouldn't have even thought of dancing in hijab and long skirt. In ballet, it's very important to see the body lines - long necks, complete legs. How would a teacher even correct her without seeing her legs?

[@sallylemon5835]

To be honest those names you mentioned, yeah i seriously don't know them. At least for most of those who don't follow ballet, yeah we really do not know them.

[@jewelmarkess]

Sally Lemon - it simply shows you know absolutely nothing about ballet. Why do you think then you can decide who is a "top ballerina"? Just because she was on tv? LOL ballet isn't like pop culture.

[@sallylemon5835]

I never say anyone is at the level above the top ballerina. Im just sayin someone is being more well known by average public without having to be anything close to the top.

[@jewelmarkess]

Sally Lemon - being known by average public is not part of a definition of "top ballerina" (which isn't even a term). Not to mention that 1500 views on youtube and a couple of news clips in Australia is hardly "well known". About "championships": ballet isn't a competitive sport. International competitions are means to an end - getting used to performing, getting noticed, getting invited to attend a top school on a scholarship, prize money, or - the final goal of every ballet dancer - a job in a good ballet company. Many students of famous schools don't even go to competitions. Every young dancer hired by a ballet company no matter how talented starts in the corps i.e. one of the swans in Swan Lake, one of ball guests, etc. A few may eventually get solo roles and if they do them well - promoted to soloists. Very few get to dance leading roles and get promoted to principal which is what being a prima ballerina means. Just watch a few ballet clips e.g. entrance of swans from Swan Lake or clips from Don Quixote and you'll understand why her outfit is problematic for ballet. 1. It's about showing beautiful body lines - legs, necks, etc. 2. it's theater, dancers are acting roles, and actors must wear costumes. If you have time and interest - there is a Russian documentary "Dance of the Little Swans" about Russian kids auditioning to the most famous ballet school in the world (some people may say one of three most famous schools).

[@marytremendous9091]

I am proud of her wearing scarf and long skirt

[@layan6932]

wow

[@pleasekillme3215]

OMG YOU CAN SEE HER ANKLES!!!!!

[@dinaf.k5372]

She reminds me of two different actresses I know. One is Saoirse Ronan and the other is Juno Temple. It's just my opinion the way I look at her face. But overall, she looks stunningly beautiful mashallah :)

[@ILuvWesker]

i still idk how they get thoruth summer

[@tantizainalabidin5175]

Well done. I took ballet too :-) did it for 13 years.

[@marissathecat3445]

This is sad. I believe that these women are trapped to their "perfect standards" and "rules". On top of that, this idea is slightly unrealistic. I feel that it would be partially ridiculous to take on this idea "only because of her religion". Ballet is not about favoritism or cheating the rules, it is about being "the cream of the crop", and overall the best. Companies do not take sob stories, and this girl obviously lacks technique, strength and flexibility. Partnering with a male would be a problem. but not the absolute worst. She could be a background dancer, or part of a corps de ballet. Basically, she is not alloud to use her hijab to get her things, she just has to work her hardest (stop having those floppy arms as well), and take whatever comes her way.

[@scootabean]

THIS comment is sad.......OMG!

[@md.rafiqulomar8045]

💐💐💐

[@LinaLina-xg2xx]

I actually want to be a singer

[@danza521]

I guess it's very inspirational, but you can't walk on a stage with your pointe shoes untied, no excuses for that. Also, I think that passion is not enough at all, she needs to work on her lines, dehors, arabesques and all of that technical stuff required in ballet.

[@h3ba2100]

She looks beautiful ...

[@maryamkhan2978]

Way to go girl 👍👍👍

[@TahiraSkates]

I really admire her for the courage, but I feel like a ballet company probably won't take her on because she can't wear the tight clothing that professional ballerinas have to wear, and ballet has very strict rules. As far as I know, ballerinas have to wear certain costumes for their roles, and their neck and legs have to be visible. Her technique also isn't as good as it should be at her age. All that said, I hope she manages to overcome her challenges.

[@savagetwin52]

Ah, did he say that ballet was the "great leveler"? I think NOT. Google history of blacks in ballet. So not true.

[@jewelmarkess]

Blacks indeed faced discrimination in ballet, but this is changing. Watch Precious Adams or Michaela DePrince - stunning. Sure there aren't many black dancers, but there are more among young people. But this is different. Black dancers wanted to dance ballet as it's supposed to be danced, but faced discrimination because of their skin color. But this girl refuses or aren't able to satisfy essential job requirements. Ballet involves acting roles, actor wear costumes suitable for the role, but she cannot do it. In training, teachers need to see every muscle and every body line, she cannot even be taught when she covers everything. Ballet is also about body lines, showing necks and legs is vital. This girls isn't facing discrimination, she is unable to satisfy essential job requirements. Incidentally, if instead of giving this girl scholarship simply for wearing hijab, the guy gave the same money to a talented child from a poor neighborhood, from minorities, it'd go farther in terms of increasing diversity. Ballet training is expensive.

[@savagetwin52]

jewelmarkess Yes I understand what you are saying but maintain that ballet is NOT they great leveller. There needs to be recognition of this. To say that things have changed for the younger generation seems to deny the discrimination in ballet and therefore allow that status quo and all of those on whose shoulder this young woman stands. I would encourage you to see the biographic story of Misty Copeland. It includes the exclusion of dancers throughout history solely based on racism as it still and will remain if we do not understand the history and fight against to support all girls being able to realize their dreams. Whether it is because of skin color or culture including being able to wear the hijab, we must remain vigilant.

[@jewelmarkess]

You may have a point. But as said, things are changing. However, this young woman has zero business of claiming discrimination, it's actually insulting to dancers who experienced it. First of all, this girl is actually a pretty bad dancer. Even if she were to take off her hijab, no professional ballet school would take her. Second, an actor on stage cannot refuse to wear a costume suitable for the role. Name any theater who'd allow actors to wear what they please. Jewish dancers cannot wear kippahs on stage, Christian dancers cannot wear crosses, what makes this girl special? Now, Precious Adams did experience discrimination in Russia, Michaela DePrince experienced it as a child when they wouldn't give her the role of little Clara. Regarding Misty, you cannot blame her not being promoted to principal earlier on discrimination as at the time she was not better than other soloists who weren't getting any opportunities to dance lead roles because of ABT reliance on guest artists (this changed now). Stella Abrera, Maria Ricetto, Yuriko Kajiya and several others long-time soloists were just as deserving. Three of them - Ricetto, Kajiya and one other soloist even left ABT citing lack of opportunities. They are now principals in other theaters. Given this situation, how can Misty claim discrimination for not being promoted to principal? You can claim discrimination when others who aren't as good as you are getting promoted, but not where you are one of several good soloists who are in the same position. Misty is good, but not great, and she has serious issues with her technique. For example, she isn't able to do all 32 fouettes in Swan Lake, she does less than half than occupies time with turns. In fairness to her, several other ABT principals failed at these fouettes this year, but she has never been able to do them. Oh, and Stella Abrera was promoted together with Misty, but she was a soloist for longer and is IMHO a better dancer. This is just an opinion...

[@pittmanla]

He said that talent is the great leveler.

[@iridescentdaybreak]

he did not say, "ballet is the great leveler," he said "the great leveler in ballet is talent."

[@zofzofzof_iaa]

Idk... She... Lacks of emotion in her dance...?

[@blackbeauty6419]

even i wear hijab from 10 years old i am in UAE

[@girlmath-abolisher]

Most ballet dancers with darker skin do face harsh discrimination because of their race, but I can guarantee you that this girl definitely _does not_ . Ballet is all about appearances, so if you _look_ white, like she does, you might as well _be_ white. They don't care about your name or religion. The only reason they don't pick her in auditions is because the costume she insists on. Ballet is very physical and every part of the body should be able to convey all the different parts of the story you want to tell. With her, you can't even see an inch of leg above her ankle which hides all the beautifully perfected lines and fluidity, and her hijab and baggy top kills all articulation in her neck, arms and torso. Her jetês look terrible because of the ungainly skirt and she seems to drop like a rock out of them. I respect her religion, but there comes a point where you have to choose between mastering your art and making sure people know that you're a good little Muslim girl. Wearing a costume doesn't mean compromising your faith. Religion should mean more than just the clothes you wear.

[@Lisa-hair]

Daisy Chainsaw Well said. couldn't agree more!

[@SF_l35or_]

she doesnt just look white she is white

[@fatimamamumaidabino9806]

Well, for us, covering is a great part of the religion. So yes, wearing a costume could, would mean compromising your religious obligation.

[@shafaqkhan5576]

Fatima Mamu Maidabino too goof

[@toaka5568]

If a girl with a dream tries to do something she love that's great of its own I think she is inspiring because of her attempts not because of her costume But if she would prefer to wear hejap then who we are to keep her from seeking her dream faith doesn't necessary conflict with dreams her talent god or bad you might say she is young not professional What I love about her is her dream and passion and hope how enthusiastic