So how many of you watch Ballet West’s reality show, Breaking Pointe, on the CW?

I must admit, despite the lack of dancing and frequent “scriptnyness” (yes, I just made that word up, go with it), Breaking Pointe is a guilty pleasure of mine.  Not because of the struggling romances or catty dancers all vying for the same part, but because I can relate to so much of the company life that really makes up the bulk of the show.  The tension during casting week, the constant uncertainty of status, the strict hierarchy, the fear of being displaced the following season, the exhaustion and frustration of long rehearsals, the disappointment of being overlooked…it’s all too familiar.  Feeling the need to finally speak out about her reasons for supporting the production of Breaking Pointe‘s second season (despite the disapproval of much of the ballet-involved public), company member, Allison Debona posted a lengthy status on her Facebook fan page prior to the reality show’s season 2 premiere.

Shedding light onto an issue most people are completely naive to, Allison bravely discussed the financial struggles shared by ballet companies around the country.   She also points out the high level of responsibility and maturity involved in pursuing ballet as a career.  Allison draws attention to the fact that the dancers on the show are all human, and with that comes mistakes, obstacles, and drama.  While these issues may not be directly addressed on the show, giving ballet exposure on such a large scale could lead to a greater understanding of the “mysterious” profession, snowballing its popularity and perhaps saving this beloved, yet slowly corroding art form.  Huffington Post wrote an interesting article in response to Allison’s bold status.  Read it here, and let me know what you think!