
This is Love
The Pointe Shoes
Nov 15, 2023
Ashton Edwards, a ballet enthusiast, defies gender roles in ballet by dancing on pointe. They face challenges but eventually receive a surprising job offer. The chapter explores their passion for dance, reflection on their first performance in the Nutcracker, and changes in policies regarding pointe shoes.
33:15
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Quick takeaways
- Ashton Edwards challenged traditional gender roles in ballet by persisting and dancing both male and female roles on point with the Pacific Northwest Ballet.
- Ashton's journey led to the exploration of new possibilities in ballet, including allowing male dancers to dance on point and reevaluating gendered dress codes, resulting in a more inclusive and supportive training and performance culture at the Pacific Northwest Ballet.
Deep dives
Becoming a male ballet dancer on point
Ashton Edwards, a male ballet dancer, shares their journey of dancing on point, challenging traditional gender roles in ballet. Despite facing discouragement, Ashton persisted and had discussions with the artistic director, Peter Bolle, about joining point classes. Eventually, Ashton was given the opportunity to dance both male and female roles on point with the Pacific Northwest Ballet.
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