C atalog Fall 2007/W in ter 2008 G aynor M in den A rtists

Catalog Fall 2007/Winter 2008
it’s a m a z ing w h at g o e s into
m a king s ome thing effo r t l e s s .
Gaynor Minden Artists
Dear Dancers,
In 1985, about ten years after this photo was taken, I set out to
make a better pointe shoe. Unnecessary pain, shoes lasting only one
performance, dainty sylphs clomping like horses—it just
made no sense. Every other kind of athlete enjoys superb
equipment made with up-to-the-minute technology.
Why should we dancers settle for less?
Today, tens of thousands of dancers have voted with
their feet and chosen Gaynor Minden. Some are among
the finest dancers on the planet, no exaggeration. From
Boston to Béjart, from A.B.T. to the Bolshoi, from the
Royal to the Mariinsky, you’ll find Gaynor Mindens.
Equally gratifying: great teachers are recommending
them to the next generation. We’re honored and
delighted to present some of these outstanding artists
here in our catalog.
Cordially,
“That’s me, Eliza Gaynor,
age 15, wondering if sore toes
really make you dance better.”
Eliza Gaynor Minden
p.s. Read about the lives of these dancers and meet more
GM Artists on our web site.
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To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
I was impressed when I first tried
Gaynor Minden shoes. Now ballet
shoes are not just beautiful, but also
very comfortable. And the most
important thing is that comfort lasts
for a long time. My feet are grateful for
the shoes and my audience is happy
with my dancing.
“
“
With Gaynor Minden I feel I can do
anything.
— Yekaterina Shipulina
Principal Dancer, Bolshoi Ballet
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As a professional dancer I’ve come to
realize that what makes this art form
truly magical is something beyond
technique. Gaynor Mindens give me
the added confidence to reach this next
level. I know my shoes will be soundless,
and fit perfectly. I go onstage ready to
completely enjoy the movement and the
moment.
“
“
4
— Gillian Murphy
“
“
Pointe Shoes
New Suede Outer Sole.
Color: Between an Abyssinian cat and a
gingersnap cookie. Gold lettering.
$75.99
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I adore them!
“
“
I love how they make jumping so light, so
effortless, and so quiet, and how they
make balancing so easy (which I especially
appreciate for the Rose Adagio).
— Yevgenia Obraztsova
Soloist, Mariinksy (Kirov) Ballet
Left: Genia, seen here as Juliet, has been wearing
Gaynor Minden pointe shoes since 2006.
“
“
There are no better shoes than Gaynor
Minden to dance Romantic roles! Gaynor
Mindens are so light and quiet that it makes
dancing smoothly, and giving the impression
of gliding across the stage, easy.
— Olesia Novikova
Soloist, Mariinksy (Kirov) Ballet
Right: Olesia, seen here as Giselle has been wearing
Gaynor Minden pointe shoes since 2006.
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To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
1. Anti-shock Poron® 4000 linings.
American Podiatric Medical Assn. Seal
of Acceptance. (Joyous jumping.)
2. Elastomeric construction.
Proven ergonomically correct to
promote proper alignment and strong
technique. (The ally of artistry.)
3. Slender, high-tech accessories.
Slim, dynamic foam and gel liners,
cushy stretch toe tape, secure heel
grippers, adjustable toe spacers.
(Forget lamb’s wool and bulky pads;
think comfort with discretion.)
4. Ultra-thin cellular urethane foam
strategically placed to absorb
impact, suppress noise.
(Heavenly silence.)
5. Low profile box. Already shaped
the way your foot is shaped.
Extremely flattering and especially
kind to low-arched insteps.
(Sleek and elegant.)
6. 2,951 sizes. 5 flexibilities of shank,
3 shapes of box, 4 types of heel,
2 vamps + lengths + widths. Standard
options, readily available, no more
suffering in special order limbo.
(A stock shoe you can custom fit.)
7. Drawstring side closure.
Cleverly disappears under the arch.
(No more sore spot on top of foot.)
8. Injection molded shanks.
Gaynor Mindens last 5 times longer
than traditional paste shoes. Won’t
break down. Don’t need breaking in.
(Extra money for leotards.)
9. Classic lustrous peachy-pink satin
with sweat-wicking lining.
(You are a ballerina, after all.)
10. Pleatless panel yields 38% greater
useable platform. Secure, wobble-free
balances, both flat and on pointe.
(Flawless penchés and a triumphant
“Rose Adagio.”)
10 Ergonomic Secrets
[patented for all the world to see]
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Independent Scientific Research
(…as if dancing in them isn’t enough.)
Simulated relevé cycles before shoe failure
Freed
Capezio
8,868
24,592
Grishko
71,817
Gaynor Minden
Better Alignment.
Even highly
foRCE
trained dancers are foRCE
better aligned in
Gaynor Minden,
according to a study
at the Exercise
Science Department
InCoRRECt
CoRRECt
InCoRRECt
at the University
A 115-lb. dancer who sickles only 2°, as
of Massachusetts,
shown above, may transfer 40 lbs. to the
Amherst. Proper
lateral ankle, the site most vulnerable to
alignment is crucial
sprain. While dancing, these forces may
increase to 10 times her body weight.
for ballet technique,
for correct muscular
development and
for protecting the joints from injury. Forces to the ankle
during vigorous dancing can reach 10 times body weight,
misalignment can transmit these potentially injurious forces to
the medial/lateral ankle structures. Kinematic analysis of the
dancers’ ankles showed that sickling is reduced and subjects
stand straighter in Gaynor Mindens than in traditional shoes.
Superior Motion Control,
Weight Distribution, and Stability.
Researchers from the Temple University School of Podiatric
Medicine also studied issues of stability and alignment, in this
case using a pedabaragraph. Gaynor Minden again proved
superior to other shoes and was shown to have a 38% greater
useable platform area.
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248,646
Greater Impact
Absorption.
In addition, the Temple
University team assessed shock
absorption, using advanced
F-Scan technology, which enabled
them to detect actual pressures to
specific areas of the foot during
dancing. Again, Gaynor Minden
proved superior. All subjects in
the Temple University studies
were professional dancers.
Much Better
Durability.
A study at The Orthopaedic
Biomechanics Laboratory of
Union Memorial Hospital in
Baltimore, Maryland, published
in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, evaluated the durability
of various brands of pointe shoes using a machine that simulates
relevé. Gaynor Minden was still going strong after 248,000 relevé
cycles. The others didn’t come close.
Worthen, L et al., “Biomechanical Issues in Ballet: Alignment at the Ankle in Pointe Shoes,”
Performing Artists Medicine Association, proceedings of Annual Meeting, 1997.
Ng, G. et al., “F-Scan Evaluation of a Revolutionary Pointe Shoe Design,” Temple University School
of Podiatric Medicine 14th Annual Scientific Seminar, 1999.
Cunningham, B.W. et al., “A Comparative Mechanical Analysis of the Pointe Shoe Toe Box,”
American Journal of Sports Medicine 26(4):555-561, 1998.
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
“
Gaynor Mindens strengthen the feet and elongate the leg
muscles. They facilitate articulate footwork, good balance,
and correct technique. Gaynor Mindens shape to the
foot, allowing it to become an extension of the leg in a
long, continuous line. I recommend them to everyone I
teach. They are a must for my students.
“
And Respected Teachers, Too
— Melissa Hayden
January 2006
A ballerina of unforgettable brilliance, power, and artistry. Principal Dancer at New York City Ballet for
over 20 years, Melissa Hayden originated some of Balanchine’s greatest leading roles, and commanded a huge
repertory with that fusion of technique and passion that turns a dancer into a legend. She joined North Carolina
School of the Arts’ Senior Faculty in 1983 and started recommending Gaynor Minden pointe shoes in 1995.
Melissa Hayden
1923-2006
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“
Gaynor Mindens are excellent for
the beginning pointe student. They
enable the dancer to build her own
strength in the foot, without overly
relying on the shoe. They encourage
the correct position of the toes, and
provide just enough resistance for a
smooth roll-up and roll-down.
I strongly recommend this shoe—
along with good training—as a
perfect way to be introduced to the
wonderful world of pointe work!
Kathryn Sullivan, master teacher of ballet and pointe. Published author of articles and videos
on pointe technique. Respected faculty member at Barnard College and New York University. Teaching
pointe at Steps on Broadway since 1991.
Recommending Gaynor Minden pointe shoes since 1995.
I highly recommend the Gaynor Minden pointe shoe for
training of young dancers—it is not only the professional
who enjoys its benefits. It supports the foot in such a way
that the dancer is better able to feel and attain correct
alignment on pointe.
The shoe is superb for students!
“
“
— Mignon Furman
May 2006
Mignon Furman, distinguished, award-winning
ballet teacher. Creator of the Performance Awards Program.
Founding Director of the American Academy of Ballet.
Recommending Gaynor Minden pointe shoes since 1996.
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To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
“
It’s the shoe of the new generation.
— Kathryn Sullivan
April 2006
Tights
Who knew your legs had such shape?
Elegant, defined, sexy.
Meticulous manufacturing and advanced
textile technology.
Gaynor Minden weaves tights with only
the finest, genuine microfiber throughout
(70 filaments per thread) because only real microfiber produces a truly soft, luxurious “hand.”
Our 3d stretch provides the utmost freedom of
movement, for strength and flexibility to match
your own.
Crotch gusset.
Sizes S, M, L.
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Footless Microfiber
Black.
$9.99
Wool/Microfiber Blend
Warmth without bulk.
The alternative to those thick, baggy, oldfashioned legwarmers (especially the ones that
need to be pulled up after every exercise).
Slimming, sleek, and amazingly light
wool/­microfiber tights.
Imported from Italy. Black.
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$17.99
Convertible Microfiber
Net reinforced convertible opening. Pink (yes
it’s the right pink).
$10. 25
Tights Sizing Chart
Size
Large
Medium
Small
Best Fit
5’6” (165 cm) & up
5’2”– 5’5” (155 – 165 cm)
5’1” (155 cm) & under
if in doubt, select the larger size.
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
Leotards
Gaynor Minden Leotards.
Each original. Each worth having.
All painstakingly designed to make a dancer feel long-legged,
confident, and maybe slightly daring.
Maybe actually relaxed.
Maybe beautiful.
Dressy and Basic styles. Most in Tactel®.
Gaynor Minden pointe shoes give my feet
the support and shape that I never found in
any other shoe. They withstand my rigorous
rehearsals and challenging performances.
Rather than worrying if my shoes are getting
too soft, I can fully enjoy the movement and
emotion of the ballet I’m performing.
“
“
— Kristi Boone
Soloist, American Ballet Theatre
Kristi has been wearing Gaynor Minden pointe shoes
since 1999.
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Lace. Vintage haute couture. Schiaparelli,
Coco Chanel, Dior. Dancers have exquisite
necks and collarbones. This shows them off.
Slightly belled cap sleeve. Pretty enough to
wear out to dinner. Shelf-bra. Tactel/Lycra in
black. Cotton/Elasthane in White.
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$26.99
Straps. The ‘40’s and ‘50’s. The age of real
Hollywood glamour. When the night sky lit up
with sweeping searchlights, and a movie star
was a confident woman in bright red lipstick
with an unshakable sense of style. The backline
is as dramatic as the neckline. Shelf-bra. Tactel/
Lycra. Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Burgundy.
Halter. How dazzlingly low can we cut
the back and still make it work? Took us a year
and half to get it right. The better for those
to see from the other side of the studio. Nice
detail: self material ties in back, you adjust the
neckline. Tactel/Lycra. Color: Black.
$26.99
Leotard Sizing Chart
Small
Bust
Waist
Hips
Weight
Height
32” ­­– 34”
23” –­­ 26”
33” ­­– 36”
95 – 126lbs.
4’10” ­­– 5’6”
Medium
Large
34”­­­– 36”
36” ­­– 38”
–
25” ­­ 28”
28” –­­ 34”
36” ­­– 39”
39” ­­– 44”
115 –145lbs 135 ­­– 165lbs
5’4” ­­– 5’8”
5’6” –­­ 5’11”
$26.99
La Belle Epoch. High-neck lace leotard
inspired by the art and gaiety of “La Belle Epoch”—
the days of the Moulin Rouge, Monet’s Water Lilies,
and, incidentally, the first pointe shoe. Soft, pretty
stretch lace. Eight buttons down the back (purely
decorative, extremely fetching). Shelf bra. Back
zipper. Tactel/Lycra in Black. Cotton/Elasthane
in White.
$26.99
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
Sweetheart Dress. Demure, lady-like,
possibly saucy, indisputably flattering.
Cotton/Elasthane. Polyester skirt. Color: Black.
$26.99
“
Ballet has always been hard,
but Gaynor Mindens make it
easier. I’ve worn them for seven
years already.
I love them.
They don’t make any noise
when I jump and I can use the
same pair many times because
they last longer.
“
Panel Skirt Dress. Pure, clean lines.
Timeless, yet totally modern. Cotton/Elasthane.
Polyester skirt. Color: White.
$26.99
— Erica Cornejo, 2006
Principal Dancer, Boston Ballet
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Classic Never Goes Out of Style.
look again.
They’re deceptively simple.
Each of our so-called “Basics” is
a classic design, but none is plain.
Notice the details—a back, a button,
a gather, the perfectly cut legline.
Basics with panache—the way the
Mariinsky does barre.
90% Tactel (the really good stuff)
and 10% Lycra. As light and rich as
whipped cream. Feel it to believe it.
The humdrum-free everyday
leotard. Machine washable. Shelfbra. Fade resistant.
Cap Sleeve. Sweet, flattering V-neckline
with a sophisticated back. Colors: Black, Navy
Blue, Burgundy.
$25.99
Open-back Mock Turtle. Sleek,
athletic front and a knockout tear drop back. Elegant
covered button. 1”diameter. Back Button Closure
Color: Black.
$25.99
V-Neck Tank. Crisp V- lines front and
back. Discreet gathers where straps meet
torso define the shape. Colors: Black, Navy
Blue, Burgundy.
$25.99
Skinny Strap V-Neck. A classic you
can customize. Adjustable straps and adjust­
able front gathers. Stunning open back.
Colors: Black, Navy Blue, Burgundy.
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To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
$25.99
Ordering.
17
Pointe Shoe Shopping—A Brisk Allegro
We revolutionized pointe shoes. We invented a fitting system that lets
you customize a stock shoe. Now we’ve transformed pointe shoe shopping
too—from grueling adagio into brisk allegro. Online, uptempo, and
downright effortless.
• Buy
from our warehouse
and get the discount price.
• Fit fast online or send tracings through
the mail—whatever works for you.
• Be advised by Gaynor Minden’s very own experts. Our Fitterinas are all
dancers and Certified Fitters.
• Access our uncensored selection of
every Gaynor Minden product and
every pointe shoe fitting option—all 2,951.
It breaks with tradition to buy your pointe shoes this way. We invite you to try it.
Teachers: Please contact us for information about becoming a Certified Fitting
Advisor and about our Teacher Rewards Program. We contribute part of what
you spend to support deserving dancers. It’s our way of helping teachers help
their students. 800.637. 9240.
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To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
Great dancers, and other
exotic royalty, have always
preferred silk.
Rajahs, Sultanas, Doges of Venice, Moghul Princes
(and even their elephants), the Emperors of China and
all two hundred Imperial concubines, wore nothing
less, and nothing more, than pure silk.
Margot Fonteyn specified silk tights, Taglioni had
silk slippers, and Balanchine would accept no substitute
for the gowns in Vienna Waltzes.
Because nothing, absolutely nothing, moves and
feels like Silk.
You, too, should dance in silk. Presenting
sumptuous, silken Studio Wear.
Blended with just enough spandex and cotton to
make it stretchy, and—in case Her Serene Highness
ever has to do her own laundry—machine washable.
Just sew and go.
“
“
— Maria Riccetto
Soloist, American Ballet Theatre
Maria has been wearing Gaynor Minden pointe
shoes since 1998.
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Silky Wrap Sweater.
An elegant improvement on the classic.
Extra-long sleeves for staying warm during
extra-long balances.
Smart-looking self-tie goes side or back, up to you.
Wrap Sweater.
Silk Blend. Machine washable.
Sizes: S, M, L. Color: Black.
Imported.
$34.95
Silk Shorts.
Not bike shorts. Not bloomers.
Years ago they might have been called
“hot pants.”
Our sleek, slimming silk-blend transforms readily
into a “boy short.”
And that can be very sexy.
Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Shorts.
Silk Blend. Machine washable.
Sizes: S, M, L.
Color: Black.
Imported.
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$19.95
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
Long Silky Sweater.
Attention Teachers, Coaches,
Ballet Mistresses, Directors:
Silk: delicately thin but plenty warm.
Our Long Silky Sweater keeps the
chill off without swaddling you
beyond recognition.
Cut long, with extra-long
sleeves you can roll up to meet
special challenges.
Flattering scoop neck.
Side vents so it always hangs
perfectly, whether in bharadvajasana
or six o’clock penché.
Silk Blend. Machine washable.
Size: S, M, L. Color: Black.
Imported.
That’s no accident.
For years teachers have asked us
to design something for them.
Here it is. Something to keep
you warm, something that lets you
demonstrate full-out, something
not just dignified, but a little bit
distinguished too.
$34.95
Ultimately I choose Gaynor Minden
because I like their soft, quiet landings
onstage, and how they let me feel my
foot working against the floor—even
with the hard shank that my flexible
feet require. And they are comfortable,
even after a long day of rehearsing my
feet feel great.
“
“
Notice how elegantly our
Long Silky Sweater pairs with
our Dancing Pants?
— Veronika Part
Soloist, American Ballet Theatre;
Principal, Kirov Ballet
Veronika has been wearing Gaynor Minden
pointe shoes since 2004.
When you’re dancing,
and when you’re not.
Silk-blend Dancing Pants.
Boot-cut gives legs extra dazzle
when you’re really moving, and extra
sleekness when you’re standing still.
Fetching low-slung V-shaped
waistline.
Silk Blend. Machine washable.
Sizes: S, M, L.
Color: Black.
Imported.
$36.95
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Free Stuff.
That’s right. These items are free with any purchase while supplies last. Help yourself, but don’t overdo it.
Posters
Breathtaking images for your studio, dressing room, or home. 12” x 18” .
IT`S AMAZING WHAT GOES INTO
IT`S AMAZING WHAT GOES INTO
MAKING SOMETHING EFFORTLESS
MAKING SOMETHING EFFORTLESS
Refrigerator Magnets
When was the last time your fridge
inspired you? Size: 1- 7⁄8” x 3- 3⁄8 ” .
american ballet theatre’s Z H O N G - J I N G F A N G HAS BEEN WEARING
Gaynor Minden POINTE SHOES SINCE 2002 .
WWWDANCERCOM
Gillian’s Penché
ZJ
La Sylphide
Irina Kolesnikova
Gillian’s Penché. Wow.
ZJ ABT’s Zhong-Jing Fang in an amazing cambré (en pointe).
Eat Right
Odile Adjusts
Her Ribbons
Ballerina Legs
Erica’s Attitude
Tatiana
ZJ
La Sylphide The Royal Ballet’s Alina Cojocaru does a supernatural jeté.
Irina Kolesnikova Prima Ballerina of Konstantin Tatchkin’s St. Petersburg Ballet, in Swan Lake.
Erica’s Jeté Erica Cornejo of the Boston Ballet in a neoclassical moment.
Tatiana in Don Q Tatiana Tkachenko of the Mariinsky (Kirov) Ballet.
Jenny’s Arabesque Jenny Jagerhorn, star of the Finnish National Ballet.
Zenaida Soars The Royal Ballet’s Principal Dancer Zenaida Yanowsky as Odette.
IT`S AMAZING WHAT GOES INTO
MAKING SOMETHING EFFORTLESS
IT`S AMAZING WHAT GOES INTO
MAKING SOMETHING EFFORTLESS
Anastasia’s Billowing Jeté
boston ballet’s principal dancer ERICA CORNEJO has been wearing
Gaynor Minden pointe shoes since 1999 .
W W W D A N C E R C O M
Erica’s Jeté
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Tatiana in Don Q
Jenny’s Arabesque
Zenaida Soars
Gillian’s Penché
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
For dancers who have
an as yet unconfessed thing
about leopard.
Training Aids & Unusual Extras
Your feet will purr.
Extra-long, extra-cuddly, extracozy, extra-fleecy, extra leopard-like
warmups.
We call them “paws.” No
explanation needed.
High-tech stretch fleece loosens
up dancers’ feet, ankles, and toes so
much faster than possible with regular
legwarmers or ordinary socks.
Start looking forward to warmer
and more exciting tendus on those
inevitable cold mornings ahead of you.
Available 2 ways: sexy leopard
or panther black.
Each with a witty paw print on
the sole.
For better traction. (Leopards
and panthers never slip up.)
Paws. Size: Medium.
$22.50
“
“
From my heart, I’m really happy with
these shoes.
— Anastasia Matvienko
Principal Dancer, Kiev Ballet
Anastasia, who is also on our cover, has been
wearing Gaynor Mindens since 2006, and is
seen here at The Stars of The 21ST Century
Gala with Denis Matvienko, Principal Dancer,
Bolshoi Ballet.
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A New Classic for Today’s Dancer.
• Over 150 stunning photographs of ballet stars Maria Riccetto and Benjamin
Millepied demonstrating perfect execution of positions and steps
• Practical advice for getting started such as selecting a school, getting the most out
of class, and studio etiquette
• Explanations of ballet fundamentals and major training systems
• An illustrated guide through ballet class—warm-up, barre, center floor
• Guidelines for safe, healthy dancing through a sensible diet, injury prevention,
and cross training with yoga and Pilates
• Descriptions of Must-See ballets and glossaries of dance, music, and theater terms
• Lavishly illustrated sidebars on ballet history
Excerpt from
“
“
• Tips on everything from styling a ballet bun to stage make-up to performing the
perfect pirouette
The Ballet Companion by Eliza Gaynor Minden. 333 pages.
Published by Simon and Schuster, Inc.
$24.99 (autographed!)
A superb reference book—all the information today’s students need but can’t get just by
taking class—every dancer’s library should have it.
— Angel Corella, Principal Dancer, American Ballet Theatre
The Ballet Companion
Pirouette Tips from a Pro—Gillian Murphy
“Turning is a gift, though it requires a certain dynamic and a certain fearlessness.”
• Don’t move your front heel before you turn.
• You know both a good and a bad turn immediately, and in a bad
turn, you know to cut your losses. A good turn feels easy.
• Push off with both legs but keep your weight forward.
• Relevé strongly and quickly. Pull up from the back of the leg
right under your buttocks to get on your supporting leg.
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• Don’t sacrifice form. There’s no point to lots of turns without
form. In fact, everyone just wants them to stop.
• Use your spot. Free the head and relax the upper body.
• There’s a smaller turning surface when turning on pointe but not
much difference in placement. You feel higher off the ground.
• Good turns come from your work throughout the barre and
center, especially from pliés, relevés, and petit allegro.
• You gain mastery through repetition, but not of your mistakes.
Make sure to practice correctly.
Copyright © 2005 Eliza Gaynor Minden. Excerpted with permission.
“
“
Gaynor Minden pointe shoes help
me dance my best—I love them.
Dancer’s Backpack.
— Tatiana Tkachenko
Soloist, Mariinsky (Kirov) Ballet
Quick access to shoes in their own private,
ventilated compartment.
Thoughtfully designed with clever pockets in
considerate places.
Surprisingly spacious. Dimensions: 17¾” x 12¼” .
Color: Black.
You’ll feel ready for Balanchine or Starbucks®.
Dancer’s Backpack.
Tatiana has been wearing
Gaynor Minden pointe shoes
since 2005.
$29.99
Another zipper flip-top
to main compartment;
no more rummaging.
Zipper flip-top
for instant accessibility.
Handy small zip
pocket right where
you need it for
keys, change, class
card, etc.
Elegant satin-finish
nylon is actually tough,
water-resistant, and
slides perfectly under
an airplane seat.
Literature pocket for
magazines, notebooks,
fan mail.
Padded shoulder straps for
total comfort. Adjustable
length so it’s right for you.
Large ventilating
mesh compartment.
Generous High
Security outer pocket
has both zipper
and Velcro® flap.
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
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The physical therapists at NYC Ballet
know your body better than you do.
“
“
The shape of my legs has changed,
the muscles have elongated and
become less bulky, as a result of
having to be ‘up on my leg’ in
Gaynor Minden.
They can teach you a thing or 2. Actually,
13 things.
13 dancer-specific exercises, using
Resistabands (special
giant-sized elastic straps)
that intelligently help you
increase your strength…
and your flexibility.
2 bands of different
resistances, and a nifty,
flip-card, illustrated
instruction booklet come
in a pouch designed to fit perfectly in your
dance bag. (Don’t have one? See our Dancer’s
Backpack).
The Dancer’s Dozen.
$14.99
— Vanessa Palmer
Soloist and Assistant Ballet Mistress,
The Royal Ballet
Quit stalling.
You could be next.
David Howard, America’s foremost ballet teacher,
has created two exciting do-at-home ballet class videos,
now re-edited and expanded to include The History of Toe
Dancing and Pointe Technique, lavishly illustrated with
rare photographs and footage, presented by Eliza Minden,
designer of the revolutionary Gaynor Minden Pointe Shoe.
(Along with valuable advice on pointe-shoe fitting and tips
on strengthening the feet.)
David Howard DVDs I and II. Take a Master Class
with David Howard, Intermediate Class I and II. Two
90-minute dvds.
$17.99 ea.
30
“
Gaynor Minden pointe
shoes are the wave of the
future. The old paste shoes
are going to go the way of
vinyl records.
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
“
Take a master class with the same man who
taught Baryshnikov, Makarova, Gelsey Kirkland,
Paloma Herrera, etc.
— David Howard
Internationally Renowned Ballet
Teacher and Coach
Pointe Shoe Accessories
In Gaynor Mindens I am free to take my
dancing to my highest possible level,
because I never worry about consistency,
durability, comfort, or quietness. I cannot
imagine going back to a traditional
pointe shoe.
“
“
— Alina Cojocaru
Principal Dancer, The Royal Ballet
31 31
Imagine life without them.
Double-faced. Soft.
And pale peach.
Almost good enough
to eat.
Custom-dyed
to match your
Gaynor Mindens.
Imported English Ribbon. Nylon. 2½
yards, ample for one pair of shoes, or by
the bolt: 50 meters (right).
Individual $3.35
Bolt$52.50
“
Secret European Elastic.
Principal Dancer, Béjart Ballet
Over “there,” the ballerinas
appear to be dancing in shoes
secured only by satin ribbon,
and they also appear to have
not the slightest worry about
their shoes slipping off.
The­“secret,” of course, is
Invisible Elastic, s-t-r-e-t-c-h-y, lace-like material that virtually
disappears next to tights. Works for technique slippers, too.
Imported European “Invisible” Elastic. Ample (30” long)
for two pairs of shoes.
32
$2.65
Since the day I tried Gaynor Mindens—
after trying almost every other pointe
shoe on the market—I have worn
no others.
— Luisa Diaz
“
Pale Peach Elastic– ¾” .
15 ” long, ample for one pair of shoes,
or by the bolt: 72 yards.
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
Individual $1.50
Bolt $39.99
Is Pain the Necessary Price
of Greatness?
Wanting comfort doesn’t make you a bad person.
Gaynor Minden’s Totally Toes Fitting Kit makes you feel
like you’ve been reborn with custom-made ballerina feet. A
breakthrough (it’s actually patented) in pointe shoe fit
and comfort.
No comparison to lamb’s wool, bulky toe pads, make-up
sponges, or any of those other antiquated desperation measures.
• Longer 2nd toe (a.k.a. Morton’s Foot)? Cool Blue
Gel Crescents redistribute the weight off of that poor,
vulnerable toe.
• Big toe taking all the abuse? Cool Blue Gel Ovals.
Instant relief. And a certain comforting “give.”
• Sensitive big toe nails? Try ingenious “Mushroom”
Micro-pads. Their only job in life is to protect that
crucial ½-inch of your body. Made of real *Poron®.
• Sliding down into the box? Stop the pain and chafe right
now. Poron®* Dynamic Box Liners hold your foot up and
out of the box on pointe (actually you have to hold yourself
up, but these will help keep you there). Then, the moment
you’re down, they compress so you can truly spread your
foot. That’s the “dynamic” part. Amazingly effective. Puts
the joy back in jumping.
Totally Toes Fitting Kit. Contains one pair each Cool Blue
Gel Crescents, Cool Blue Gel Ovals, “Mushroom” Micro-pads,
Dynamic Box Liners and clear, illustrated instructions.
$5.99
* Real Rogers Corp. Poron® has the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance.
33
Save skin, dishearten corns.
And while you’re at it, make bunions feel unwelcome.
No, this doesn’t require experimental treatment at some hush-hush clinic
in Switzerland.
All you need is Gaynor Minden’s
elastic microfoam
toe tape.
It protects and cushions.
It allows complete freedom of
movement.
It peels off without leaving sticky
residue.
This is the same soft, light, stretchy,
and resilient tape surgeons use.
Now it’s available to you.
Toe Wrap™. 5½ yards per roll.
$6.75
“
I am thrilled with the results.
Amazing as it sounds, they
have changed how I dance
and have certainly lessened
the pain I had in my feet and
ankles. A godsend!
“
—Tara Birtwhistle
Principal Dancer,
Royal Winnipeg Ballet
Tara has been wearing Gaynor
Minden pointe shoes since 2002.
Adjustable Toe Separator.
(because one size does not fit all)
Got a big space (smaller
than the Grand Canyon, but
still…) between your big toe
and your second toe? And is that
second toe by any chance on the
long side?
Too bad. That’s the ideal
arrangement for a non-hereditary
bunion and its unpleasant little
companions, the hammertoe and the soft corn.
You may know that a toe separator may help
prevent these sad developments. But perhaps you were
put off because they felt bulky or awkward.
That’s why we developed the adjustable toe
separator.
You customize it.
You decide what length
and—this is the crucial
part—what width suits
your own anatomy.
It’s simple—just peel, snip, then tape in place.
Toe Separators. Instructions included.
34
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
$4.50
Before each perfomance as I slip into my gorgeous
Gaynor Minden shoes I’m given the comfort of knowing
that my chosen pointe shoe will support my every move
with flexibility and responsiveness...a beautifully made
shoe that never lets me down.
“
“
—Irina Kolesnikova
Prima Ballerina of Konstantin Tachkin’s
St. Petersburg Ballet Theatre
Irina has been wearing Gaynor Minden pointe shoes
since 2002.
Stop feeling sorry
for dancers born with
gorgeous arches.
Transparent “Imperial” Elastic.
Fairy tales inspire great ballets. And now a great ballet
accessory: Transparent “Imperial” Elastic.
“Imperial,” in honor of the Emperor who had a suit of clothes so
fine that no one could see it.
Stretchy elastic, 7⁄8 ” wide, that’s as clear as Scotch tape. Utterly
transparent so that your
shoes seem to stay on all by
themselves.
You don’t need to see
it to believe it; our elastic
really does exist and you
really will dance...
happily...ever...after.
Transparent Elastic.
Color: none. Length: 30”;
enough for two pairs
of shoes.
Sympathy no longer needed.
Problem solved.
Gaynor Minden’s ingeniously simple
Vamp Elastic eliminates the curse of
“going over too far” or “popping out”…the punishments, once,
for those born with gorgeous arches.
The delay and expense of a remedial specialorder vamp is now unnecessary. Just stitch
Vamp Elastic in the throat
of your shoe and you’ll
get the same kind of extra
support that a deeper vamp
would provide—with
no compromise of demipointe flexibility, either.
Vamp Elastic.
Instructions included.
$3.75
$2.65
35
More gripping.
Less griping.
“
“
With Gaynor Mindens,
it’s easy for me to just think
‘Dance!’
— Zhong-Jing Fang
Corps de Ballet,
American Ballet Theatre
ZJ has been wearing
Gaynor Minden pointe shoes
since 2002.
The extraordinarily useful
Gaynor Minden Heel Gripper
actually keeps your shoes on
your heels.
The textured surface really holds
your foot.
The peel-and-stick backing keeps gripper locked in place.
And, by filling in the extra space around your heel, it makes the
back of the shoe beautifully smooth, sleek,
and free of lines and wrinkles. No Botox
required.
(Especially helpful for dancers with
narrow heels.)
Heel Grippers.
Aristocratic Sockliners.
We did it for you.
Suede Tips already built in.
Peachy pink suede to match
the satin.
No more cutting, gluing, waiting.
Darning? Forget about it.
Now you can preserve your shoes,
and your aesthetics. And your time.
All-terrain-tips for even longer
living shoes.
But we’d still rather that you not practice
fouettés on the sidewalk.
By Special Order. $10.00 additional
36
$2.99
For narrow, fine-boned feet (the
kind that grew up with nannies
and Shetland ponies.)
Gaynor Minden
recommends these particular
Sockliners as a very effective
and straightforward method
for reducing excess material
at heel and sides of shoe.
Full Sockliner.
$2. 25
Frequently Asked Questions.
1. Are Gaynor Mindens suitable for beginners?
Definitely. What’s important is that the shoe fit very well and
that the stiffness be appropriate for the dancer’s strength and size.
Gaynor Minden is especially beneficial for beginners because its
elastomeric box promotes proper alignment and correct technique.
The box minimizes “sickling” and “winging,” bad habits that can
stress the ankle and lead to injury. The box actually makes it hard
to roll up incorrectly because the elastomeric never wears down to
create an uneven surface as paste boxes do. The student uses and
develops the correct muscles to achieve full-pointe and once there
does not need to over-clench to maintain balance.
Finally, Gaynor Mindens are lined with soft, cushy materials.
They are comfortable. Painful pointe shoes can be so discouraging
that many girls stop enjoying ballet class and give it up altogether.
Yes, ballet is demanding and sometimes painful, but a great deal
of the discomfort associated with pointework is preventable.
Never fit with room to grow! A shoe that is too big, or too wide,
cannot provide proper support. It could lead to severe pain and
serious injury.
2.Won’t an unbreakable shank “do the work for me” and let my muscles grow weak?
An overly stiff shank of any brand could do this. If you feel you
are not being made to pull up out of the shoe, try a softer shank.
Remember, Gaynor Mindens do not break in, so be sure
to select a shank that is sufficiently pliable. Ask about Supple,
FeatherFlex, and Pianissimo shanks.
3.Why are Gaynor Mindens more expensive?
Actually, Gaynor Mindens cost less to use than other brands
because they last an average of 3 to 5 times longer. And longer still
if you protect the tips.
How? Patented Gaynor Minden is the only pointe shoe with
resilient elastomerics in the supportive parts of the shoe: the shank
and the box. Most other pointe shoes have a paste and cardboard
construction for those elements, as they have since the 19th century.
You can break such a shank in your hands; you cannot break or
weaken a Gaynor Minden no matter how much you bend it—go
ahead and try!
Elastomerics are more costly than cardboard and paste. Also,
Gaynor Minden is the only pointe shoe with high performance
impact-absorbing foam built right into the shoe. Not cheap latex,
this is the same urethane cushioning found in the very finest
athletic shoes.
Finally, Gaynor Mindens are handmade in the United States.
If you examine the stitching and workmanship we think you
will agree that our quality and consistency are unequalled. It is
more expensive to manufacture in America, but the result is a
superior product.
4.Why is shock absorption important?
Many dancers’ woes, whether mild aches or serious stress
fractures, are caused by the traumatic impact of jumping on hard
surfaces. Many dance floors are not resilient. Some are even made
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
37
from wood or linoleum laid directly on concrete. And most
theatres in the world were built for opera and drama, not dance.
Our cushions are made from real Rogers Corp. Poron 4000™
which carries the American Podiatric Medical Association’s
Seal of Acceptance.
5. If a dancer breaks shanks easily, should she wear Gaynor
Minden’s Hard Shank?
Not necessarily. Most dancers who use a hard shank in
traditional paste shoes do so because traditional shanks break
down so rapidly. Our shanks are unbreakable, they never soften
or weaken. Our ExtraFlex provides plenty of support for most
dancers, enabling them to enjoy the benefits of a light, flexible
shoe without compromising supportiveness. Our Hard shank is
extremely stiff, appropriate only for dancers with very high insteps,
or who require extra support for some other reason.
8.What is the right age to begin pointework?
Most students should not begin before age 10 or 12. Dancers
must train for several years in soft slippers, rising only to half-toe
(demi-pointe) before attempting to use pointe shoes. They must
learn to “pull up” out of the shoe, never allowing their full weight
to sink into it, and always maintaining the correct alignment of
spine, hips, knees, and ankles. A dancer who attempts pointework
before she has developed sufficient strength and technique and
before her bones have fully formed could seriously injure herself.
Everyone develops differently, this is a decision to be made by
parents and qualified teachers.
6. My teacher wants a really tight fit, why must Gaynor Mindens
have ¼ ” pinch at the top of the heel when on pointe?
Because Gaynor Minden will not change over time the way
traditional shoes will. The tight fit of a traditional shoe anticipates
stretching out and “mushing in.” Our satin is backed with a
moisture wicking lining, so it does not stretch the way other satin
does. Do not fit Gaynor Minden as tight as a traditional shoe.
7. Why do I need these extra cushions?
“
“
Every foot is different; not all are perfectly suited for
pointework. In the past such dancers were told to suffer patiently
until their feet toughened up. Now, thanks to advances in
technology, there are much better solutions. Gaynor Minden’s
system uses ultra-thin gel and urethane foams to customize the
fit and maximize comfort without compromising either floor feel
or snugness.
I’m so glad to have discovered Gaynor Minden.
I dance in them with confidence and joy.
— Yana Serebriakova
Coryphée, The Mariinsky Ballet
Yana has been wearing Gaynor Minden pointe
shoes since 2005.
38
To order call: 800. 637. 9240 / 212 .929.0087 / visit www.dancer. com / email: fitters@dancer.com
ew York Headquarters
N
Fax
212 .929.4907
Phone 800 . 637.9240
212 .929.0087
“
It’s easier to point, easier to
balance and turn, easier to jump—
and I love the sleek, arched look
they give my foot—I won’t dance
in anything else now.”
“
Contact Us
— Alina Somova
Soloist, Mariinksy (Kirov) Ballet
140 West 16th Street
New York, New York 10011
Email: fitters@dancer.com • Internet: www.dancer.com
uropean Office
E
Fax
44 01273 429 420
Phone 44 01273 429 429
Australian Office
Fax/Phone 02 9869 4722
Photos: All are by Eduardo Patino, NYC except: Eliza Minden photo by Edwin Gaynor,
Alina Cojocaru by Johan Persson; Mignon Furman, Tatiana Tkachenko, and Yana Serebriakova
by Costas, Luisa Diaz by William DuPont, Melissa Hayden and Cortney Connor by Rick
McCullough; Irina Kolesnikova by Nina Alovert; Tara Birtwhistle by Bruce Monk; Vanessa
Palmer by C. MacMillan; Yekaterina Shipulina by Alexandra; Anastasia Matvienko and Denis
Matvienko by Gene Schiavone; Alina Somova, Yevgenia Obraztsova, and Olesia Novikova by
Neff. Product photos by Paul B. Goode. Photo of Kathryn Sullivan taken at Steps Broadway.
Students courtesy of The School at Steps.
Front cover dancer: Anastasia Matvienko.
Back cover dancer: Yekaterina Shipulina.
Copyright © 2007
Printed in U.S.A.
39
140 West 16th Street
New York, New York 10011