Dear Katie: How Can I Keep Up My Dance Training Without Breaking the Bank?

In our “Dear Katie” series, former NYCB soloist Kathryn Morgan answers your pressing dance questions. Have something you want to ask Katie? Email [email protected] for a chance to be featured!

Dear Katie,

I’ve been studying ballet seriously and hope to be a professional dancer. But my family doesn’t have a lot of money, and my parents
recently told me I need to cut down my dance
class schedule. How can I do that without harming my training?

Lily

Dear Lily,

There’s no way around it: Dance training is expensive. But there are ways to help ease the financial burden.

First, many schools will provide financial aid for students who can demonstrate need. Some also have work-study programs that allow students to do things like answer phones at the front desk a few times a week in exchange for free classes. Never be afraid to ask about those options. Talk to an administrator to find out what your school’s aid policy is.

You can also supplement your training outside of the studio for free. There are many videos on YouTube that allow you to take class in your living room. While the internet should never be your only educational source, instructional videos can really help you keep up your technique on days you can’t get to class at a studio.

And make the absolute most out of the classes you do get to take. Keep a notebook and write down all the corrections you hear—whether they’re given to you or a classmate—so you can think about and work on them at home. If the teacher allows it, record yourself during center, so you can analyze the footage later and see how you might address your weak spots.

For more of Katie’s helpful tips and advice, click here.