To Phoebe and Zoe, as they are the inspiration behind Magic Ballerina.
Table of Contents
Rosa and the Magic Moonstone
Welcome to the world of Enchantia!
I have always loved to dance. The captivating music and wonderful stories of ballet are so inspiring. So come with me and let’s follow Rosa on her magical adventures in Enchantia, where the stories of dance will take you on a very special journey.
p.s. Turn to the back to learn a special dance step from me…
In the soft, pale light, the girl stood with her head bent and her hands held lightly in front of her. There was a moment’s silence and then the first notes of the music began. For as long as the girl could remember music had seemed to tell her of another world – a magical, exciting world – that lay far, far away. She always felt if she could just close her eyes and lose herself, then she would get there. Maybe this time. As the music swirled inside her, she swept her arms above her head, rose on to her toes and began to dance …
The group of girls crowded into the changing rooms, chattering loudly.
“I can’t believe we’re going to be doing the exam tomorrow!” Olivia said.
“I know,” replied Rebecca. “I’m really nervous.”
“I’m scared stiff,” agreed Asha.
Rosa Maitland looked at her friends in surprise. “But why?” She twirled round before sitting down and starting to untie the ribbons on her red ballet shoes. “I’m looking forward to it.”
Rosa loved dancing in front of people. She didn’t care whether it was her teacher, Madame Za-Za, an audience at a theatre or an examiner in the ballet studio. She just loved to dance!
“But what if we go wrong?” said Olivia. “What if we forget everything?” “Why would we?” Rosa said. “We’re just doing the same exercises we do every lesson for Madame Za-Za. Stop worrying about it.”
She got changed out of her leotard and after saying goodbye to Olivia and the others, she headed home. Rosa only lived around the corner. As she let herself into the house, her mum came into the hall in her wheelchair. Mrs Maitland had once been a ballerina, but then a car accident had ended her career. She still loved ballet, though, and often helped Rosa.
“How did the exam practice go?” she asked.
“Great.” Rosa smiled as she remembered. “It was cool dancing with a proper pianist playing and Madame Za-Za said I did my dances really well.”
Mrs Maitland nodded. “How about your barre work?”
“Easy peasy!” grinned Rosa. She took hold of the kitchen door handle with her left hand and raised her leg to the retiré position, bringing her right arm above her head, just like she would have to do in the exam. “Everyone else is really nervous, but I don’t know why. I’m sure we’re all going to pass.”
Her mum looked anxious. “Rosa, it’s really great you’re not worried about the exam, but remember things can go wrong. If they do you must just keep on going and not give up. Don’t expect to get everything right.”
Rosa smiled confidently. “I’ll be fine!” She danced into the kitchen. “What’s for tea, Mum?”
“Pasta,” said Mrs Maitland, following her. “Will you set the table, please, while I heat the sauce?”
Rosa nodded and started to get the cutlery out. “What mark do you think I’ll get for the exam?” she wondered.
Her