L'Esprit (a short story): The Ballet Series

By Amy Shomshak

A Parisian encounter that will change Gina's life.

After six months of performing classical ballet in Paris, Gina finds herself sitting for Laurent in his studio. His quick sketches reveal a young dancer grieving her past. The two walk through Paris to a museum famous for its Impressionism collection. As she studies the paintings with Laurent, Gina reveals experiences which have shaped her present, leading her to what is next in her young life. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: John Gaspard
• Release date: Aug 31, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223475200

Book preview

L'Esprit

L'Esprit

A Ballet Series Short Story

Amy Shomshak

Contents

L'Esprit

About the Author

Grand Jeté Chapter One

Read the Rest of Grand Jeté

Arabesque

Acting Can Be Murder

Join The Newsletter

L'Esprit

Friday's class at the Parisian ballet academy École de Danse was over, the last one of the week. Gina's teacher stood by the piano as students of the academy filed out of the studio. She waved Gina over.

Madame smiled at seventeen-year-old Gina, holding up a photo taken in class the week before. Le photographe de la semaine dernière, il était ici encore avant le cours. Il a encore laissé des photos de vous.

The pianist nodded and translated for Gina, The photographer who was here last week came in today before class. He left photos of you again.

Merci, madame, Gina politely addressed her teacher. Turning to the pianist she asked looking worried, Should I take the photos? Why does he do this?

The pianist smiled, You are of interest to him. He has not tried to meet you or hurt you. It is good, mademoiselle. The photos are there for you to take.

Gina was now alone with the pianist. She knew his name was Laurent, as madame often addressed him during class, asking for certain tempos or pieces. Laurent, thank you. I did not know if I should be worry whether or not he is a good person, or someone I should look out for.

As the curly dark -haired young man gathered up music sheets he said, I see that Mademoiselle Tina is no longer here in class with you.

No, since she is in the Paris Opera Ballet company, she now takes class at the Opera Garnier. I am not in the company, so I am not allowed to take class there. I am only allowed here, at the academy.

Because you are an American?

Gina picked up her dance bag, putting