The Vaganova Method: Ballet for Every Body

When I think about my journey as a ballerina, one name always stands out: Agrippina Vaganova. Her method, often misunderstood and surrounded by myths, became the foundation of my strength, resilience, and love for ballet. Today, I want to share my story, reflect on the beauty of the Vaganova Method, and encourage every adult dancer to embrace this transformative approach to ballet.

The Vaganova Method: More Than Just Russian Precision

The Vaganova Method is often associated with the image of the "ideal" Russian ballerina: tall, thin, with endless legs and lines. But this narrow perception misses the heart of what Agrippina Vaganova truly created. Born in 1879, she was not just a dancer, she was a visionary. She developed a method that was designed to work with all bodies, not just the ones that fit a specific mold.

I know that what I said sounds a bit strange looking at the Vaganova schools today, but we have to go back in time and remember that Agrippina grew up in what, eventually, would become the USSR — where socialism emphasized equality and accessibility.

Vaganova’s method was revolutionary and it was born during the revolution! It wasn’t about creating a single type of dancer; it was about unlocking the potential in every individual. Her approach was deeply technical yet profoundly philosophical. She believed in the power of discipline, the beauty of artistry, and the importance of adaptability.

My Journey as a Vaganova Ballerina

I've always taken Vaganova. And yes, the stories of strict Russian teachers and their relentless demands might be true for some, but what I found was something entirely different. Yes, the training was rigorous, but it was also deeply nurturing. My teachers didn’t just focus on my weaknesses; they celebrated my strengths and taught me how to work with my body, not against it.

Graduating as a Vaganova ballerina was one of the proudest moments of my life. It wasn’t just about mastering the technique — it was about becoming resilient, both physically and mentally. The method taught me how to move with precision, but also how to express emotion through movement, and how to always push through challenges.

Looking back at old videos and pictures, I see not just a dancer but a woman who grew stronger, more confident, and more connected to her body.

A Method for All Bodies

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Vaganova Method is its inclusivity. While today’s ballet world often glorifies a specific body type, Vaganova’s teachings remind us that ballet is for everyone. Her method is built on the idea that every body has its own unique beauty and potential. It’s not about forcing yourself into a mold; it’s about finding your own expression within the technique.

This is why I encourage adult dancers to seek out experienced and good Vaganova teachers — because yes, it's true that some are not that great, maybe a little traumatizing. Whether you’re returning to ballet after years away or starting for the first time, the Vaganova Method offers a structured, thoughtful approach that respects your body and your journey. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about progress, artistry, and joy.

Vaganova: A Philosophical Reflection on Ballet

For me, ballet at its core, is an art form that celebrates the human spirit. It’s about discipline, yes, but also about creativity, expression, and connection. The Vaganova Method embodies this philosophy. It’s not just a set of exercises; it’s a way of thinking, a way of moving, a way of being.

Agrippina Vaganova once said, “The art of ballet requires not only talent but also a great deal of hard work, patience, and love.” These words have stayed with me throughout my journey. They remind me that ballet is not just about the steps; it’s about the heart and soul you bring to them.

So, here’s to Agrippina Vaganova, to her method, and to all the dancers — beginners and professionals — who continue to find strength, resilience, and beauty in this incredible art form. Let’s keep dancing, growing, and inspiring each other.

Ballet is not just for the young or the thin or the “perfect.” It’s for anyone who loves to move, to express, to create.

To all the adult dancers out there: your journey is valid, your body is beautiful, and your love for ballet is enough. Let’s dance together!