Willow

I dance because Mother says I’m her prima ballerina. City Ballet Company? Please. I’m going to New York. Soon I’ll be the youngest professional dancer in American Ballet Theatre. Mother says so.

Rosella

I dance because money won’t buy my spot in City Ballet. I want this so bad I’ll do anything. I get whatever I want.

Dia

I dance to feel beautiful. But all of a sudden I’ve grown. Not taller or fatter. But now I need a big bra and my hips are huge. I have to cover up and hide everything. Otherwise they won’t let me dance anymore. I know it.

Margot

I dance because I always have. What else would I ever do?

Elton

Most guys don’t dance, but I like to. None of my friends get it. Who cares? Ballet makes me strong. Besides, I like hanging out with so many girls.

Clare

I work half an hour at the barre and an hour on the floor, six days a week. I stretch every sinew and sweat from every pore, proving I’m in control. This is our dream: me, my mom, dad, and grandpa’s. We dream that I’ll be a dancer in City Ballet.