I KNOW COUPLES WHO REMORTGAGE THEIR HOMES TO AFFORD IT
rachael lewis, 43, who works in financial services, lives in chester with david, 54, a programme manager, their son rohan, 19, and daughters alanna, 16, Neve, 14, and angel, ten. rachael says:
ANgEL’S love of ballet has taken over our world. If we’re not at a lesson, we’re travelling to one or to an audition or doing a show. It costs a fortune, and as a family we’ve had to sacrifice luxuries such as holidays and meals out.
My other children, who have sacrificed their own school trips because of the cost, don’t seem to resent it. They fully support her dream to become a professional ballerina.
Angel started dancing lessons at the age of three. I joke that she danced out of the womb, but it’s only in the past two years that she seems drawn to ballet. She’s got a natural talent for it.
Every Saturday, we attend a prestigious scheme in Birmingham which takes up most of the day and costs £395 per term. She has around 12 hours of classes on top of that, locally or at school.
Outfits and shoes can be expensive. A dance leotard can cost around £50 and she has a lot. She hasn’t started on pointe yet, but when she does you’re looking at £55 a pair.
In September she hopes to go to dance school full-time. I know some couples who’ve re-mortgaged their houses to be able to provide lessons and school fees. Even if she gets a scholarship, we’ll still have to pay out thousands every year.
But she’s bright and determined and she has already proved that by getting to the final stage auditions for a place at the Royal Ballet School. I’m very proud of her and just want her to be happy.