I’m naturally thin and have been living on fast food such as burgers, fries and pizza. Now I’m trying to eat better to prepare for auditions. I know the basics, like choosing good carbs, protein and fat, but it’s hard to make smart choices when I’m grocery shopping. Any ideas? —S.H., New York, NY It’s […]

Why am I scared of success? I’m understudying a lead part in a musical, but my reaction is pure fear. I know other dancers who are envious of this chance. Can you help me conquer my demons? —Cary, Hoboken, NJ Yes, but you’ll need to identify the trigger so you can deal with your fear. […]

How can I prevent injuries when I’m rehearsing new pieces most days and performing them at night? I’ve only been a corps member for a few years, but my body is starting to feel like a bag of bones. —B.C., New York, NY I’m not surprised that a demanding schedule is taxing your body. A […]

Three small dance companies offered me a job. The first wanted to give me good roles without pay until someone left. The second (which I took) pays, although the rep isn’t as good and the studios are in a mall! The last was just a Nutcracker season in a nice company. Sadly, it feels like […]

I plan on moving to New York City this fall to continue my training and freelance work as a dancer/choreographer. A big concern is whether my health insurance will cover my medical needs for asthma. Can you give me any recommendations? —Casey, San Francisco, CA You’re in luck! The new Friedman Health Center for the […]

I took up Latin ballroom over a year ago, and my coach/partner wants me to compete in the Olympics of ballroom dancing— Blackpool in England in May 2018! My problem is that my bunions cause discomfort while dancing for long hours in 3-inch heels. Should I consider surgery to remove them? I don’t want to […]

Thanks to my nutritionist, I’ve started eating right. Now I desperately want to improve my negative body image. My friends tell me I look good, but I don’t believe them. I obsess over every flaw and find class depressing. What should I do? —Crappy Body Image, Hoboken, NJ The best remedy is to shift your […]

Is it safe to do ballet with anteverted hips? And how substance abuse could stunt your career. Do anteverted hips always lead to arthritis? My doctors say I should think about quitting ballet. Are they for real? I’m 22 and have trained in dance since I was 7. That’s my career! —Alisa, Brooklyn, NY I’m […]