Dear Sanna - DRAMA!

So I get to do the part! I was very pleased indeed to find out, even if it was just 4 days before the show! Why can they never tell me ahead of time? It feels really good to be chosen for the part, rather than dancing by default.

Unfortunately, something bad happened 2 days before the show. We were showing a "new" (technically refreshed) piece to a newspaper, and there is a big dramatic pas de duex near the end. The girl went into a frightening fall backwards a little too quickly, and her partner scrambled to save her. Not before she hit her head, however and he toppled over her and started screaming in pain. Ice was brought and the ambulance called, and later we found out he dislocated his elbow, out for at least 3 weeks.

At the risk of sounding selfish, this is my partner for the show 2 days later! So after he was carted away in an ambulance, we had an emergency rehearsal to replace him. I am actually very comfortable with his replacement. It is just stressful to make changes so close to the show! We just had the rest of that day and the next to organize everything, and it's not fun dancing with a very nervous partner, either. I want him to be confident so I can feel confident!

Wish me merde...

Janie

Dear Sanna - Catching Up

So we missed a lot during those technical difficulties! I can't believe I haven't blogged since, but the show was just fine. I didn't do that much, like I said, but everything was just fine. The director did laugh about my character role in the beginning (I had to fill in for the girl who was filling in for my more demanding part). Apparently it was clear that I didn't really know what I was doing and the basket in which I was supposed to be carrying the baby and main character looked empty. But that's not really my fault...

Anyway I pretty much jumped right back in. I was in shape for the most part, like I thought, although I did notice jumping was a little difficult after 2 weeks without it.

I didn't miss out on that part the director threatened I might miss, either (it's not that great anyway, but I am cast and I appreciate that). I am doing a nice role in this year's story ballet, too, so what more can I ask for?

Next week we have another performance of the one we did all last year and the day I came back from my trip, and it even looks like I am going to do that big role again! I asked to rehearse today just in case, and the ballet mistress told me it looks much better, even though I have not really physically rehearsed - I guess the mental rehearsals are really paying off. I hope I get to perform and can really make something of it.

Also, we have one random performance of the ballet we took on tour last year, if you remember the one where I had a lot of problems with the other girl I was dancing with. I was uneasy before we knew casting, because I really hate to be taken out of a part, but I also hate working with this girl. I found out yesterday I am doing it. With her, so it will be a headache, but I suppose not doing would also be a headache, so I should at least be happy they chose me and try to take advantage of this opportunity to figure out how to make it work with this girl!

Wish me luck :)

Janie

Hello everyone!

We had log in issues! We are back on track. Thank you for your patience.


Sanna

A Journey Beyond and Back ....

Welcome home Janie!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I missed you! I was waiting to hear from you every day. I knew you would have a lot of fun. What a wonderful experience to travel with your Mom, too. am sure it was bonding and a life long memory of time spent with her.

You can expect reentry challenges. It can be as brief or long as you want. Getting sleep (LISTEN to Stepping to Sleep, sleep program for dancers available on line)

You have tools to use. Practice what I have taught you - to visualize, using EFT and other performance tools. For those of you who dont know what I am referring too. Read through previous posts for info.

Companies can be compassionate. My daughter had foot surgery in may and as she is building her strength the directors has been very understanding. Be patient as you return to your work. These are the moments that make you stronger.

Sanna Carapellotti,MS CHt'
Hypnotherapist for dancers.

Dear Sanna - home, erm, second-home sweet home

Just got back and it was amazing. I saw places more beautiful than I could have ever imagined existed. I felt like I was in a fairytale - it was really magical. And the hotels were by far the nicest I've ever stayed in, each meal more extravagant than the last with unlimited wine and tours of every amazing place booked us solid for the last few weeks. So I have to say I am happy it's over and thrilled to be going back to work tomorrow, even if it will be tough performing my first day back!

Actually the amazing hotels all had gorgeous gyms, often with a view, hardwood floors, mirrors, and a barre, so I happily gave myself a barre, mini center, and rehearsals about 2/3 of the days I was gone, so I don't feel too too out of shape. We did walk a lot, too, but the amount of food was incredible. I'm not sure how much it affected me, however, because after a while I just didn't want anymore. Enough is enough! I think it will be a long time before I want to even think about food from this country again.

I also used down time traveling or insomnia to mentally rehearse, which I think has also prepared me for tomorrow. I have done this show many many times, and I am not even doing the most challenging parts tomorrow (the ballet master kindly gave me a break, understanding this will not be an easy show for me).

So I think I have prepared to the best of my ability - the only thing left to do is get a good night's rest and go for it tomorrow! Wish me luck

Janie