Okay but not gonna lie, 5:26 actually cracks me up lol. Thank you SO MUCH for supporting this journey. I hesitate to share these parts of my story because I never want it to come off as complaining “woe is me! The internet sucks!” But I also want to be as honest as I can about the ups and downs of it all, and on days like these, your kindness and support help in ways you don’t even know. 💕 Sending love for whatever journey you’re on 🥰 thanks for being here. 🩰 P.S. we’re so close to 5k so if you haven’t subscribed, please consider it!
You are amazing and inspiring, and as a Latin American young woman starting ballet, I relate a lot with your content. I find you're brilliant and I know well get through this. Uwu
I was a ballet dancer and am a teacher, and I have so much respect and admiration for people who start ballet as adults. I started when I was 3, so I have no idea how it is to learn the language of ballet as an adult. I recognize that if we want to try writing or painting or drawing, we can do that in private where nobody has to see or hear the results if we don't like them. But with dance--you have to put yourself in front of other people to learn. I tell my adult students--I make no assumptions about why they want to dance, because whether it's recreational or they have professional aspirations, we all want to be taught to our highest potential and for love of art. A big part of the ballet world's toxicity lies in how judgmental it historically and collectively has been. I tell my students of all ages--if you see a dancer who is better than you, rather than envy, see what you can learn. If you see a dancer who is less experienced with you, you can encourage your own growth by encouraging their growth. Artists should recognize and support artists at all stages of their journey.
your students are extremely lucky to have a teacher like you. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and for helping guide people to their highest potential no matter their age 💕
I’m so relieved that you’re not letting the online cruelty stop you from making these videos and continuing on your ballerina journey. Your work ethic, sparkly personality and fresh approach to life are truly inspiring. Keep it up, you got this!!
I watched a series called "Nabillera," which tells the story of a man (70 year old) who harbored a childhood dream of becoming a ballerina. However, his family faced financial constraints, and the societal norms of that era did not accept men pursuing ballet. As he grew up, got married, had children, and even became a grandparent, the series delved into the challenges and obstacles one might encounter in life. Despite the adversity he faced, the series underscores the message that one should never give up on their dreams. This resonates with my own aspirations, as I am currently in my final year of engineering studies and am eager to work and save money to pursue a future in the field of plastic arts.
@@VeronicaViccora If you enjoy something, what others think doesn't matter, and you should be proud of yourself because 99.99% don't even know what they want. You know what you want, and you are pursuing your dream 🤍
You are a brave person. There are so many people who wish they had the courage to start taking ballet as an adult. A lot of people get jealous of that. I had the same type of experience. I was working as a nanny for a family with two lovely children, and the little girl took ballet classes. I also dreamed of becoming a ballerina, but grew up poor and didn't have access to the types of dance classes I wanted to take. I did take dance classes for 2 years but the studio was not serious at all and they didn't even teach real ballet. Not too mention after those two years my family couldn't afford it anymore. But one day as I was dropping off the little girl I took care of at her ballet class I got up the courage to ask her teacher if the studio had an adult class for beginners. I was so nervous, but more excited than anything. I felt like a little kid also I rushed into class with such excitement. Unfortunately, after taking one class I was convinced that my posture is pretty bad and I couldn't seem to correct it. The teacher really had no patience for me and would scream at me with frustration. I remember trying so hard to stop the tears from coming out my eyes but they just kept coming. I didn't want to take up time from the other dancers in the class, so I stopped going, feeling completely defeated and embarrassed. I really hate how so many people gate keep ballet as if certain people shouldn't be given the opportunity to learn based on their age or lack of experience. Anyway I admire you for having the confidence to do what I wish I could have continued doing. You are an inspiration. Best of luck with your ballet journey. Please don't let the haters get you down. ❤
OMG I understand this so well and I'm SO sorry. It's true, some people really have this attitude like you should just ALREADY have the information and be able to read their mind. What a ridiculous way to treat someone who obviously had so much passion and enthusiasm. Best of luck to you too, I'm not sure if you're dancing again but I hope you'll find a way to give it another shot if not!
I felt this with every ounce of my being. "to spend your whole life watching other people live the dream that you so desperately long for but are not allowed to do because you were born wrong or not in the financial class." It's so painful to watch someone else live that dream and to want it, dream of doing it, and just not having a way in. You want to be happy for them but you're also just sad for yourself. It's hard but you know what, I love that you're chasing your dreams and I'm doing the same thing slowly but surely. Baby steps are still steps and one day I'll get there. Thank you for sharing
At the same time that a lot of us will never understand the time and sacrifice that goes into these ballet dancers you're talking about at 8:40 (ish), a lot of them will never understand people who never got such opportunities. So keep going and don't let this nonsense from internet cowards hold you back! :) I have so much respect for you.
You have no idea how much your kindness and encouragement helps me, thank you so much. As cruel as the internet can be, it also connects me with people like yourself and for that I'm very grateful
Actually you were targeted and bullied because you dared to break the "rules" and the norm. And yes, it's also about money and class. I've danced ballet (and other dance forms) on and off all my life. The hardest part was finding teachers willing to take me (for classical ballet). Eventually, in my 40s I got lucky several years in a row having enough money AND access to classes long enough to complete several international ballet exams. But the teachers didn't want to teach me beyond a certain level because they were scared I would become "competition" by offering classes (I live in a small town and none of the teachers here were ever professional dancers themselves). So the first one came up with an excuse for not allowing me into her advanced class anymore. Then I found another teacher but once I got to a certain level she also came up with all kinds of excuses not to train me properly any more... it was sooooo frustrating. Then covid hit and I lost my business, and I had to struggle so hard as a single mom to take care of my daughter, there was no chance to dance anymore. Trying to start from scratch again just seems too much. I miss dancing (and my ballet classes so much). Thank you for standing up for us adult dancers. Don't let anyone stop you. Also you HAVE talent! It's obvious. Anyone can see. They wouldn't need to bully you if you didn't.
WOW this is a truly incredible story and honestly, something I hear so few people talking about but it's very real! People is positions of authority over us can totally misuse their power when they feel threatened, just one of many reasons why we have to take everything with a grain of salt. Also thank you so much for your vulnerability and kind words, sounds like you're very talented and I'm hoping you'll be able to find a new way to dance!
@@VeronicaViccora Thank you for your kind and encouraging reply. I am slowly dancing at home again... I just don't feel like myself unless I dance ballet regularly. I think you may know exactly what I'm talking about. Good luck on your journey!
Unfortunately, it’s not just a ballet thing; I have met countless musicians who didn’t start playing their primary instruments until they were in high school and some of them went on to be professionals and others still play for fun. In the Classical Music world, it is also looked down upon if you start late; I went to college with an Oboist that took her 20 years to get her Associates degree and I also went to college with an older gentleman in his 70’s who was a retired math teacher and after he retired, he went back to school to study composition. Don’t listen to the haters and keep doing you!
I relate to this so much. I used to be a ballet dancer when I was younger, and I wanted to pursue it but my parents couldn't find classes when we made a big move. So the ballerina in me became dormant. Found a hip hop class, but it wasn't for me, because at heart, I'm a classical dancer. I discovered an Indian classical dance form called Bharatnatyam when I was 16, and I've never looked back. I am 20 now, and sometimes I compare myself to dancers who have been dancing that particular art form since they were really young. But I am enjoying the journey. It's been four years, and I've made so much progress than I ever thought was possible. Thank you for this video. The passion and desire to dance is what keeps us going.
This is such a beautiful story!! Thank you for sharing this! It’s wonderful that you never gave up and found something that resonates with you even though it wasn’t what you initially wanted. Life is funny that way and it’s really admirable that you stayed open minded and hard working. Best of luck on your journey and keep me posted! 💕
I love Indian dance styles, they're so beautiful! My mum saw an ad for a Bollywood dance class and for some reason thought I needed to try it. I was very depressed at the time. After a few weeks I built up the courage to go and instantly loved it. I went for several years and performed at local festivals, weddings and even danced on a catwalk once to showcase the work of an Indian designer! It was a mixture of different Indian dance styles. I have huge respect for Indian classical dancers because it looks insanely hard and beautiful. I absolutely love the costumes too.
I am a ballet teacher, and it did not even enter my head that you're single handedly destroying the ballet world from watching that video. How ridiculous that people are so insecure that they would make all those cruel comments. I think you're amazing, I just found your channel today and I am really enjoying it. There are many many talented people that just never had the opportunity or the funds. Why not enjoy ballet as an adult? It's a beautiful art form and not just there for the elite. I know it doesn't help to say take no notice of them, it does hurt and I'm sorry for that. Please keep it up though, you are inspiring a lot of people. ❤
The ballet community is definitely a tough one. It's one of the most precise forms of dance and one of the few forms of art that has a measurably "right" and "wrong" way of doing it. You're going to have a really hard time convincing people who love ballet that imperfection is ok; for many imperfection is the antithesis of what ballet is and stands for as a "higher art form." That being said, I commend you for how hard you work to pursue ballet. As someone who had to give up ballet years ago because my family could not afford it, I completely understand the heartbreak of watching other people pursue ballet from the sidelines. It is incredibly hard physically and requires an insane amount of passion to even take classes, let alone giving up as much as you have. It is an extremely precise skill that is hard earned in a way many other dance styles or sports are not, which is why many people feel so passionate about it both in class and behind the keyboard. Some advice that you are welcome to take or leave: ballet dancers and ballet lovers are generally as precise, and at times, as unforgiving as the art. The term "ballerina" is usually reserved in the ballet community for the best ballet dancers in the company; usually people call themselves "ballet dancers", even if they've been dancing for decades. Ballet companies have titles for their internal rankings and positions and "ballerina" is generally reserved for the top of that totem pole, if it's even used at all. Also, the ballet core class you took did look like a fun dance class, but was not a class that contained only ballet. You're welcome to define things and yourself however you want, but calling yourself a "ballet dancer" and referring to classes as "ballet classes" only when they contain strictly ballet may alleviate some of the online comments. Just know that even though you're allowed to define yourself and what you're doing however you want, generally people who love something as precise as ballet aren't super open to new definitions and will make that known. What you're doing is admirable and I hope you keep going! Ballet is an incredible art form that you clearly love. The ballet community is nitpicky and not the nicest at times, but I think you should keep going if you were willing to work as many jobs as you have to take classes. A love like that comes once in a lifetime. Sending you lots of love 💕💕
I was totally into the Ballet Core class, I totally got it. It was like how jazz goes off, or as if Flash Dance did a performant I’ve ballet combo. Gees.
Perplexed by the bullying. I got the jist of that class -- letting go -- but also, have people never seen any sort of contemporary dance? Jeez. You're amazing and a gerogeous dancer!
I surely wented to start classical dance at young age. But unfortunately ballet wasnt known . There wasnt ballet a all. Soooo I started at 28 years as a beginning dancer. And this years I'm trying to audition for dance program in university. And its so HARD because I'm working full time job but I don- t have money to take more class. I don't think I'm good enough. But I'll try my hardest because I love this and and I want to take more seriously in full time program. Regardless of what my dance instructors think or my relatives.
You're clearly very very brave and we could all learn a thing or two from you. Just know that whatever happens on your journey, you're inspiring people, even if there are those who want to tear you down
I am SO GLAD I found your channel. I also started ballet "late" and your whole speech about not giving up made me tear up in the best way possible. Thank you amazing human
Keep going babe!! I’m 27 and have always wanted to do ballet. My mom was a ballerina and always admired that about her. You inspire me to sign up for my first class (:
I really appreciate you sharing your story. I have been so inspired to try dance again after watching your videos. I think you have made a space for adults to try again or try for the first time.
Thank you for showing such kindness and understanding toward even those seeking harm. Your art form is beautiful and inspiring as is your mindset and compassion. Please continue to share your amazing journey of passion and putting positivity and love into the world in the face of obstacles and adversity. 🩰
You have incredible flexibility (splits, long reaches) not to mention a very natural feel for music. Forget the mean people. Their comments are a reflection of themselves, not you.
8:01 First of all - ballet isn't a finite resource 😂 there's plenty of training and dancing to go around. Ballet has so much elitism and gate keeping that is unfair to adults like us who didn't grow up with the privledges to study dance as kiddos - especially if we realized as kids we wanted it and couldn't have it for whatever reason. Your journey is so cool!
First ballet core seems so much fun and I want to do it now! Second, you are a dancer! Those bullies are reflecting their own fears on to you. No one can ruin the art form of dance except maybe those companies that put models into pointe shoes instead of hiring dancers, they are the worst. My point is that you can tell how much you love it and that makes you a beautiful addition to the dance world. I came to NYC to pursue dance and it was hard and I was so scared to put my dancing online to be judge. So what you did took guts and I love it. It makes me want to show my dancing videos too. Also when I was 20 I was told that I was too old and there wasn’t videos of dancers who were older and pursuing it. Your videos will inspire those now 17, 20, 35, 50 years old people who always wanted to dance but didn’t see how they could and now they can watch your videos. Anyway, thank you for sharing and haters going to hate. Haha.
Girl, never ever listen to those hate comments. When i was watching that video i was litterly like ' omg your so good'. And your really my inspiration.❤
You were just having fun. It makes me very happy to see people enjoying what they do! You’re very cute and inspirational, Veronica. Keep going! You are doing an amazing job. Don’t listen to the negativity. Focus on the positive! You have so much to be grateful for, and you are living most people’s dream life.
That white dress is so beautiful!! THANK YOU for that lovely shout out!!! OMG 😫😫😫😫 my heart is literally melted, what an amazing connection the universe brought us together at the right time 💖💖💖
I love this so much, and thank you for putting yourself in a position like this so we could connect. (if that makes sense) I have so much respect for you, and that you’re trying to do this, please don’t give up. I’m in a similar situation. I started dancing two years ago, but of course i’m surrounded by others so much better than me. I’m trying out new classes next week, and i’m scared out of my mind. This made me feel better knowing i’m not alone. thank you.
That's AMAZING! Thank you so much for all your kind words. Being scared is normal, but it's the courage you have to do it anyway that's really inspiring and rare. Keep me posted on your journey. I want to be able to support you too
Girl, listen. Don't give up. I'm 16 and I wanted to start doing ballet but I thought I was too old for it. Your videos doing what you like inspired me to not care about my age and start doing ballet because I love it so much. I just was afraid of being the only one starting at this age and you helped me not feel alone.
Words can't even express how grateful I am of you and your story! You are truly inspiring. I don't normally comment but I found your video about "it not being too late" and it just inspired me to a degree I've never felt before. Ive been learning how to sing on my own and I completely understand your frustrations especially about people not understanding and taking things so seriously and being rude. As the stranger I am on the internet I want to comment and tell you please keep going!!! Follow your dreams. I believe in you!!!.
I feel so sorry that you had to go through this, especially during a difficult time in your personal life... But I really admire that you try to see humans behind the hateful comments, humans that were hurt in the past. That says so much about your character. I'm glad that you didn't let the negativity stop you. Best of luck on your journey!
Thanks so much love, it's people like you that I want to focus on because like I said, it's not surprising that people will say hateful things, but for someone like yourself to take time out of your day to share something kind, that's pretty incredible. Thank you so much for all your support
Hey Veronica, just want to say how much I admire you. I'm 33 and I'm also a late starter in my field. It can feel demoralizing having to work with much younger people (especially when I was a teacher teaching kids their age in my previous life), who don't know much about the randomness of life.. trust me. It doesn't go as planned for most people. I'm so proud of you for being so courageous. It's your life. Worst thing is to look back at the end of your life and regret not having even tried. Do you :)
This is exactly why you need to keep going because it’s never a good thing to keep exclusive things exclusive. Ballet is amazing but it needs a modern makeover to have more diversity and inclusion. And you are just a beginner and doing amazing! Much farther along than a child beginner would be, so in a couple years, all those commenters will probably be eating crow… Also, they probably just did the opposite of what they wanted to do by giving your channel a boost. I think you are beautiful and your passion shows when you dance. You can laugh at yourself but you don’t need to!!! Nothing funny or embarrassing about your performance in dance class. You did great and looked adorable❤
Keep pursuing your dreams and don’t listen to anyone else! Thank you for sharing your journey and message. It’s so important for people to hear. I started pursuing ballet professionally at 23 and if I would have listened to everyone telling me I shouldn’t, I wouldn’t have done it! I’m now on the other side as a professional dancer ❤ you can do this!
That is REALLY encouraging and I’m very curious to hear more about your story! I’m collecting some interviews to share on my blog in 2024. If you’d be willing to share more of your story, please email me at hello@veronicaviccora.com - I think it could inspire a ton of people 💕
Absolutely!!! You never know what life has in store for you, things don’t always go the way we’d hope, but I believe it’s always worth trying your best. thank you for being here💕
I just want to say how beautiful you are, both inside and out. Watching your videos bring me so much comfort, I recently started adult ballet classes and watching someone else go through a similar experience to me makes this journey a lot less scary aha, ily and can't wait for more videos!🫶
this is so so kind of you thank you! I'm so glad we can encourage each other and I'm SO excited to know that you're gifting yourself the most beautiful art of dance
I’m sorry that sharing your journey with us has put you in such a vulnerable position to people who don’t understand it, but I’m grateful you’ve done it. I’m writing this during a break at my ballet studio. It’s my third week coming to class and you played a huge part on me finally deciding to actually come to classes. It took me a few months to get over the fear and anxiety of simply showing up to the studio, but I’m here now and I’m doing everything I can to get better everyday. You’ve provided me with the liberty of taking my aspirations seriously. So thank you, and I hope you can always find the strength to keep going with yours too ♥️
WOW! that's AMAZING! I'm so honored by your incredibly kind words but that's all you love! Deciding to do something so vulnerable as showing up and dancing in front of strangers for the first time is a difficult choice but you did it, and you're doing it. That says A LOT about your character.
haters gonna hate no matter what you do... that indeed wasn't ballet but contemporary dance and you executed it really well. Those comments come from frustrated people with no life
100% being an adult trying to learn a skill so hard... I'm doing ballet and kickboxing and muay thai...I'm doing it for my little self she couldn't do that so now im so proud that I can do it 🖤
i think if it was named : ballet core, dancers might assume that people were only there for the aesthetic since it became a trend? when they were really here to dance with no judgement (which can not really be done since comments on tiktok are full of judgement so that's ironic) - there's even an instagram page about models posing as ballet dancers for clothing advertisement that straight up says they should hire dancers cause models might injure themselves doing poses they can't actually achieve without training (it's a whole thing!)
I know that these sort of comments can be really discouraging and can make you question your worth and validity as a dancer. But it is precisely this same hatred that stops people from pursuing their dreams even at a young age. I know people who had such a love for dance and ballet but gave it up due to the toxicity and endless comments that they just aren’t “good enough” or “thin enough”. There will always be those out there who make themselves feel better when they put others down. But it is due to insecurity and not based in truth. Anyone can learn anything at any time. We may never be as good as someone else but it is enough to simply have a passion for this art form. It is why we do most of the things we do. If everyone simply quit because they weren’t best of the best at it, no one would do anything. We cook without being world renowned chefs, we read without being literary scholars. We dance without being professionals. I think it is beautiful that you are being so vulnerable and transparent about a dream you have had forever. It is NOT too late to start something new. There is a whole lot of life left to live and I would like to look back and know that I followed my dreams no matter how crazy, than say I gave up because someone said I wasn’t worthy of it. Please keep going! You have inspired me in so many ways and I know you inspire so many others. 💕🩰
Dear ballerina… you re a really wisdom woman. Thanks to the universe for meet you in the right time for me. You are like a 19th beauty, elegant and sophisticated. Never never give up ♾✨ this type of behaviour is part of the human being as you said. Nothing else matters.
Sorry to hear about all the stupid messages you received. I tend to think of people like that as Agent Smiths like in The Matrix. Whenever anyone is doing anything that threatens the status quo they tend to harp up and get nasty. I've encountered some of them when I've started pointing out things about our society that we're not meant to notice or discuss. A lot of people are probably jealous you're pursuing your dream, since they're too afraid to go after theirs and they've internalised the 'it's too late' lie. Keep doing what you love and don't let the Agent Smiths get in your way!
4:08 I absolutely despise balletcore classes but u don’t deserve that so many people misinterpreted that video as like you making fun on the challenges of ballet class and being one of those people who take a balletcore class to call themselves a ballerina but not have to put in the work but that’s obviously not the case because they never saw your more videos
i could understand the backlash if it was about : posting people dancing while not caring about perfection, like maybe for some it's a safe space to go into the studio and then being featured in a viral tiktok is destroying the confidence they built But : if it's about the "you're not good enough" hate, then i think it's just because you're reaching outside of your target audience so random assholes are being mean cause they can Or : for some other people, the video does not give enough context cause it's so short but if they saw this channel they'll get it?
Oh goodness Beth I’m certain you’re a WONDERFUL dancer! And I’m careful not to move into the comparison trap, though of course I appreciate your kindness 💕💕
Oh goodness Beth I’m certain you’re a WONDERFUL dancer! And I’m careful not to move into the comparison trap, though of course I appreciate your kindness 💕💕
@@VeronicaViccora lol, that’s wise. I think I usually am pretty good at just comparing myself to myself, but I’m glad you’ve helped me remember to stay that course! 💖😊 Buuuut, I do want my encouragement to stand! This is a valid analysis! And I’m not at all hurt by this knowledge cause I’ll just keep getting better, and I’m sure you will too! 😄
Listen you are doing wha they dream of doing, why would you even listen to such petty lifeless people, crawling on your social media to find something wrong with you so that they feel better about themselves. Build tougher skin, dont succumb to such low lives. You are pursuing your dream in a world where many abandon their dreams.
You’ll never be able to understand performing with your toe nails coming off back to back performances. This really does come across as making fun. The truth is if you knew the truth about what ballet does to your body and mind you’d probably never want to do it
well you're probably right about me not understanding what losing my toe nails would be like. However, quite frankly, my entire channel is dedicated to people who want to cultivate a positive relationship with ballet as a late starter. If your current mindset towards ballet and creativity is working for you, that's wonderful. My channel is just not the space for you.
Bold of you to make assumptions about a person you don’t know. You don’t know what’s in her heart and what she’s willing to put up with for the sake of living her dance dreams and achieving her goals. You’re not the gatekeeper for ballet either, so if her channel bugs you that much, DONT WATCH IT. And don’t you dare for one second shit on someone’s passion just because they haven’t been doing it for as long as you. You were a beginner at one point too, let’s not forget that. She has incredible potential and eventually can and will be en pointe regardless of what you think lol.
Fortunately not everyone has to have such an unhealthy relationship with ballet… Some get to love it and let it make them feel alive… It’s a personal choice to make something positive or negative❤
Okay but not gonna lie, 5:26 actually cracks me up lol.
Thank you SO MUCH for supporting this journey. I hesitate to share these parts of my story because I never want it to come off as complaining “woe is me! The internet sucks!”
But I also want to be as honest as I can about the ups and downs of it all, and on days like these, your kindness and support help in ways you don’t even know. 💕
Sending love for whatever journey you’re on 🥰 thanks for being here.
🩰 P.S. we’re so close to 5k so if you haven’t subscribed, please consider it!
You are amazing and inspiring, and as a Latin American young woman starting ballet, I relate a lot with your content. I find you're brilliant and I know well get through this. Uwu
I was a ballet dancer and am a teacher, and I have so much respect and admiration for people who start ballet as adults. I started when I was 3, so I have no idea how it is to learn the language of ballet as an adult. I recognize that if we want to try writing or painting or drawing, we can do that in private where nobody has to see or hear the results if we don't like them. But with dance--you have to put yourself in front of other people to learn. I tell my adult students--I make no assumptions about why they want to dance, because whether it's recreational or they have professional aspirations, we all want to be taught to our highest potential and for love of art. A big part of the ballet world's toxicity lies in how judgmental it historically and collectively has been. I tell my students of all ages--if you see a dancer who is better than you, rather than envy, see what you can learn. If you see a dancer who is less experienced with you, you can encourage your own growth by encouraging their growth. Artists should recognize and support artists at all stages of their journey.
your students are extremely lucky to have a teacher like you. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and for helping guide people to their highest potential no matter their age 💕
true
I’m so relieved that you’re not letting the online cruelty stop you from making these videos and continuing on your ballerina journey. Your work ethic, sparkly personality and fresh approach to life are truly inspiring. Keep it up, you got this!!
Gosh, this is one of the kindest things anyone has ever said, thank you for your constant support!! You’re the absolute BEST 💕
There are so many miserable people that are looking for the opportunity to project their insecurities onto someone else. Keep inspiring people! ❤
Thank you
I watched a series called "Nabillera," which tells the story of a man (70 year old) who harbored a childhood dream of becoming a ballerina. However, his family faced financial constraints, and the societal norms of that era did not accept men pursuing ballet. As he grew up, got married, had children, and even became a grandparent, the series delved into the challenges and obstacles one might encounter in life. Despite the adversity he faced, the series underscores the message that one should never give up on their dreams. This resonates with my own aspirations, as I am currently in my final year of engineering studies and am eager to work and save money to pursue a future in the field of plastic arts.
This is sooooo inspiring! I'm going to have to watch this now, thank you so much for sharing. Wishing you all the best with your journey too!
@@VeronicaViccora If you enjoy something, what others think doesn't matter, and you should be proud of yourself because 99.99% don't even know what they want. You know what you want, and you are pursuing your dream 🤍
You are a brave person. There are so many people who wish they had the courage to start taking ballet as an adult. A lot of people get jealous of that. I had the same type of experience. I was working as a nanny for a family with two lovely children, and the little girl took ballet classes. I also dreamed of becoming a ballerina, but grew up poor and didn't have access to the types of dance classes I wanted to take. I did take dance classes for 2 years but the studio was not serious at all and they didn't even teach real ballet. Not too mention after those two years my family couldn't afford it anymore. But one day as I was dropping off the little girl I took care of at her ballet class I got up the courage to ask her teacher if the studio had an adult class for beginners. I was so nervous, but more excited than anything. I felt like a little kid also I rushed into class with such excitement. Unfortunately, after taking one class I was convinced that my posture is pretty bad and I couldn't seem to correct it. The teacher really had no patience for me and would scream at me with frustration. I remember trying so hard to stop the tears from coming out my eyes but they just kept coming. I didn't want to take up time from the other dancers in the class, so I stopped going, feeling completely defeated and embarrassed. I really hate how so many people gate keep ballet as if certain people shouldn't be given the opportunity to learn based on their age or lack of experience. Anyway I admire you for having the confidence to do what I wish I could have continued doing. You are an inspiration. Best of luck with your ballet journey. Please don't let the haters get you down. ❤
I am so sorry they treated you this way
OMG I understand this so well and I'm SO sorry. It's true, some people really have this attitude like you should just ALREADY have the information and be able to read their mind. What a ridiculous way to treat someone who obviously had so much passion and enthusiasm. Best of luck to you too, I'm not sure if you're dancing again but I hope you'll find a way to give it another shot if not!
I felt this with every ounce of my being. "to spend your whole life watching other people live the dream that you so desperately long for but are not allowed to do because you were born wrong or not in the financial class." It's so painful to watch someone else live that dream and to want it, dream of doing it, and just not having a way in. You want to be happy for them but you're also just sad for yourself. It's hard but you know what, I love that you're chasing your dreams and I'm doing the same thing slowly but surely. Baby steps are still steps and one day I'll get there. Thank you for sharing
Exactly, it's really nice to feel heard and understood so thank you for that. Best of luck to you on whatever journey you might be on as well!
At the same time that a lot of us will never understand the time and sacrifice that goes into these ballet dancers you're talking about at 8:40 (ish), a lot of them will never understand people who never got such opportunities. So keep going and don't let this nonsense from internet cowards hold you back! :) I have so much respect for you.
You have no idea how much your kindness and encouragement helps me, thank you so much. As cruel as the internet can be, it also connects me with people like yourself and for that I'm very grateful
Actually you were targeted and bullied because you dared to break the "rules" and the norm. And yes, it's also about money and class. I've danced ballet (and other dance forms) on and off all my life. The hardest part was finding teachers willing to take me (for classical ballet). Eventually, in my 40s I got lucky several years in a row having enough money AND access to classes long enough to complete several international ballet exams. But the teachers didn't want to teach me beyond a certain level because they were scared I would become "competition" by offering classes (I live in a small town and none of the teachers here were ever professional dancers themselves). So the first one came up with an excuse for not allowing me into her advanced class anymore. Then I found another teacher but once I got to a certain level she also came up with all kinds of excuses not to train me properly any more... it was sooooo frustrating. Then covid hit and I lost my business, and I had to struggle so hard as a single mom to take care of my daughter, there was no chance to dance anymore. Trying to start from scratch again just seems too much. I miss dancing (and my ballet classes so much). Thank you for standing up for us adult dancers. Don't let anyone stop you. Also you HAVE talent! It's obvious. Anyone can see. They wouldn't need to bully you if you didn't.
WOW this is a truly incredible story and honestly, something I hear so few people talking about but it's very real! People is positions of authority over us can totally misuse their power when they feel threatened, just one of many reasons why we have to take everything with a grain of salt.
Also thank you so much for your vulnerability and kind words, sounds like you're very talented and I'm hoping you'll be able to find a new way to dance!
@@VeronicaViccora Thank you for your kind and encouraging reply. I am slowly dancing at home again... I just don't feel like myself unless I dance ballet regularly. I think you may know exactly what I'm talking about. Good luck on your journey!
Unfortunately, it’s not just a ballet thing; I have met countless musicians who didn’t start playing their primary instruments until they were in high school and some of them went on to be professionals and others still play for fun. In the Classical Music world, it is also looked down upon if you start late; I went to college with an Oboist that took her 20 years to get her Associates degree and I also went to college with an older gentleman in his 70’s who was a retired math teacher and after he retired, he went back to school to study composition. Don’t listen to the haters and keep doing you!
Wow this is FANTASTIC. Thank you SO much for sharing. This is extremely inspiring.
I relate to this so much. I used to be a ballet dancer when I was younger, and I wanted to pursue it but my parents couldn't find classes when we made a big move. So the ballerina in me became dormant. Found a hip hop class, but it wasn't for me, because at heart, I'm a classical dancer. I discovered an Indian classical dance form called Bharatnatyam when I was 16, and I've never looked back. I am 20 now, and sometimes I compare myself to dancers who have been dancing that particular art form since they were really young. But I am enjoying the journey. It's been four years, and I've made so much progress than I ever thought was possible. Thank you for this video. The passion and desire to dance is what keeps us going.
This is such a beautiful story!! Thank you for sharing this! It’s wonderful that you never gave up and found something that resonates with you even though it wasn’t what you initially wanted. Life is funny that way and it’s really admirable that you stayed open minded and hard working. Best of luck on your journey and keep me posted! 💕
@@VeronicaViccora thank you so much! this makes me so happy to read. good luck on your journey as well!
I love Indian dance styles, they're so beautiful! My mum saw an ad for a Bollywood dance class and for some reason thought I needed to try it. I was very depressed at the time. After a few weeks I built up the courage to go and instantly loved it. I went for several years and performed at local festivals, weddings and even danced on a catwalk once to showcase the work of an Indian designer! It was a mixture of different Indian dance styles. I have huge respect for Indian classical dancers because it looks insanely hard and beautiful. I absolutely love the costumes too.
@@katec9893 this is so lovely to hear! I love Bollywood, and I'm sure you're a beautiful dancer! keep it up, I'm so proud of you 💗🎀
That ballet core class seemed so fun and freeing!!! I want to take it 💯
I highly recommend you try it! It's SO much fun!
I am a ballet teacher, and it did not even enter my head that you're single handedly destroying the ballet world from watching that video. How ridiculous that people are so insecure that they would make all those cruel comments. I think you're amazing, I just found your channel today and I am really enjoying it. There are many many talented people that just never had the opportunity or the funds. Why not enjoy ballet as an adult? It's a beautiful art form and not just there for the elite. I know it doesn't help to say take no notice of them, it does hurt and I'm sorry for that. Please keep it up though, you are inspiring a lot of people. ❤
The ballet community is definitely a tough one. It's one of the most precise forms of dance and one of the few forms of art that has a measurably "right" and "wrong" way of doing it. You're going to have a really hard time convincing people who love ballet that imperfection is ok; for many imperfection is the antithesis of what ballet is and stands for as a "higher art form."
That being said, I commend you for how hard you work to pursue ballet. As someone who had to give up ballet years ago because my family could not afford it, I completely understand the heartbreak of watching other people pursue ballet from the sidelines. It is incredibly hard physically and requires an insane amount of passion to even take classes, let alone giving up as much as you have. It is an extremely precise skill that is hard earned in a way many other dance styles or sports are not, which is why many people feel so passionate about it both in class and behind the keyboard.
Some advice that you are welcome to take or leave: ballet dancers and ballet lovers are generally as precise, and at times, as unforgiving as the art. The term "ballerina" is usually reserved in the ballet community for the best ballet dancers in the company; usually people call themselves "ballet dancers", even if they've been dancing for decades. Ballet companies have titles for their internal rankings and positions and "ballerina" is generally reserved for the top of that totem pole, if it's even used at all. Also, the ballet core class you took did look like a fun dance class, but was not a class that contained only ballet. You're welcome to define things and yourself however you want, but calling yourself a "ballet dancer" and referring to classes as "ballet classes" only when they contain strictly ballet may alleviate some of the online comments. Just know that even though you're allowed to define yourself and what you're doing however you want, generally people who love something as precise as ballet aren't super open to new definitions and will make that known.
What you're doing is admirable and I hope you keep going! Ballet is an incredible art form that you clearly love. The ballet community is nitpicky and not the nicest at times, but I think you should keep going if you were willing to work as many jobs as you have to take classes. A love like that comes once in a lifetime. Sending you lots of love 💕💕
You’re so empathetic and such a passionate dancer. You’re really inspiring, Veronica
You're so kind and encouraging, this made my day! Thank you!
I was totally into the Ballet Core class, I totally got it. It was like how jazz goes off, or as if Flash Dance did a performant I’ve ballet combo. Gees.
Unfortunately not everyone is as kind or open minded as you
Perplexed by the bullying. I got the jist of that class -- letting go -- but also, have people never seen any sort of contemporary dance? Jeez. You're amazing and a gerogeous dancer!
I surely wented to start classical dance at young age. But unfortunately ballet wasnt known . There wasnt ballet a all. Soooo I started at 28 years as a beginning dancer. And this years I'm trying to audition for dance program in university. And its so HARD because I'm working full time job but I don- t have money to take more class. I don't think I'm good enough. But I'll try my hardest because I love this and and I want to take more seriously in full time program. Regardless of what my dance instructors think or my relatives.
You're clearly very very brave and we could all learn a thing or two from you. Just know that whatever happens on your journey, you're inspiring people, even if there are those who want to tear you down
I am SO GLAD I found your channel. I also started ballet "late" and your whole speech about not giving up made me tear up in the best way possible. Thank you amazing human
Wow! Your kind words made me tear up! Thank you so much for being here 💕💕
Keep going babe!! I’m 27 and have always wanted to do ballet. My mom was a ballerina and always admired that about her. You inspire me to sign up for my first class (:
YES! I hope you fall in love with it - it will make you feel so strong, empowered and beautiful
I really appreciate you sharing your story. I have been so inspired to try dance again after watching your videos. I think you have made a space for adults to try again or try for the first time.
Thank you for showing such kindness and understanding toward even those seeking harm. Your art form is beautiful and inspiring as is your mindset and compassion. Please continue to share your amazing journey of passion and putting positivity and love into the world in the face of obstacles and adversity. 🩰
Those comments make me so so angry, I'm so glad you continue to stand up for yourself
it's human nature! Thank you for the support though :)
You have incredible flexibility (splits, long reaches) not to mention a very natural feel for music. Forget the mean people. Their comments are a reflection of themselves, not you.
Omg thank you SOO much for the compliments! that really means the world to me!
8:01 First of all - ballet isn't a finite resource 😂 there's plenty of training and dancing to go around. Ballet has so much elitism and gate keeping that is unfair to adults like us who didn't grow up with the privledges to study dance as kiddos - especially if we realized as kids we wanted it and couldn't have it for whatever reason. Your journey is so cool!
don’t give up on dancing it’s definitely a skill to learn and I love to dance so keep doing that and you’ll improve your performance in the long run
you're 100% correct! no matter what, I don't think I could ever really give up, I just love it too much
First ballet core seems so much fun and I want to do it now! Second, you are a dancer! Those bullies are reflecting their own fears on to you. No one can ruin the art form of dance except maybe those companies that put models into pointe shoes instead of hiring dancers, they are the worst. My point is that you can tell how much you love it and that makes you a beautiful addition to the dance world. I came to NYC to pursue dance and it was hard and I was so scared to put my dancing online to be judge. So what you did took guts and I love it. It makes me want to show my dancing videos too. Also when I was 20 I was told that I was too old and there wasn’t videos of dancers who were older and pursuing it. Your videos will inspire those now 17, 20, 35, 50 years old people who always wanted to dance but didn’t see how they could and now they can watch your videos. Anyway, thank you for sharing and haters going to hate. Haha.
omg thank you so so much for your kindness! it really means the world
Girl, never ever listen to those hate comments. When i was watching that video i was litterly like ' omg your so good'. And your really my inspiration.❤
You absolutely inspire me to keep going on 🩰I haven't missed a single video since I discovered you! 💕
PS: I also love your weekly newsletter 😍
You are a GEM!!! Thank you so much, that means more than you’ll ever know. 💕 sending SO much love!!!
You were just having fun. It makes me very happy to see people enjoying what they do! You’re very cute and inspirational, Veronica. Keep going! You are doing an amazing job. Don’t listen to the negativity. Focus on the positive! You have so much to be grateful for, and you are living most people’s dream life.
That white dress is so beautiful!!
THANK YOU for that lovely shout out!!! OMG 😫😫😫😫 my heart is literally melted, what an amazing connection the universe brought us together at the right time 💖💖💖
ah!! Thank YOU for your unbelievable kindness
I love this so much, and thank you for putting yourself in a position like this so we could connect. (if that makes sense) I have so much respect for you, and that you’re trying to do this, please don’t give up. I’m in a similar situation. I started dancing two years ago, but of course i’m surrounded by others so much better than me. I’m trying out new classes next week, and i’m scared out of my mind. This made me feel better knowing i’m not alone. thank you.
That's AMAZING! Thank you so much for all your kind words. Being scared is normal, but it's the courage you have to do it anyway that's really inspiring and rare. Keep me posted on your journey. I want to be able to support you too
Literally made me tear up. Thank you so much for continuing to share despite all the negativity
thank you so much
Girl, listen. Don't give up. I'm 16 and I wanted to start doing ballet but I thought I was too old for it. Your videos doing what you like inspired me to not care about my age and start doing ballet because I love it so much. I just was afraid of being the only one starting at this age and you helped me not feel alone.
I started at 16 too! u aint too old i promise ur gonna pick up on it very quick and will end up with tons of opportunities! i'd love to see ur journey
Words can't even express how grateful I am of you and your story! You are truly inspiring. I don't normally comment but I found your video about "it not being too late" and it just inspired me to a degree I've never felt before. Ive been learning how to sing on my own and I completely understand your frustrations especially about people not understanding and taking things so seriously and being rude. As the stranger I am on the internet I want to comment and tell you please keep going!!! Follow your dreams. I believe in you!!!.
Right back at you, seriously. Please never stop following your heart and know how grateful I am for you too
I feel so sorry that you had to go through this, especially during a difficult time in your personal life... But I really admire that you try to see humans behind the hateful comments, humans that were hurt in the past. That says so much about your character. I'm glad that you didn't let the negativity stop you. Best of luck on your journey!
Thanks so much love, it's people like you that I want to focus on because like I said, it's not surprising that people will say hateful things, but for someone like yourself to take time out of your day to share something kind, that's pretty incredible. Thank you so much for all your support
Hi Veronica, You handled this really well. You're a lot stronger than you think 💓
Hey Veronica, just want to say how much I admire you. I'm 33 and I'm also a late starter in my field. It can feel demoralizing having to work with much younger people (especially when I was a teacher teaching kids their age in my previous life), who don't know much about the randomness of life.. trust me. It doesn't go as planned for most people. I'm so proud of you for being so courageous. It's your life. Worst thing is to look back at the end of your life and regret not having even tried. Do you :)
This is exactly why you need to keep going because it’s never a good thing to keep exclusive things exclusive. Ballet is amazing but it needs a modern makeover to have more diversity and inclusion. And you are just a beginner and doing amazing! Much farther along than a child beginner would be, so in a couple years, all those commenters will probably be eating crow… Also, they probably just did the opposite of what they wanted to do by giving your channel a boost. I think you are beautiful and your passion shows when you dance. You can laugh at yourself but you don’t need to!!! Nothing funny or embarrassing about your performance in dance class. You did great and looked adorable❤
Keep pursuing your dreams and don’t listen to anyone else! Thank you for sharing your journey and message. It’s so important for people to hear.
I started pursuing ballet professionally at 23 and if I would have listened to everyone telling me I shouldn’t, I wouldn’t have done it! I’m now on the other side as a professional dancer ❤ you can do this!
That is REALLY encouraging and I’m very curious to hear more about your story! I’m collecting some interviews to share on my blog in 2024. If you’d be willing to share more of your story, please email me at hello@veronicaviccora.com - I think it could inspire a ton of people 💕
Of course! I'd love to share my story. I think that is incredible! I'll send you an email. Thanks so much :) @@VeronicaViccora
I like your dance class. Whatever someone else say. Just do what you love.
You're 100% right! Thanks for the encouragement
weird, because I thought you did really good in the video, I was like aww lol
aww thank you! I think it just confused people because it was taken out of content - not everyone can be as kind as you!
there should be so many more people that see life that way, becouse you can always at least try to reach your dream
Absolutely!!! You never know what life has in store for you, things don’t always go the way we’d hope, but I believe it’s always worth trying your best. thank you for being here💕
Absolutely Brilliant ❤
Right back atcha😘
I just want to say how beautiful you are, both inside and out. Watching your videos bring me so much comfort, I recently started adult ballet classes and watching someone else go through a similar experience to me makes this journey a lot less scary aha, ily and can't wait for more videos!🫶
this is so so kind of you thank you! I'm so glad we can encourage each other and I'm SO excited to know that you're gifting yourself the most beautiful art of dance
I’m sorry that sharing your journey with us has put you in such a vulnerable position to people who don’t understand it, but I’m grateful you’ve done it. I’m writing this during a break at my ballet studio. It’s my third week coming to class and you played a huge part on me finally deciding to actually come to classes. It took me a few months to get over the fear and anxiety of simply showing up to the studio, but I’m here now and I’m doing everything I can to get better everyday. You’ve provided me with the liberty of taking my aspirations seriously. So thank you, and I hope you can always find the strength to keep going with yours too ♥️
WOW! that's AMAZING! I'm so honored by your incredibly kind words but that's all you love! Deciding to do something so vulnerable as showing up and dancing in front of strangers for the first time is a difficult choice but you did it, and you're doing it. That says A LOT about your character.
haters gonna hate no matter what you do... that indeed wasn't ballet but contemporary dance and you executed it really well. Those comments come from frustrated people with no life
100% being an adult trying to learn a skill so hard... I'm doing ballet and kickboxing and muay thai...I'm doing it for my little self she couldn't do that so now im so proud that I can do it 🖤
That is AMAZING!!! You’re absolutely making her proud, thank you so much for sharing that 💕
your videos give me the strength to continue the search for beauty🌸thank u🦋
That was so poetic and I’m absolutely honored to know that. Thank you so much for being here💕
i think if it was named : ballet core, dancers might assume that people were only there for the aesthetic since it became a trend? when they were really here to dance with no judgement (which can not really be done since comments on tiktok are full of judgement so that's ironic) -
there's even an instagram page about models posing as ballet dancers for clothing advertisement that straight up says they should hire dancers cause models might injure themselves doing poses they can't actually achieve without training (it's a whole thing!)
This was so inspirational and you’re an incredible ballerina!!
You're an incredible human for being so kind, thank you so much!
You’re so amazing, incredible, talented and inspiring ❤️
i think You are very good ballet dancer
dont give up 😀
🎀
I wish I could give you the biggest hug 💖 people are rooting for you.
Awww that is so kind of you! I love hugs! 💕 thanks for your support, that really means more than you’ll ever know
I know that these sort of comments can be really discouraging and can make you question your worth and validity as a dancer. But it is precisely this same hatred that stops people from pursuing their dreams even at a young age. I know people who had such a love for dance and ballet but gave it up due to the toxicity and endless comments that they just aren’t “good enough” or “thin enough”. There will always be those out there who make themselves feel better when they put others down. But it is due to insecurity and not based in truth. Anyone can learn anything at any time. We may never be as good as someone else but it is enough to simply have a passion for this art form. It is why we do most of the things we do. If everyone simply quit because they weren’t best of the best at it, no one would do anything. We cook without being world renowned chefs, we read without being literary scholars. We dance without being professionals. I think it is beautiful that you are being so vulnerable and transparent about a dream you have had forever. It is NOT too late to start something new. There is a whole lot of life left to live and I would like to look back and know that I followed my dreams no matter how crazy, than say I gave up because someone said I wasn’t worthy of it. Please keep going! You have inspired me in so many ways and I know you inspire so many others. 💕🩰
This pierced my soul. Thank you Veronica 🥺🤍
ohhh you're so special my friend
A much-needed, well-reflected and brave video! Loved it❤
so much love to you
I thought your dance performance was amazing! Thank you for sharing your journey ^^
thank you for being here and being so encouraging!
I love your outfit at 7:04 ! 🫶
Thank you!!!
I love these videos omgggg
Ugh I love YOU!! 💕
Dear ballerina… you re a really wisdom woman. Thanks to the universe for meet you in the right time for me. You are like a 19th beauty, elegant and sophisticated. Never never give up ♾✨ this type of behaviour is part of the human being as you said. Nothing else matters.
You are soooo sweet and kind! Thank you for being a positive light in the world
keep it up
Thank you soooo much!!!
You are brave and inspiring. Never give up!!!! No matter what we do or don't, haters gonna hate anyway :)
It's so true, thanks for the encouragement, it really means more than you know
Sorry to hear about all the stupid messages you received. I tend to think of people like that as Agent Smiths like in The Matrix. Whenever anyone is doing anything that threatens the status quo they tend to harp up and get nasty. I've encountered some of them when I've started pointing out things about our society that we're not meant to notice or discuss. A lot of people are probably jealous you're pursuing your dream, since they're too afraid to go after theirs and they've internalised the 'it's too late' lie. Keep doing what you love and don't let the Agent Smiths get in your way!
Just discovered your channel. New subscriber here.
Welcome! And thank you so much for your support!
4:08 I absolutely despise balletcore classes but u don’t deserve that so many people misinterpreted that video as like you making fun on the challenges of ballet class and being one of those people who take a balletcore class to call themselves a ballerina but not have to put in the work but that’s obviously not the case because they never saw your more videos
thank you
i could understand the backlash if it was about : posting people dancing while not caring about perfection, like maybe for some it's a safe space to go into the studio and then being featured in a viral tiktok is destroying the confidence they built
But : if it's about the "you're not good enough" hate, then i think it's just because you're reaching outside of your target audience so random assholes are being mean cause they can
Or : for some other people, the video does not give enough context cause it's so short but if they saw this channel they'll get it?
Me… it was me the 1 person
Oh I just love you
Oh right back atcha 🥰
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I have been dancing for 5 years now, and you're way better than me... Just saying.
Oh goodness Beth I’m certain you’re a WONDERFUL dancer! And I’m careful not to move into the comparison trap, though of course I appreciate your kindness 💕💕
Oh goodness Beth I’m certain you’re a WONDERFUL dancer! And I’m careful not to move into the comparison trap, though of course I appreciate your kindness 💕💕
@@VeronicaViccora lol, that’s wise. I think I usually am pretty good at just comparing myself to myself, but I’m glad you’ve helped me remember to stay that course! 💖😊 Buuuut, I do want my encouragement to stand! This is a valid analysis! And I’m not at all hurt by this knowledge cause I’ll just keep getting better, and I’m sure you will too! 😄
Listen you are doing wha they dream of doing, why would you even listen to such petty lifeless people, crawling on your social media to find something wrong with you so that they feel better about themselves. Build tougher skin, dont succumb to such low lives. You are pursuing your dream in a world where many abandon their dreams.
You’ll never be able to understand performing with your toe nails coming off back to back performances. This really does come across as making fun. The truth is if you knew the truth about what ballet does to your body and mind you’d probably never want to do it
well you're probably right about me not understanding what losing my toe nails would be like. However, quite frankly, my entire channel is dedicated to people who want to cultivate a positive relationship with ballet as a late starter. If your current mindset towards ballet and creativity is working for you, that's wonderful. My channel is just not the space for you.
Bold of you to make assumptions about a person you don’t know. You don’t know what’s in her heart and what she’s willing to put up with for the sake of living her dance dreams and achieving her goals. You’re not the gatekeeper for ballet either, so if her channel bugs you that much, DONT WATCH IT. And don’t you dare for one second shit on someone’s passion just because they haven’t been doing it for as long as you. You were a beginner at one point too, let’s not forget that. She has incredible potential and eventually can and will be en pointe regardless of what you think lol.
@@meghancomo96 well-said
Fortunately not everyone has to have such an unhealthy relationship with ballet… Some get to love it and let it make them feel alive… It’s a personal choice to make something positive or negative❤