I have to do a ballet presentation.

Technique Vs. Presentation...the balance and importance?

• I am one of those "late bloomers" in the ballet world so some of my technique is not quite "out of this world" but I have perfect eye-catching presentation, exact rhythm, and I can feel the music and show emotion more than anyone I know. I know that the emotion and presentation are very important, but Technique is also majorly important. I work very hard because ballet is my passion and I hope to teach someday. My question is basically this: does the presentation and emotion and grace mean as much as technique? Not that I want to slack in my technique, but I just want to know how much my natural talent in those areas help me...if that makes sense. :)

• Answer:

  I, personally, believe that they are BOTH equally as important as each other. A dancer can have perfect technique, but lack that engaging, eye catching performance. In reverse, a dancer can have excellent stage presence, but without the technique, the routine looks sloppy. Many people have issues with one or the other, or even both! It is so rare that someone will have stage presence and technique, and of course these people end up in companies and other professional places. The best thing to do is to work hard on your technique. Good luck with the teaching!