Why you, as an expat, should join a ballet class.

When you become an expat in another country, it does not mean you have to stop dancing. On the contrary, because dance is universal.

If you are having second thoughts about joining a ballet class in your guest country, let me give you three reasons why you can and should most definitely join.

Reason number 1: You can join the ballet class, because you already know the ballet terminology.

Firstly, when you practiced the art of ballet and took a little break, it is most certainly possible to pick up where you left off. Becoming an expat does not mean you have to stop dancing. The vocabulary of all the ballet movements, steps and postures are in French and are taught around the world. Where ever you are on our globe, if you learned ballet, you can follow a class in a different country. Therefore, you will be able to understand the exercises and choreography. And do not worry about missing or misunderstanding feedback, I am sure that your teacher will gladly explain it again, or repeat it, because your teacher wants you to enjoy your class.

Reason number 2: You can learn the language of your host country while dancing.

You can get a long way by filtering out the French and copying the movements from the teacher and the other dancers. And you will notice, that when you attend class every week you start to decipher more and more of the language of your host country. Thus learning more than just talking to your colleagues and hearing it on the television.

Reason number 3: Making new friends.

Obviously, you will have something in common with your fellow dancers, namely your interest in ballet. That will make it easier to break the ice and make new friends. You will notice that Dutch people are very open to making new connections, and will welcome you in the group. Almost every Dutch person speaks English. And will provide you with the opportunity to practice your Dutch.

In conclusion, go out there, socialize, enjoy and dance your heart out!

Anne-Marie Pos-Terlouw

Artistic and managing director Balletstudio Violetta/Compagnie Violetta

Member of the International Dance Council, Unesco