Ruibi

Lovely Ruibi has been studying Ballet with us for 3 years and although she likes her pink ballet shoes and tights, she absolutely loves her new tights and shoes that represent her own skin tone. We have taken the opportunity to explore the range of tones that exist in ballet tights, socks and shoes. Dance wear manufacturers are beginning to produce ballet wear in a range of skin tones and the greater the demand for these products, the better and more widely available the ranges will be for us to purchase. Willows Dance Company celebrates diversity and believe ballet is for everyone. We want to make sure our dancers feel encouraged and supported in wearing ballet uniform that makes them feel confident.

“Ruibi has been a ballet student for 3 years and although she loves her pink ballet shoes to know that there are now ballet shoes and tights that represent her own skin tone is amazing. Willows Dance Company have been instrumental in encouraging diversity and took the opportunity to explore the range of tones that exist. Willows, you are inspirational and are truly spearheading change for little girls of colour not just in words but action. Until recently, professional ballet dancers of colour have had to colour their own shoes to match their own skin, a process called  ‘pancaking’ as your shoes should be seamless to your skin colour. Ruibi is so thankful and lucky to have Anna, Molly and Maddy as her dance teachers taking her through her journey in dance.”