The Power Behind the Performance: Why Body Conditioning & Stretching Matter in Dance
Behind every graceful arabesque and effortless grand jeté is a strong, well-conditioned body working in harmony with a flexible, resilient mind. At Bella Academy, we teach our dancers that technique alone isn’t enough—true artistry and injury prevention come from the work you do before you dance. Let’s explore why body conditioning and stretching are essential elements of every dancer’s journey—and how you can incorporate them into your training for long-term success and well-being. Preventing Injuries Before They Happen Dancers demand a lot from their bodies. Without proper conditioning, overuse injuries such as tendonitis, muscle strains, and joint issues can arise—especially as training hours increase. How Conditioning Helps: At Bella Academy, our students begin each class with structured warm-ups and targeted conditioning sequences. These movements, designed to gently activate key muscle groups, serve as the body’s first line of defense against injury. See it in action: Conditioning at the barre Flexibility Fuels Fluidity Stretching isn’t just about high kicks or impressive splits. It’s about unlocking freedom in movement, supporting better posture, and allowing for safer, more expressive dancing. Benefits of Flexibility: Incorporating both dynamic stretching (before class) and static stretching (after class) helps keep the body limber, responsive, and ready for the demands of dance. Watch the flow: Deep stretch work in progress Enhancing Performance & Technique Strong, conditioned dancers move with power, control, and artistry. Whether you’re refining your pirouettes or tackling contemporary choreography, body conditioning enhances every aspect of technique. Technique Gains: Our cross-training approach includes Pilates-inspired floorwork, resistance exercises, and functional training that complements classical technique and prepares dancers for versatility in any style. Consistency is Key: Building a Conditioning Habit Like any other aspect of dance, body conditioning and stretching require commitment and regular practice. Even just 10–15 minutes a day can yield noticeable results over time. Tips to Stay Consistent: The Bella Way: Strong Bodies, Stronger Dancers At Bella Academy, we don’t just train dancers—we build confident, mindful movers. Body conditioning and stretching are not extras—they are part of the foundation that makes great dancers resilient, expressive, and ready for every challenge. We encourage all our students to treat their bodies with the same care and respect they give to their choreography. After all, your body is your instrument—tune it, strengthen it, stretch it, and watch your artistry flourish. Ready to strengthen your foundation? Follow us on Instagram for more conditioning tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and student spotlights. — The Bella Academy Team Explore our world | Follow us on Instagram
Is It Time Yet? Understanding Readiness for Pointe
Not every dancer is ready to start pointe at the same age—and that’s perfectly okay. Most dancers begin preparing between ages 10–13, but readiness depends more on strength, technique, and physical development than age alone. At Bella Academy, students are assessed individually by our experienced instructors. We also consider physical maturity, especially the development of bones and joints in the feet and ankles, to avoid long-term injuries. Interested in starting pointe? Readiness Checklist: Strengthening Exercises to Support Pointe Work Pointe requires strength and control beyond the usual ballet classwork. Our pre-pointe program includes targeted exercises to build the necessary muscle groups safely. Focus Areas: We encourage our students to practice these exercises regularly—at home and in class—with guidance to ensure proper form. Taking Care of Your Feet Your feet are your most important instrument in ballet, and caring for them becomes even more critical when you begin pointe. Foot Care Tips: Selecting Your First Pair of Pointe Shoes When it comes time to be fitted for your first pair, pointe shoe fittings should always be done by a trained fitter. At Bella Academy, we guide our students to a reputable local fitter who understands the unique needs of young dancers. What to Expect: Each dancer’s foot shape is different, and the right shoe helps protect and support the journey ahead. The Bella Academy Approach: Patient, Personal, and Passionate At Bella Academy, we don’t believe in shortcuts when it comes to pointe work. Our instructors are committed to your long-term health and success. Through individualized assessments, strengthening programs, and a nurturing environment, we help each dancer transition to pointe work with confidence and joy. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you or your child is dreaming of dancing en pointe, speak to your teacher about beginning our pre-pointe assessment process. With careful preparation and consistent practice, that magical moment of rising onto pointe will feel even more rewarding. Stay strong. Stay patient. Stay passionate. Your pointe journey is just beginning! With love and encouragement, The Bella Academy TeamExplore our world | Follow us on Instagram
Celebrating Our Stars: Samaira and Anika Javeri Accepted Into the Royal Ballet School’s Prestigious Spring Intensives!
Dear Bella Academy Family, We are overjoyed to share some exciting news with you—two of our exceptional Level 3 students, Samaira and Anika Javeri, have been accepted into the Royal Ballet School’s prestigious Spring Intensives in both London and Hong Kong! This incredible achievement marks a significant milestone in their dance careers and speaks volumes about their talent, dedication, and the outstanding training they have received at Bella Academy. About the Royal Ballet School The Royal Ballet School in London is one of the most renowned and respected dance institutions in the world. With a legacy of producing some of the finest dancers in the ballet world, the school’s rigorous programs are designed to push students to the highest level of technical ability, artistry, and creativity. The Spring Intensives are a highly selective training program offered by the Royal Ballet School to give young dancers a chance to experience professional-level ballet training, with masterclasses, coaching, and performances from top-tier faculty and guest artists. For dancers like Samaira and Anika, being accepted into these prestigious intensives is a testament to their outstanding potential and commitment to their craft. The Spring Intensives offer an invaluable opportunity to work with some of the best professionals in the world and take their training to the next level. The Spring Intensives – A Gateway to Excellence The Spring Intensives are designed for advanced students and provide a focused, immersive environment where young dancers can refine their skills, explore new techniques, and perform in front of top ballet industry professionals. Students who are accepted into the program are selected for their talent, discipline, and promise in ballet. These intensive training sessions are held in two major locations: London and Hong Kong, attracting dancers from all over the world. Being accepted into these Spring Intensives is not just about the chance to learn from the best—it’s about being exposed to a global ballet community and the possibilities that come with it. For Samaira and Anika, this is a golden opportunity to take their craft to international stages and unlock further opportunities in the dance world. Hard Work and Dedication Pay Off Both Samaira and Anika have dedicated countless hours to perfecting their technique, expanding their artistry, and strengthening their resolve. Their incredible work ethic, discipline, and passion for ballet have driven them to reach new heights—and their acceptance into the Royal Ballet School’s Spring Intensives is proof of their hard work and dedication. At Bella Academy, we pride ourselves on providing a nurturing yet challenging environment where our students can excel. With our world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and unwavering commitment to developing each dancer’s full potential, Bella Academy has been integral in shaping Samaira and Anika into the talented dancers they are today. Their success is a reflection of their relentless pursuit of excellence, combined with the support and mentorship they have received from our passionate instructors. A Bright Future Ahead We could not be prouder of Samaira and Anika for this incredible achievement. Their acceptance into the Royal Ballet School’s Spring Intensives is just the beginning of what promises to be a bright and successful future in the world of ballet. Their accomplishment serves as an inspiration to all our students at Bella Academy, showing that with passion, hard work, and dedication, anything is possible. Please join us in congratulating Samaira and Anika Javeri for this remarkable accomplishment. We cannot wait to see all that they will achieve as they continue to pursue their dreams on the international stage! At Bella Academy, we are committed to fostering the growth and development of every dancer, and we are thrilled to see our students reach such incredible heights. For more information on our programs and the exceptional training opportunities we offer, please visit our website. Let’s continue to support and celebrate the success of our talented students, as they continue to take their dance careers to new levels! Warm regards,The Bella Academy Team
A Prestigious Honour: Mrs. Anabelle Appointed ABT Examiner
Celebrating a Defining Milestone for Bella Academy At Bella Academy, we believe in dreams pursued with passion, purpose, and precision. Today, we are filled with immense pride as we celebrate a monumental achievement—our Founder and Director, Mrs. Anabelle, has been officially appointed as an Examiner by American Ballet Theatre (ABT), one of the most revered institutions in the world of classical ballet. This extraordinary honour is awarded to only a select group of seasoned professionals across the globe. To be named an ABT Examiner is a recognition of not just technical mastery, but also of a lifelong commitment to ballet education, mentorship, and artistic integrity. Mrs. Anabelle now joins a rare and distinguished group of experts entrusted with upholding the standards of excellence in ballet training worldwide. “It is truly a dream come true! I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the people I’ve admired deeply throughout my journey with ABT—first as a student, then as a teacher, and now as an examiner. I’m thrilled to share my experience with young dancers across the globe through examinations and master classes.” – Mrs. Anabelle From her early days as a student of ABT to her years of teaching and inspiring the next generation of dancers, Mrs. Anabelle’s journey has been defined by perseverance, artistry, and an unwavering dedication to nurturing talent. Her leadership at Bella Academy has shaped our studio into a space where discipline meets joy, and where every student is empowered to grow not just as a dancer, but as an individual. This new chapter is not only a personal milestone for Mrs. Anabelle, but also a proud moment for all of us at Bella Academy. Her success reflects the high standards we hold in our training programs and reaffirms our commitment to offering world-class ballet education right here in Mumbai. Please join us in celebrating this historic moment in Bella Academy’s story—a moment that reminds us all of the heights that can be reached with vision, passion, and grace. With pride,The Bella Academy TeamExplore our world | Follow us on Instagram
Celebrating Our Dancers’ Success at the ABT Exams
At Bella Academy, we are beaming with pride as we reflect on the recent American Ballet Theatre (ABT) exams, where our talented student dancers showcased their dedication, skill, and passion for ballet. The exams were a culmination of months of hard work, countless hours of practice, and the unwavering commitment of both the dancers and our exceptional faculty. The Journey to the Exams Preparing for the ABT exams was no small feat. Our ballerinas devoted themselves to rigorous training, perfecting their technique, and building their artistry. With regular classes, intensive rehearsals, and specialized masterclasses, they honed their skills and developed the poise and precision required for such a prestigious evaluation. A highlight of the preparation process was the opportunity for students to learn from industry-leading faculty, who brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the studio. Our trainers worked tirelessly, guiding each dancer through the fine details of their technique, instilling confidence, and nurturing their artistic expression. The ABT Exam Experience The ABT exams are a prestigious benchmark in the ballet world. They follow the internationally recognized ABT National Training Curriculum (NTC), which emphasizes proper technique, musicality, and a thorough understanding of classical ballet principles. The exams offer students a chance to demonstrate their skills before esteemed evaluators, receiving feedback that is invaluable for their growth and development. We were honored to have the exams led by the remarkable Harriet Clark. With an impressive career spanning both performance and teaching, Ms. Clark brought a level of expertise and professionalism that inspired and motivated our dancers.Her credentials include: Proud Moments and Outstanding Performances The exams were a tremendous success, thanks to the diligence and dedication of the entire Bella Academy team. From the faculty trainers who meticulously prepared the dancers to the support staff who ensured everything ran smoothly, the collaboration and passion were evident. We are incredibly proud of our ballerinas for their grace, determination, and poise under pressure. Their commitment to their craft shone through in their performances, making this year’s ABT exams a truly memorable experience. Looking Ahead As we celebrate this milestone, we are inspired by the growth and artistry of our dancers. Their dedication to their training is a testament to their love for ballet and their desire to excel. We look forward to continuing to support their journey, fostering their talent, and watching them flourish in future performances and examinations. Congratulations to all our dancers—you have made Bella Academy immensely proud!
Bella Academy’s 15th Annual Production: Swan Lake – A Magical Ballet Performance for All Ages
Dear Bella Academy Parents, We are beyond excited to announce the upcoming highlight of Bella Academy’s calendar—the 15th Annual Production of Swan Lake! This year, our talented students will bring the timeless classic to life on stage, and we would love for you to be there to witness the magic. This cherished tradition continues to showcase the dedication, hard work, and talent of our young dancers. The performance will take place on April 3rd and 4th, 2025, and will feature students ranging in age from 6 to 18 years old. It’s a show you won’t want to miss! About Swan Lake – A Timeless Ballet Classic Originally composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Swan Lake premiered in 1877 and has since become one of the most beloved and iconic ballets in the world. The story is a beautiful blend of romance, magic, and mystery, revolving around the tragic tale of Princess Odette, who has been transformed into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse. The ballet explores themes of love, transformation, and the battle between good and evil. The grandeur of Swan Lake has captivated audiences for generations, and this year, our talented dancers will bring the mesmerizing choreography, dramatic storytelling, and enchanting music to life. Through their dedication, our students have trained tirelessly to portray the stunning narrative of the swan princess and her trials, a performance that will leave you in awe. Why You Should Be There We invite you, as parents, to celebrate your child’s hard work, passion, and perseverance by attending this magnificent event. This is an incredible opportunity for your young dancer to shine on stage, and your support will mean the world to them. The performance will showcase a variety of roles, and we are incredibly proud of every student who will be part of this production. As always, we expect tickets to sell out quickly—Swan Lake is one of our most anticipated events of the year! To ensure you can watch your child perform, we urge you to purchase your tickets as soon as possible. Passes are limited, and once they’re gone, we won’t be able to accommodate additional requests. How to Secure Your Passes To avoid missing out on this magical experience, please reach out to us at admin@bellaacademy.in to get your passes today. Our team is ready to assist you and ensure you can secure the best seats in the house for you and your family. More About Bella Academy Bella Academy has been a cornerstone of dance education for over a decade. We are committed to nurturing and empowering young dancers through a blend of traditional techniques and contemporary approaches. Our state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty provide a supportive and inspiring environment for our students to grow and reach their full potential. You can learn more about Bella Academy and our programs by visiting our official website. We can’t wait to see you at the performance and share in the excitement of Bella Academy’s 15th Annual Production of Swan Lake. It will be a night filled with grace, beauty, and unforgettable memories. Thank you for supporting your child’s dance journey, and we look forward to celebrating with you this April! Warm regards,The Bella Academy Team Read More from our Parents Dear Bella Academy, Both my husband and I have been completely overwhelmed — in the best way — which is why it has taken us nearly a week to write in. The production was truly spectacular — from the dancers to the costumes to the sets. Thank you so much for giving Saanvi the opportunity to perform and for entrusting her with such wonderful roles. We’ve noticed a remarkable transformation in her since last year’s performance. Then, we saw nervousness, anxiety, and focus. This year, we saw pure joy, playfulness, and a deep love for dance. It was, without a doubt, one of our most memorable nights of the year. With gratitude, Anju & Abhyudaya Morarka Dear Bella Team, With heartfelt thanks. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the entire ballet team for such a truly magical and moving performance. It was a joy to watch the dancers bring the stage to life with such grace, strength, and emotion. Every detail—from the choreography and music to the costumes and lighting—was thoughtfully crafted and beautifully executed. More than just the performance, we are especially thankful for the care and dedication you pour into each rehearsal, every lesson, and every dancer. Being part of this production has been a meaningful and enriching experience for our child, and we are so grateful they get to learn and grow in such an inspiring environment. Thank you for sharing your passion and for creating a space where young artists can thrive. It means the world to our family to be part of this incredible community. With heartfelt gratitude, Aliasgar Dalal F/O Inaaya Dalal 2B Dear Miss Anabelle and the entire team of Bella Academy, Heartiest congratulations on putting up a magical show which transported us to a world of fairy tales. The entire production was mesmerising and the girls were so confident and beautiful in their amazing costumes. The presentation was nothing less than a professional play! We the proud parents of Inaaya Pruthi, extend our thanks and appreciate the team effort and hard work that went into making the production a grand success! Kudos to you all! With best regards, Isha and Anurag Parents of Inaaya Pruthi Dear Ms. Anabelle and team, Amit and I wanted to congratulate you on the most marvelous performance – the skill, rigour and intent shined through. Swan Lake is a classic and you all did complete justice to it – we were all so engrossed and thoroughly enjoyed the performance. Congratulations, again! Thank you for all your effort with the girls. Our best, Naina and Amit Dear Team Bella, The production ‘Swan Lake’ was nothing short of magical. Thank you so much for inspiring our children to move with so much grace and confidence. We really
Naira’s Ballet Journey: From Mumbai to London
Naira’s Ballet Journey: From Mumbai to London As Naira embarks on her journey from Mumbai to London, the air is thick with anticipation and excitement. Today marks a significant milestone in her ballet career, one that she has worked tirelessly for and dreamed about for as long as she can remember. As she takes this bold step into a new world of possibilities, her heart is filled with hope, determination, and the unwavering support of those she leaves behind. A Dream in Motion From her earliest memories, Naira has been enchanted by the world of ballet. Growing up in Mumbai, she found solace and joy in dance, discovering a language that allowed her to express emotions words could not capture. Her passion for ballet ignited a flame within her, leading her to train diligently at Bella Academy, often spending countless hours perfecting her technique. The beauty of ballet captivated her, and she longed to share that beauty on a global stage. Through perseverance and hard work, Naira has achieved remarkable milestones in her young career. She has performed in numerous local productions, earning accolades and the admiration of her peers and mentors. Each performance solidified her love for the art, but deep down, she always knew that there was more waiting for her beyond the borders of her beloved city. The Journey Ahead As Naira boards her flight to London, she carries with her the hopes and dreams not only of herself but also of her family, friends, and mentors who have cheered her on every step of the way. Her departure signifies not just a physical move but a leap of faith into a world teeming with opportunities and challenges. In London, Naira will have the chance to study with some of the finest ballet instructors, immersing herself in a vibrant dance community that celebrates both tradition and innovation. The city’s rich cultural landscape, filled with world-class performances and diverse styles, will provide her with invaluable experiences that will shape her artistry and refine her technique. The Power of Belief As she embarks on this new chapter, Naira is reminded of the words that have resonated with her throughout her journey: “Faith makes things possible, Hope makes things work, and Love makes things beautiful.” These powerful sentiments encapsulate the essence of her ballet journey, guiding her as she navigates the challenges ahead. Faith will be her anchor, empowering her to believe in her abilities even when faced with setbacks. Hope will fuel her determination, reminding her that every step she takes, no matter how small, brings her closer to her dreams. And above all, love—love for dance, love for herself, and the love of those who support her—will shine through, illuminating her path and inspiring her to keep reaching for the stars. A Community of Support As Naira takes this monumental step, she carries with her the unwavering support of her Bella Academy community. Her family, friends, and mentors have poured their hearts into nurturing her talent, instilling in her the values of hard work and dedication. They believe in her dreams as fiercely as she does, reminding her that she is never alone in this journey. With each pirouette, leap, and grand jeté, Naira will be performing not just for herself but for everyone who has believed in her. Their encouragement will resonate in her heart, providing her with the strength to overcome any obstacles she may encounter along the way. Looking Forward This is just the beginning for Naira. As she embarks on her journey in London, she will undoubtedly face challenges, but she will also experience the joy of growth, learning, and transformation. With every step she takes, she will continue to shine brightly, embodying the magic of dance and the unwavering belief that dreams can indeed become reality. Naira, as you set off on this incredible adventure, know that we are all rooting for you. Keep dancing, keep believing, and let your light shine!
Bella Academy Celebrates 15 Years
As we celebrate our 15th anniversary, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your support throughout this remarkable journey. Over the past decade and a half, we have continuously refined our curriculum to ensure that our students receive the highest standard of ballet education while building a thriving community along the way. We are proud to be the only school in India—and among the few globally—to offer training and certification from all three of the world’s most recognized examining boards: the Royal Ballet School London, the American Ballet Theatre New York, and the Royal Academy of Dance London. This achievement is not just a testament to our dedication, but a reflection of the hard work and passion that your children bring to the studio every day. Together, we are creating a vibrant community that nurtures talent, fosters creativity, and instills a lifelong love for dance. Thank you for being such an integral part of the Bella Academy family. Your involvement and encouragement are vital to our students’ success and growth. Here’s to many more years of dance, inspiration, and community!
A New Era of Dance with Rambert Grades
We are thrilled to announce that Bella Academy is now an officially authorized teaching center for Rambert Grades! This contemporary dance syllabus, developed in partnership with Rambert and the Rambert School, represents a significant step forward for our young dancers, offering them an enriching and structured pathway to develop their skills and express their creativity. Embracing Individuality and Creativity At Bella Academy, we believe that dance is not just about mastering technique; it’s about nurturing individuality and fostering creativity. The Rambert Grades syllabus spans eleven levels, encouraging students to explore their unique movement styles while honing their technical prowess. This dual focus ensures that dancers not only learn the fundamentals of dance but also find their own artistic voice. As students progress through the grades, they will engage in a diverse range of activities that challenge and inspire them. From material creation to improvisation, the syllabus is designed to encourage exploration and experimentation. Our young dancers will learn to think critically about their movement and performance, pushing boundaries while building confidence in their abilities. Mastering Technique and Performance Skills One of the most exciting aspects of the Rambert Grades is its comprehensive approach to technical excellence. Students will work on various elements, including floorwork, intricate choreography, and complex leaps, ensuring they develop a well-rounded skill set. This rigorous training not only prepares them for performances but also instills a sense of discipline and dedication that extends beyond the dance studio. Furthermore, students will have the unique opportunity to perform solo pieces by renowned choreographers Hofesh Shechter and Alesandra Seutin. This exposure to professional choreography allows our dancers to interpret and embody the vision of leading artists, enhancing their understanding of performance and artistry. A Recognized Pathway The Rambert Grades are recognized by Ofqual, providing our students with a prestigious pathway that can lead to further education and professional opportunities in dance. This accreditation adds a layer of credibility to the hard work and dedication our dancers put into their training. It also opens doors for them to pursue advanced qualifications, scholarships, and even careers in the performing arts. At Bella Academy, we are committed to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment where young dancers can thrive. Our instructors are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience, guiding each student through their journey in dance. The Rambert Grades will further enhance our curriculum, providing our dancers with a clear and exciting pathway to success. Join Us on This Exciting Journey As we embark on this new chapter with Rambert Grades, we invite current and prospective students to join us in embracing the joy of dance. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, this program offers a unique opportunity to grow, learn, and express yourself through movement. At Bella Academy, we celebrate the transformative power of dance, and we are excited to see our students flourish as they engage with this innovative syllabus. Together, let’s unlock the potential of every dancer and pave the way for their future in the world of contemporary dance! For more information about enrolling in our Rambert Grades program or to learn about our upcoming classes, please visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s dance towards a bright future together!
