Michelle Benash presents thoughtful and intelligent exercises for beginning Pointe students. Her delightful and well thought out regime is a must for teachers and students who care about the healthy development of Pointe work. --Kirk Peterson, Ballet Master, American Ballet TheatreThis video offers an introduction to many aspects of dancing en pointe and is intended to supplement a full regimen of classes.  Hosted by ballerina, Michelle Benashe, who teaches at New York s High School of the Performing Arts (the school is portrayed in Fame), the video begins with instructions for sewing the ribbons onto new toe shoes, taking care of one s feet, and tying the ribbons properly.  Special attention is given to the correct fit.  The balance of the program depicts an older teen demonstrating many barre exercises to get used to the feeling of being on toe followed by several combinations at the barre and in the center.  Many still frames are used to provide added emphasis or to clarify verbal instructions.  The student sometimes wears a white tutu with red point shoes to make the demonstration clearer.  This well-organized and practical guide will be useful for serious, experienced dancers who are comfortable with ballet s unique vocabulary. --School Library Journal