Create Your Classwork Video

Classwork videos are a crucial tool for ballet auditions, providing directors with an overview of your technique, artistry, and professionalism when in-person auditions aren’t possible. Whether required as a pre-requisite for live auditions or as an alternative to attending in person, having a polished classwork video ready by November is key to a smooth audition season. For college applicants, aim for even earlier to meet October deadlines.

Here’s everything you need to know to create a standout classwork video.

Why Keep It Simple?

Classwork videos should be short, simple, and focused on showcasing your foundational skills. Directors often skim through these videos, so clarity and consistency are far more important than complexity. Aim for a runtime of about 6 minutes to keep it concise and engaging.

Getting Started

• Follow Company Requirements:
  Many organizations provide specific guidelines for classwork videos. Check their requirements carefully and tailor your video to meet them.

• Use IAP Guidelines as a Standard:
  If no specific guidelines are provided, the IAP (International Audition Preselection) Guidelines are an excellent starting point. These were developed by leading companies and are widely accepted. They recommend including:

• Classical Variation: A short variation of your choice from the standard repertoire.

• Contemporary Variation: A brief piece showcasing contrasting movement, which can be rep, self-choreographed, or another dancer’s work.

• Barre Work (3–5 minutes): Both sides of key exercises like pliés, tendus, and fondus.

• Centre Work (3–5 minutes): Including adagio, pirouettes, petit allegro, and grand allegro.

• Supporting Materials: A CV, headshot, and 2–3 dance photos highlighting your proportions and line.

• Plan Your Best Sides:
  Strategically choose which side to film for each exercise to highlight your strengths. For example, if your left leg is stronger, show adagio on the left and tendus on the right.

Filming Tips

• Angle Matters:

• Side View with a Twist: Film from a slightly off-center angle, lower to the ground, to elongate lines and emphasize turnout.

• Avoid filming straight-on or from above, as these angles can distort lines.

• Variations:

• Your classical variation should showcase strong technique and artistry but doesn’t have to be overly complex.

• Your contemporary variation can be a 1-minute snippet of choreography, either your own or someone else’s. Avoid full-length Prix de Lausanne variations unless you can perform them at a high level, as directors may judge these more critically.

• Take Breaks:
  Spread filming over several days if needed. Fatigue can compromise your performance quality.

• Buddy Up:
  A peer or mentor can assist with camera placement, provide feedback, and streamline the filming process. Alternating filming and dancing with a buddy can also help manage energy levels.

• Film Every Run of Your Variations:
  Even if you're just practicing, record every run. This helps with self-correction and ensures you capture the perfect take when it happens.

Conclusion

Creating a classwork video doesn’t have to be stressful. By sticking to the basics, following the IAP guidelines, and highlighting your strengths, you can create a polished video that leaves a lasting impression. Take your time, plan carefully, and enlist help where needed.

Remember: This is your chance to stand out. A clean, confident performance can open doors to exciting ballet auditions and ballet job opportunities. Good luck!