Matt Shanks: Small adventures in words and pictures
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The bear of ballet

The tension in the room was palpable as they took their positions to begin in the final exam. Frederico took to the floor in a brand new outfit to impress Ballet Master Du’soire. He had sworn to the girls that he would never wear a tutu but he was desperate to show his capability, poise and flair. There was only one opening for Principal dancer and he needed this more than anyone. The music began…

Artist notes: In the last few years I've watched a lot of ballet. As my wife goes 'en pointe' at 36 years old I thought what better way to celebrate than with a little ode to the ballet.