1
(PEOPLE CHATTERING)
All up in the cipher but
don't know where to start off
Oh, you know what it's
about, raising the bar up
You're square and givin' 'em
something they can't fake
What you been waiting for?
Your moment on center stage
They gonna wanna test you
Moments like this will
bring out the best in you
Them moves better hit,
you're getting higher points
For the one with
the greatest risk
You just might miss
Take it on the chin,
you just might get dissed
Follow in the paths
the great ones done laid
Along this the heavyweights
With their lives on blast,
performing on center stage
Diligent,
you got to have skill in it
You always got to be
killing it
Don't be afraid
to break it down
When it's time
to rebuild again
Now you're the hottest in
there, no use in concealin' it
Hard work is paying off,
big baby
You got it made
Everybody's seeing you
shining on center stage
You ask me what's the purpose
This ain't no everyday
average three-ring circus
I said
What you got
Show me what you got
Go, ladies
Go, go, go, ladies
One, two, three
One, two, three
Ladies, ladies, ladies
Everybody in the cipher got
to know what their worth is
Or whether they're worth this
'Cause the truth, you grab
the feet and just work it
Just work it
Just work it
Just work it Like that
Just work it
Just work it
Just work it
Just work it
One, two, three
ALL: Five, six,
seven, eight, nine...
10, 11, 12, 13!
(CROWD CHEERING)
I love you, guys.
(GIVE IT ALL I'VE GOT PLAYING)
Not gonna do it right
till I'm doin' it all
My chance, way out
from where I come from
Step forward, my feet
in motion
You're doing so good, Bella.
Bring your hands up
through first, and open.
How am I gonna learn
if you're not here?
Just do what I did.
KATE: You can learn
from the videos.
You learned from Mom.
The tapes help. Trust me.
It's all I want, all I want
It's easy to believe
Give it all I've
KATE: Dad, I'm leaving.
She's going to the
American Ballet Academy.
KATE: I'm gonna
miss you so much.
Me, too. I love you.
I love you, too.
Give it all I can
I'm gonna take a chance
'Cause it's easy to believe
It's easy to believe
It's all I want, all I want
It's easy to believe
Excuse me, which floor
is the audition on?
Give it all I've got
Following pointe auditions,
we'll continue with adagio,
then we'll pair you
for the pas de deux.
I'm gonna need
you into two lines.
Boys in one, girls in the other,
starting with the
tallest to the shortest
and remember who
you're paired with.
JONATHAN: At best, I can
take six girls and six boys.
The final decisions will
be posted this afternoon.
We have very limited space for a
very limited number of students.
As you know, this is the
finest academy in the country.
We value talent,
discipline, respect...
COOPER: And a love of dance.
Also a good thing.
And on a very good day,
we even value Cooper Nielson.
JONATHAN: Please welcome one of our
esteemed judges and instructors.
You have 15 minutes to warm up.
A love of dance.
I was moved nearly to tears.
Hey, we're creating artists,
not robots.
And besides, I'm here to bring some
life back in this place. Remember?
You're here because your
company ran out of funding
and you needed the job.
Hey, it's a give
and take situation.
So, nothing's changed, huh?
I give and you take
and take and take.
First position. Demi-plie.
JONATHAN: Tendu front.
Demi-plie. Tendu back.
Demi-plie. Tendu. Stay on your
standing leg, don't hang on the bar.
Miss... Von Stroh.
Richard's daughter?
Yes, sir.
Nice port de bras.
Watch your alignment.
Miss?
Parker. Kate Parker.
Billy's daughter.
JONATHAN: Now the other side.
(WHISPERING) Classy.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
Kate Parker? How you doing?
Good.
All right, you're gonna be
dancing here with Mr. Webb.
Nice to meet you. You, too.
Okay, sorry. Let's stop.
One more time from the top.
Ready?
And five, six, seven, eight...
MALE STUDENT:
That is perfection.
Look at those legs.
One of the best dancers, I hear.
TOMMY: Really?
What else you know about her?
Her?
Look at him.
Hey, nice form.
"Nice form"?
(WHISPERING)
What is she thinking?
She's already a whale.
We have one last
spot to fill for a girl.
Here are the top contenders.
Suzanne Von Stroh,
Kate Parker, Lily Green.
I just don't think that Green
has the feet or the body.
Agreed. I vote
to lose Parker, too.
I disagree.
Suzanne Von Stroh
has perfect form.
Perfectly boring.
She's a classic prima ballerina.
I see a lot of potential there.
Yeah, potential funding.
Well, unless we figure out a way
to turn this whole thing
into a reality show,
academies need funding.
You should know that
better than anyone.
The Parker girl's got
something, Jonathan.
She's got passion.
She's too raw.
She'll refine her skills
in the classroom.
She had plenty of time
to refine her skills.
And she's going to
need a scholarship.
Look, Suzanne has
excellent technique
and she might be
a superior dancer,
but how many Suzannes
do we have here?
What'll she bring to the table?
How about Sleeping Beauty?
How about Swan Lake?
How about Giselle?
How about Twyla Tharp?
Bob Fosse? Jerome Robbins?
Can't we do something that's
from the last 50 years?
Tommy.
Excuse me, sorry.
Yes!
When it gets hard
and I cannot cope
Reel myself out
on a long thin road
Floating away
in the slightest breeze
Too out blue,
flight of fantasy
My feet leave this earth
so easily
(CELL PHONE RINGING)
Just turn around
say goodbye to me
Hey, Bell.
Yep. Nailed it.
Just like you said I would.
Here I come
Hold me down, I'm a balloon
And I'll fly away
If you don't hold me down
KATE: I'd like an application.
We're filled up
for the semester.
We require at least
one year of formal training.
I just need a chance to...
I need a current resume,
three references and a DVD reel
including an adagio, pirouette
exercises and a classic variation.
You. Run towards me, take off on
the left, right leg in arabesque.
Well done. Suzanne, right?
Suzanne Von Stroh.
COOPER: Okay. Listen up.
Dancing is not only about focus,
precision and perfection.
Dancing is about connections.
Connecting with your audience,
connecting with your partners.
So, over the next
several classes,
you'll be dancing
with different partners
until we find the right match,
one that has connection.
Not only a physical connection,
but also an emotional one.
All right?
Okay, let's go. Pair off.
Hi. Hey, what's up?
Mr. Nielson. I'm Kate Parker.
I auditioned for you
the other day.
I remember.
I was hoping I could speak
with you about my audition.
Miss Parker, this is the
best school in the country.
We're extremely selective.
I know.
There are other schools.
But I've been dreaming of
studying here since I was a kid.
I understand that.
I'll work harder
than anyone else.
I mean, if there's
something I did
or something
I screwed up, I'll fix it.
Miss Parker, I'm sorry.
I really am.
To be honest with you,
I think you've got
a lot of talent.
But there's nothing I can do.
Miss Parker. Tell me something.
Why do you think you didn't
get into this place?
Was it because
you're not as good
as the other girls
that auditioned?
Apparently I'm not.
If you really believe that,
then maybe you should go back to
wherever it is you came from.
Tough first day?
Oh, crap.
KATE: The Foundry?
I doubt it's your scene.
A girl like you.
A girl like me?
It's just different than
this place. That's all.
It's loud and sweaty.
And that's your scene?
Yeah.
What's that look for?
Sorry I bugged you.
I'll see you at class.
Where's my car?
Hey.
Hey!
I think you guys
have got my car.
It's a '88 Jimmy.
Michigan plates, right?
Yeah.
Three hundred bucks. Cash only.
Three hundred bucks?
You're kidding, right?
Do I look like
Eddie Murphy to you?
Don't you turn me upside down
Don't you try to stay around
And feeling fine
like you're the best
But you never know
Can I have a beer?
BARTENDER: Here you go, Tommy.
Thank you very much.
Hey.
Hey.
I'm Kate, by the way.
I'm Tommy.
Let me guess. Cosmo.
Um...
Vodka tonic?
A ballerina who drinks beer?
That's awesome.
Can I get another one, please?
Sure.
Cheers!
Wanna grab a seat?
Yeah.
This place is pretty dope, huh?
It's not really
my scene, remember?
(TOMMY LAUGHING)
Is that your girlfriend?
Lexi? No.
She's dating my buddy Sal.
He owns this place.
She seems to be pretty
interested in you right now.
I think they're
just sizing you up.
See what you're all about.
Maybe I should show them.
(HIP-HOP MUSIC PLAYING)
Hey!
Dance? Yeah!
(UPBEAT REGGAE MUSIC PLAYING)
We burnin'
(CROWD CHEERING)
We burnin'
We burnin'
You know her?
Apparently not.
Move your body, boy
Move your body, girl, move your
body, girl, move your body, girl
Wind it, wind it
Move your body, girl, move your
body, girl, move your body, girl
Wind it, wind it
We burnin', we burnin'
(CROWD CHEERING)
That was pretty sick.
Thanks.
I don't think there
are too many girls
at the Academy that can do that.
Yeah, well...
Maybe that's why
I didn't get in.
For real?
I don't know what brought you
here, but I'm glad you came.
Kate, my buddy Sal.
So, where did you learn
how to dance like that?
I could use some of that
energy around here.
Can you start tomorrow?
Seriously? Doing what?
We're a new club. You do it all.
You in?
Yeah, I'm in.
All right.
Be here at 6:00.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
One, two, three, on her leg.
Five, six, seven, eight.
Nice and sharp.
COOPER: Two, three, four.
Okay. Okay.
(MUSIC STOPS)
Allison. Switch with Suzanne.
COOPER: One more time from the top.
Hey there.
Let's hustle. Six. Ready.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
COOPER: Seven, eight, and a one,
two, three.
The second lift was really good.
It was pretty good, huh?
(SUZANNE CHUCKLING)
Hey. You two get comfortable.
I'm gonna pair you
together this semester.
Nice.
Tommy, come with me.
See you.
Why don't you try
your solo for me?
Okay. Yeah. Yeah?
Give it a shot.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
COOPER: Okay. Stop. Stop.
(MUSIC STOPS)
Not bad.
You know what?
Maybe it'll help if you
just take a look at it.
Okay.
And.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
Wow!
I can tell you
one thing for sure,
it doesn't get any easier.
No, man. That was amazing.
All right. Thanks.
I know you haven't been dancing
as long as the other guys.
That's fine.
I'm willing to put in the work.
I know you are. Okay.
But to get to the top, you're
gonna have to find something
that you may not be able
to learn in the classroom.
Like what?
Like passion. Fire.
Fire?
You wanna be a guy that
brings the crowd to its feet.
Yes, I do.
How do I do that, exactly?
Look outside the box.
Find that special someone or
something that gets you excited,
that truly inspires you.
Like Suzanne?
Hey, if Suzanne's it, great.
She's a good dancer, which is
why I paired you together.
But?
But if she's not, get creative.
That's what an artist does.
And when you find it,
make it your own.
All right?
(DANCE MUSIC PLAYING)
Here you go.
WOMAN: Thanks.
Hey. Hey.
Do you want something?
Actually, I've got
a favor to ask you.
You got me a job and
now I owe you favors?
No.
I've seen you move and I
was hoping for some help.
You've seen me move?
What kind of help do you need?
I need help with pas de deux.
Pas de deux?
Yeah. Couples dancing.
I know what pas de deux is.
I'm not dumb.
Okay, well, I suck at it
and I need some help.
Well, that's why
you're at the ABA.
Yeah, I know.
They'll give me steps, but they
can't give me what I really need.
And what do you really need?
Fire.
What?
My instructor told me
to find fire.
What? And I look like two
sticks you can rub together?
Kind of.
Good luck with that one.
Forget I asked.
KATE: Hey, Tommy. If you still need
my help, I need some extra cash.
Okay. Where?
What about here?
It's got to be off campus.
I have keys to the club.
I don't know
about the club either.
Well, that's about all I got.
No wait, hold up.
The club will work.
Hey. Hey.
What's up?
Not much.
Just trying to warm up.
Are you all stretched?
And ready to go?
Yeah. Good to go.
Liar. Okay.
Let's see what you got.
Wait, wait, wait.
Keep your hands here,
on my waist.
Almost. Let's try that again.
Better. How did you
get into this anyway?
You don't really
strike me as a dancer.
They taught us ballet
at hockey camp.
Helps strengthen our ankles
and work on balance.
So, you're a hockey player.
All-State, two years in a row.
And now you're a ballerina.
It's "ballerano."
Okay, let's try a lift.
One, two, three.
Yeah. So, after
my third concussion,
I figured I'd try
something else.
And badminton never came up?
An instructor pulled me
aside and promised me
hot girls wrapping their
legs and arms around me.
Look, if that's what you're here
for, go find somebody else.
I'm not here to screw around.
Okay, I'm glad we settled that.
And what about you?
You don't seem like
the typical ballerina.
I don't puke after every meal
and have a giant stick up my
ass, if that's what you mean.
Oh.
But full of grace.
That was better.
A little.
Got the one, two
And you see me
Open up, you'll free me
Life in one time
Get it with your mind right
Get it with your mind right
Get it on your, get it on your
Get up on your, get up on your
Get up on your
One, two, three, you repeat
And one, two
I've got you
If you let me clear your mind
You got to open up your heart
You got to open up your mind
Lift leg, one, two
Open up your mind,
and get it right
You might get it right
You might get it tight
KATE: Okay, we have got
to get serious here.
Dancing is about trust.
And connecting.
Okay. We can connect
any way you want.
Calm down. Let's try
some different music.
You've got to get
out of your head.
(LOOSEN UP PLAYING)
Stop thinking and
just try to feel it.
All right.
Close your eyes.
So you loosen up,
you know you're good
You know we're gonna
take it higher
You've got to put away
the guilty pain
We'll dance the rhythm
of the rain outside
Let it go,
yeah, you can let it go
Let it flow through your body
Let it move through your soul
Just a groove now,
everybody move now
Spark it like
you're everywhere
You're better when
you just groove it out
I can slow it down,
I can speed it up
I can work it out,
love it when you work me up
Shorty, ain't you feeling me?
Getting lost in the rhythm,
that's how well it be
And I ain't playin',
I ain't flossin' for you
I'm a hustler,
I'm hustlin' for you
Yeah, you got a mile,
I'm gonna walk it for you
Stick with the flow,
keep it comin' for you
Loosen up,
you know you're good
You know we're gonna
take it higher
You've got to put away
the guilty pain
We'll dance the rhythm
of the rain outside
The vibin' is driving me crazy
Okay, we can get loose
Playing it real loud,
better do what you do
Nice with the rhythm,
I got the moves
Don't mess with them
other boys
I am the truth
Truth be told
I'm feeling how you windin'
Like a stop watch,
top notch with that timin'
Temperature risin',
ain't no disguisin'
In fact got an act
but that ain't surprisin'
Loosen up,
you know you're good
You know we're gonna
take it higher
(SAL CLEARING THROAT)
Hey, Sal.
What's up, guys?
Just thought you might want to
grab a beer or shoot the shit.
The vibin' is
drivin' me crazy
It's perfect.
COOPER: Thank you. That's all for today.
Nice work.
Tommy. Suzanne.
I don't know what you've been
doing, but you look good.
Really good.
Thank you.
I think I'm gonna talk to
Jonathan about the two of you.
See if he can recommend you to Monica
Strauss for The Glass Slipper.
Great. Thanks.
Yes! That's awesome.
What's The Glass Slipper?
Tommy, Monica Strauss is the cutting
edge ballet producer right now.
And she's an ABA alum.
She's doing The Glass
Slipper for Broadway.
It's kind of a reinvention
of Cinderella.
This is huge. Oh my God!
We've got to celebrate.
I'll take us to China
Grill and we can have...
I haven't had Chinese
food in forever and...
Actually, I can't.
I already have plans.
Well.
Aren't you the busy one?
Can I get a rain check?
Definitely.
Hey, what's up?
We should go out tonight.
Find out where Tommy's going.
(ROCK MUSIC PLAYING)
This place is pretty nice.
SAL: Whatever!
I watched that game.
You didn't even play.
Tommy. Suzanne. Hi.
Hi.
What are you guys doing here?
We make it downtown
every once in a while.
So, how about some drinks?
Drinks. Yeah, definitely.
Come on.
So, what can I get you guys?
I'll have a Cosmo.
Make that two.
Vodka tonic.
Should have guessed.
Can I get two Cosmos
and a vodka tonic, please?
You got it.
Who's that? Your fan club?
She looks familiar.
No way.
Hey.
You were at the ABA
auditions, weren't you?
I haven't seen you
in class, though.
I guess it wasn't
a good fit, huh?
Aw.
Well, at least you have
this to fall back on.
TOMMY:
Here's your drinks, ladies.
(EXCLAIMING)
Here you go. SUZANNE: Cheers!
DANCER: Thanks, Tommy.
(HIP-HOP MUSIC PLAYING)
(CROWD WHOOPING)
(CHEERING)
We're ready, ready
and we're gonna take it on
See me blowing up the scene
Like a tropical storm
Step in, step in,
marchin' on the floor
What are you doing?
Dance with me.
That's awesome. See you later.
Oh, no, no, no.
If it's too high we go over it
And if it's too low
we get under it
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't sweat the technique
Ding-a-ling-a-ling,
step in the ring
From the crowd,
call me win it like bingo
Heavy, heavy,
must get them when you don't
I'm the wickedest one
And while you're
hanging, hanging
To my work coattail
Move so funny,
better start learnin'
Fresh, fresh
your technique so stale
Me reckon how you
talented, my little toenail
If it's too high we go over it
And if it's too low
we get under it
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't sweat the technique
When you're ready, ready
we're gonna take it on
See me blowing up the scene
Like a tropical storm
Step in, step in,
marchin' on the floor
I'm about to set it off,
send you crying home to mom
When you're ready, ready
gotta give me a blazing
The women bust a rhythm,
say the skin is amazing
I'm gonna take it, take it
and rise up the occasion
You get licked, don't try
to come out the equation
If it's too high we go over it
And if it's too low
we get under it
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Don't, don't, don't
Don't sweat the technique
Technique
Technique
Can I help?
Don't you have curfew?
You're such a rebel.
You want to grab
dinner tomorrow night?
I'm working.
Okay, lunch.
Working.
Okay, now you're just lying.
This place doesn't
even open till 8:00.
Actually, I got another gig.
A catering job with Lexi.
Okay, well,
when's your next night off?
Everybody takes a night off.
Cooper says I'm improving.
You are.
Thanks to you.
Now I just have to convince
them I'm good enough
to be recommended
to Monica Strauss.
What?
You know all The Glass
Slipper posters around town?
Monica's casting that show.
I think you need to lower your
shoulders and lift your chest.
Really?
Yeah.
Try it like that.
One compliment and
now you're the expert?
Last I checked, neither of
us fell into that category.
Yeah, but you hired me.
I didn't hire you.
Maybe you should.
All right, Baryshnikov.
Let's get back to reality.
I'll show you Baryshnikov.
Come on.
You did it again.
Did what?
If you're gonna audition
for next semester,
you could use
a little extra practice.
I think once was enough. Again.
Are you kidding me?
Again.
One rejection and
you're gonna quit?
I've had plenty more than
one, thank you very much.
Okay, but you realize that's
what this business is about.
Rejection after rejection
after rejection.
Thanks for the tip.
You're welcome.
If you don't have thick skin and serious
drive, you can just give up now.
Serious drive?
You woke up one morning
and decided to be a dancer
and six months later, you're at
the best school in the country.
You have no idea what it's like
to work your entire
life for something,
and then have no control over
whether you get it or not.
What are you talking about?
Do you know
how long I played hockey?
Do you know how many times I
got smashed into the boards,
hoping some scout might find me?
Yeah. And you walked away.
I didn't walk away.
I made a choice.
I didn't let somebody
else make it for me.
What do you care, anyway?
Because you're good.
You're so good.
You know,
I thought I was good.
I was so sure I just had that thing
that everyone always talks about.
So I packed my bags,
came to New York
and I gave it everything I had.
And guess what?
No one else sees it.
My father didn't see it.
Jonathan Reeves doesn't see it.
If no one else sees it,
you got to think,
maybe it's just not there.
SAL: Hey.
Why don't you take tonight off?
What?
We can get by
without you for a night.
You work too hard.
I work too hard?
What kind of crap is that?
Hey.
I just thought
you could use a night off.
Sal, if there's something
I did or some...
Kate!
Put down the glass
and come back tomorrow.
Fine.
All right.
TOMMY: Hey.
Hey.
So, are you free for dinner?
What did you tell Sal?
I told him an ambush was my
only hope of taking you out.
Can I at least go home
and change first?
Yeah. Of course. Come on.
Okay.
Reservation for
two under Anderson.
Right this way.
So, what are you gonna get?
Fettuccine's pretty banging.
So, do you have any
brothers or sisters?
Yeah, actually. I have
a little sister who's 13.
Is she as cute as you?
She's way cuter than me.
That's hard to believe.
What about you?
Do you have any siblings?
Yeah. I have a little brother.
Really? Does he dance?
No. He's a hockey player.
Do you want him to dance?
Not really.
Why?
I don't know. It was
kind of difficult for me,
turning from a hockey player to a
ballet dancer who wears tights.
Yeah, but that's what you love.
I mean, if you really love it,
you shouldn't care
what other people think.
You're right.
KATE: I bet your hockey friends
loved it when you started dancing.
TOMMY: I don't know.
Come on,
all those big macho guys.
They'd give you crap if you
did anything in tights.
I guess I'm lucky.
Have they ever seen you perform?
No.
Well, they should.
I mean, you're really...
I'm really what?
You're all right.
All right?
You're not so bad yourself.
Really?
Yeah, you know, for a girl
with no formal training.
Hey!
It's okay. You've got
something better.
What's that?
Fire.
Not that again.
Yeah, you know, like two
sticks I wanna rub together.
Shut up.
What are you doing? Tommy?
Just close your eyes.
Close your eyes!
That looks good.
It does, huh?
Are you gonna give me some?
No.
TOMMY: Is that your sister?
Yeah, it's Bella.
She must miss you.
I miss her.
I bet she's proud of you.
I haven't really done
anything to be proud of.
What do you mean?
Well, I mean, all I wanted
to do by coming out here was
to show her she could do
anything she wants.
And I couldn't do it.
Just trying is all
she needs to see.
Look, I got to
get back to the dorm.
Wild flowing fields
Photographs of paper planes
And you love me
Watching the sunrise
Pockets filled with
forget-me-nots
That say you love me
All along
You were here to stay
Never noticed
Till you said I love you
on a paper plane
You said I love you
on a paper plane
La la la la la la love
Hey, Bell, it's me.
How are you?
I miss you, too.
Lifts up my feet
To show me you love me
La la la la la la love
La la la la la la love
Hey. Hey.
It's nice weather, huh? Mmm-hmm.
It's freezing.
Let's get some lunch.
Okay.
So I was thinking.
Uh-oh.
You were right.
I do need some help.
So, does this mean you're reapplying?
Mmm-hmm.
That's awesome.
TOMMY: Seven, eight.
And a one, and a two,
and a three, four, five, six,
seven, eight, lift. One, two.
Stay on your foot. Three, four,
five, six, seven, eight.
What is this? Payback?
I'm just getting started.
Other side. Six, seven, eight.
And a one, two, three,
four, five, six...
All right, let's begin.
Okay. TOMMY: First position.
Demi-plie.
And grand plie.
And straighten. You've got to
straighten the back of your legs.
They are straight.
Try it again.
Hey.
Let's go
Jump up
Let's go
Jump up
Let's go
Oh, shit!
INSTRUCTOR:
Prepare. Seven, eight.
And one, two, three.
Keep reaching with the toes.
Good.
Six, reach, seven,
eight and one,
and lift.
Tommy, take your place,
please. Quickly.
Let's go again, from the top.
Seven and eight and one,
two, three. Nice.
Tommy and Suzanne,
you're a second behind.
And reach.
Nice. And lift.
Oh, fuck.
I'm sorry. Are you okay?
I'm fine.
Rest.
What happened?
I don't know.
My arm slipped and...
Just make sure that you
keep your center strong.
Okay, people, one more time
from the top. Quickly.
And seven and eight.
And reach, two, three.
Sorry again.
I guess my arm wasn't
positioned properly.
Your arm?
Give me a break, Tommy.
Excuse me?
Do I look stupid to you?
Suzanne, my arm slipped.
It happens.
It's hardly the problem.
There's a reason we have curfew.
What are you talking...
This is my career, okay?
So I don't give a shit what you're
doing until all hours of the night,
until it affects my chances
of getting what I want.
This has nothing to do with you and me.
It doesn't?
No.
We are partners,
for better or worse.
So you screw up,
then you make me look bad.
And I will not let you blow my
shot for some late night partying.
What's up, ladies?
Tommy, Mr. Reeves would like
to see you in his office.
JONATHAN: Mr. Anderson.
How are classes going?
Pretty good, sir. Thank you.
Cooper tells me you
and Suzanne Von Stroh
are working very well together.
That's good to hear.
That is very good for you.
What do you mean?
Suzanne Von Stroh's family
is extremely powerful.
Her father
singlehandedly supports
a substantial
portion of this academy.
Really?
And she enjoys dancing
with you very much.
That's mutual.
Good.
Because I think the two of you
could go very far together.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
So don't blow it.
Sir?
Which part of "don't blow
it" didn't you understand?
Tommy, I want to
see you succeed here.
But you got to stay focused.
No distractions.
I understand.
Good.
Thank you. Next, please.
(WHISPERING)
That's Monica Strauss.
Tommy Anderson and
Suzanne Von Stroh.
You were really strong in there.
Thanks.
Hey, listen. My father's
hosting a function tomorrow
and a lot of his friends from the
arts community will be there.
Cool. Have a good time.
Actually, I was hoping
you might wanna come.
Tomorrow...
I don't know if I can.
Monica Strauss will be there.
I'm sorry. I let it slip that
you've been coming in late,
but you have a lot of potential
and I just don't want
to see you blow it.
Let me make it up to you.
You don't have to...
Tommy, you know how hard
this business is.
I'm just...
I'm giving you an opportunity
to make it easier.
Besides, it'll be fun.
What time does it start?
My daddy's driver
will pick us up at 6:00.
I wish we could just go back
to bed and sleep all day.
I can't. I told
Lexi I'd cover for her.
Plus, you have that
school thing, anyway.
Yeah. I know.
They weren't lying.
That place owns you 24/7.
What's this thing for, anyway?
Just another rich guy trying
to impress his friends.
Daddy.
Darling.
This is Thomas Anderson.
He's my partner at the Academy.
Tommy, please. Nice to meet you, sir.
Thank you for having me.
Thank you, young man.
Suzanne tells me she couldn't
have asked for a better partner.
I feel the same way, sir.
Hello.
Monica.
Tommy and Suzanne
are quite the pair.
Very promising. Perhaps they'll
show you what they've been doing.
I insist.
Of course, Daddy.
I'll be right back.
So, are you a hockey fan?
Ladies and gentlemen,
it is my pleasure to introduce
my lovely daughter Suzanne
and her escort, Thomas Anderson.
They'll be dancing Tchaikovsky's
Black Swan Pas de Deux.
(CLASSICAL MUSIC PLAYING)
What are you...
It's okay. Just come on.
(GLASS SHATTERING)
Tommy...
Kate, stop.
Something for school?
Look, it's not what you think.
What would I be thinking?
She's my dance partner.
Her family's well-connected.
She wanted me to come so I could
meet some important people.
So you're using her.
No.
Just like you've been using me.
Jesus, Kate, I'm not using you.
So, what? I'm dress rehearsal
and she's opening night?
Kate, please.
Save it, Tommy.
(DOOR SLAMS)
Hey.
You okay?
Yeah.
What's up with
the crowd tonight?
We're dying here.
Sometimes you're on,
sometimes not.
We're definitely not.
Hey. Remember that first
night when you came in
and got the crowd moving?
Yeah.
Would it kill you
to do it again?
It might.
You can handle it. You're tough.
(TECHNO MUSIC PLAYING)
(GROANING)
What?
That's what!
You really know how to work a crowd.
Cooper.
We met before.
I know who you are.
I'd like to see some of that
energy back at the Academy.
I hear you're reapplying.
Who told you that?
I have my sources.
I think you should.
We'll see.
So. How are you with a partner?
I can hold my own.
Yeah? Yeah.
Come on.
Let me teach you
how to swing it
I got that good foot moving
Just gotta love
the way I swing it
Girl, move, don't stop,
keep moving
Let me teach you
how to swing it
I got that good foot moving
Just gotta love
the way I swing it
Girl, move, don't stop,
keep moving
Come on, teach me
how to swing it
I got my body moving
Just gotta love the way I move
Boy, move, don't stop,
keep swinging
Come on, teach me
how to swing it
I got my body moving
Just gotta love the way I move
Boy, move, don't stop,
keep swinging
Here we go now
Here we go now
It's cool 'cause
you learn to swing it
Get in enough trouble swinging
Got you in the mood,
I'm like red wine
Swing, baby, swing
'cause tonight you're mine
Gonna make your whole world
stop and scream
It's better than nothing
On the good foot
as long as I can
Swing, baby, swing,
yes, swing that move
Picture me
on the hot lead dancers
The faster they get
for making that thing
Don't stop, yeah
Swing, baby, swing
Swing, baby, swing
Swing, baby, swing
Swing, baby, swing
I got my swinging dance
I'm here to swing all night
Is that all you've got?
And here you go now
Here we go now
Come on, teach me
how to swing it
I got my body moving
Just gotta love
the way I move it
Boy, move, don't stop,
keep swinging
Come on, teach me
how to swing it
I got my body moving
Just gotta love
the way I move it
Boy, move, don't stop,
keep swinging
Let me teach you
how to swing it
I got that good foot moving
Just gotta love
the way I swing it
Girl, move, don't stop
keep moving
Let me teach you
how to swing it
I got that good foot moving
Just gotta love
the way I swing it
Girl, move, don't stop,
keep moving
Swing, baby, swing
Swing, baby, swing
Here we go, hey
Here we go, hey
Here we go, hey
Here we go, hey
Here we go, hey
Here we go, hey
Here we go, hey
I'll speak to you outside.
You were right.
The girl can get down.
Yeah.
Thanks for the heads-up.
Well worth the trip.
What the hell was that?
Dancing.
There's nothing going on
between me and Suzanne.
She kissed me in front
of a roomful of people,
what could I have done?
So I guess now we're even.
Kate, why are you doing this?
We have something.
Ready? Yeah.
Damn, you were hot in there,
and I see a lot of dance.
You really think so?
Of course, it might be
those beautiful eyes.
Or that smile.
But yeah.
It's also your dancing.
Tommy was right about you.
Tommy?
Yeah. He asked me to come
down here and check you out.
I'll be sure to
thank him tomorrow.
You know, I don't think
this is such a good idea.
Sure it is. I mean, if
you're worried about this
affecting your audition
or something...
No.
Look, it's just not right.
Okay.
I guess I'll see you tomorrow
at the audition, then.
Out of my head
Come and help
Wanted one more touch
But you know I knew
exactly what's up
Wasn't fooling myself
Don't you think that I knew
You're the rainmaker
'Cause I know what you do
Bring it down,
the heartbreaker
Don't you think that I knew
You're the rainmaker
How I'm not confused
by this game
Make it rain, make it rain
Don't you think that I knew
JONATHAN: Congratulations.
The four of you are here today
because Monica would
like each of you
to audition tomorrow
for The Glass Slipper.
There's absolutely no guarantee
that any of you will be hired.
However, you will have a private
audition before the open call.
And Cooper and I will make every
free moment we have until then
available to you.
Make sure you get there with
plenty of time to warm up.
Right now,
I've got to go and run
next semester's
Academy auditions.
INSTRUCTOR: All right. All right,
line up for lunges, ladies.
Come on, let's go.
Looks like your
friend's a no-show.
Yeah. Looks like it.
That's such a pretty scarf.
Thank you.
So, you're friends
with Monica, right?
I guess she didn't want
it that bad after all.
You ready? Yeah.
Hi.
What was that all about?
Nothing.
SUZANNE: So, we should rehearse
for the auditions tomorrow.
Does that sound good?
Definitely.
Nice. And I was thinking
maybe we could go to dinner,
'cause you know,
you gave me a rain check.
Do you remember that?
Yeah.
I know I said Chinese food, but I
really don't want Chinese food,
because it makes me bloated,
but maybe we should do
the cafe across the street
from the Academy on 64th.
They have the best
thin-crust pizza.
I'll catch up
with you in a minute.
Okay. Well...
What about our rehearsal, Tommy?
Is your name Bella?
Yeah.
Are you looking for your sister?
She dances here.
Is her name Kate Parker?
Yeah.
I'm Tommy.
I'm good friends with her.
We practice a lot together.
Is she here?
I don't think she has class today,
but I can help you find her.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
(KNOCKING ON DOOR)
What are you doing here?
(CHUCKLING)
She showed up at the Academy.
I told her you didn't
have class today.
Thank you.
You should have called.
How did you get here?
The bus. I missed you.
I missed you, too.
Hey, do you want to
check out my new apartment?
Look, about the other night
with me and Cooper.
It's none of my business.
Nothing happened.
Nothing.
You don't believe me, do you?
No, I believe you.
Look, you should go in there.
She's been dying to see you.
Tommy.
I just wanted her to
believe it could happen.
Yeah, but you got to believe it.
BELLA: So, do you dance here?
Yeah, every night.
And there's really good music and lots
of lights and people and... Yeah.
You got your reasons
You know I don't approve
And you believe it
There's nothing I can do
My head is seizing
Your mind's stuck
in a groove
Hey, guys.
Hey.
Hey, does she have ID?
That's my sister, Bella.
Do I have to hire her, too?
It's just for the night and
then we're gonna go back home.
Home? Detroit.
Has this got something to do
with that crap with Tommy?
It's about a lot of things.
What's going on?
We're leaving.
But I just got here.
And you said I could
come stay with you.
Bella, please.
Let me just watch one class.
I promise I'll be quiet.
I just want to see.
You can't.
Why not?
Because I'm not taking classes.
I didn't get into the Academy.
I auditioned.
But I didn't get in.
Look, there's a bus
to Detroit in two hours.
We're gonna be on it and I'm
gonna get my old job back
and that'll be that.
Two hours?
Tommy said you were gonna...
Look, Bella, I don't
wanna hear it, okay?
Just pack your stuff.
(GRUNTING)
TOMMY: Cab's here.
SUZANNE: Do you have your shoes?
Yep. Good boy.
Where'd you get that?
Tommy gave it to me.
He says it's an open call
and that you should go.
Yeah, well, he's wrong.
But you'd be perfect.
No, I wouldn't. Why not?
Bell, do you have any idea
how many people are
auditioning for this thing?
You're so good.
Back home in the
parking lot, I'm good.
But this is just so different.
Would you stop
looking at me like that?
Do you really think
I can do this?
Excuse me, I'm here
for the open call.
Back of the line.
Thank you.
We're gonna miss our bus.
There's another one tomorrow.
Well, look at you, smarty pants.
Tommy!
Hey. Hey.
What are you doing?
Come on, come here.
Kate, Tommy's here.
Hey.
Hey.
You changed your mind?
Mmm-hmm.
All right. Well, kill it.
I will.
TOMMY: See you later.
BELLA: See you.
Next 20. Girls only.
This is it.
I'm with her.
MONICA:
Thank you all for coming.
At present,
we're looking to cast
Cinderella and her stepsisters.
MONICA: My associate Nick Hoffman
will take you through the routines.
Hello, ladies.
Follow me from the top.
Glissade, jete, glissade, jete,
tombe, coupe, pas de bourree, brise.
Got that? Here we go.
Seven and...
Glissade, jete, glissade, jete,
tombe, coupe, pas de bourree, brise.
Let's go again. From fifth.
Glissade, jete...
Turn out that supporting leg.
Let's try it again.
Six, seven and...
Glissade, jete, glissade, jete,
tombe, coupe, pas de bourree, brise.
NICK: Good.
Let's see it all together.
From the top,
five, six, seven and...
Glissade, jete, glissade, jete,
tombe, coupe, pas de bourree, brise.
Good, switch lines.
Five, six, seven and...
Glissade...
Come on, jump higher.
Come on! Up! Up! Good.
343, 91, 752, 288,
could you please step forward.
We see potential in each of you
and would like to see you
back here this afternoon.
Don't forget to bring
a current picture and resume.
And plenty of energy.
You'll need it.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
39, flawless technique.
Number 39, Miss Von Stroh,
please step forward.
It's nice to see you.
MONICA: Your resume is
extremely impressive.
Thank you.
You've been taking dance class
since you were 3 years old.
My father saw potential, so he
put me in classes right away.
And it shows.
Thank you, Miss Von Stroh.
Thank you.
752, what's your name, please?
Kate. Kate Parker.
We seem to be missing
your resume, Miss Parker.
It's because I don't have one.
I'm sorry?
I don't have one.
KATE: I mean, I could give you
a separate sheet of paper
with my name and
measurements on it,
but I figure you
already have that.
What about your schooling?
Your teachers?
I haven't had any worth
mentioning since I was 12.
I just taped productions off
TV and mimicked what I saw.
I have one of you
dancing Giselle.
And why is it you never
took formal classes?
My dad figured his money was
better spent on lottery tickets.
And that's why you
started with the tapes.
You do what you
got to do, you know?
Yeah. We do know.
Thank you, Miss Parker.
That's admirable.
NICK: Okay,
we need 825, 752, 758, 39...
Harris will be dancing
the pas de deux with Allison.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
Thank you.
Thomas.
MONICA: Or is it Tommy?
It's Tommy. Thank you.
I'd like to see you with
Suzanne Von Stroh, please.
(PIANO MUSIC PLAYING)
Let's see what they do.
(AUDIENCE APPLAUDING)
(24 PLAYING)
I'm not alone
I sense it
I sense it
Been given 24 hours
To tie up loose ends,
to make amends
His eyes said it all
I started to fall
And the silence deafened
Head spinning round
No time to sit down
Just wanted to
run and run and run
Be careful they say,
don't wish life away
Now I've one day
I can't believe
How I've been wasting my time
In 24 hours they'll be
Laying flowers on my life
It's over tonight
I'm not messing, no I
Need your blessing
And your promise to live free
Please do it for me
(AUDIENCE CHEERING)
I'm not alone
I sense it
I sense it
All that I said
I meant it
I meant it
And I can't believe
How much I've wasted my time
In just eight hours they'll be
Laying flowers on my life
It's over tonight
I'm not messing, no I
Need your blessing
And your promise to live free
Please do it for me
In just one hour they'll be
Laying flowers on my life
It's over tonight
I'm not messing, no I
Need your blessing
And your promise to live free
Please do it for me
(AUDIENCE APPLAUDING)
(CHEERING)
We did it.
Hey. Kate.
I just wanted to tell
you I really thought
that I deserved this part,
but you are just...
Suzanne. No, it's okay.
But you earned it. You were beautiful.
Good job.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Bella.
Good job, man.
TOMMY: Thanks, bro.
What did you think?
You were so good.
I love the ending.
Do you want to take my flowers?
Yeah. They're so pretty.
Mr. Reeves.
You were excellent. Both of you.
Thank you, sir.
Tommy. Hey, man.
I remember you auditioned
for me, Miss Parker.
I did. Last semester.
I'm sorry it didn't work out.
We could have learned
a lot from each other.
Thank you, Mr. Reeves.
Next time someone
like me tells you
you're not what they're looking
for, remember this moment.
'Cause whatever you had to do
to get through that
and end up here
is exactly what it takes
to be great.
You should be
very proud of yourself.
I'd better go
give your dad a call
and tell him he's
already won the lottery.
Good night. Bye.
I'm so proud of you.
(ALL APPLAUDING)
(CHEERING)
You love city lights
How they shine
in the dead of night
Always so far away
One key and it comes alive
One dream and you realize
You're on the
The road that leads you there
Will it ever be the same?
Will it ever be?
Your wonderful life
Is passing you by
Now's the time
to learn to heal
Give into the light
And learn how to fly
You belong to all you feel
You belong
A friend of mine said
just the other day
Your whole world
Is just round the bend
If you don't yield
to the right of way
Your old ways
Will lead you to an end
Will it ever be the same?
Will it ever be the same?
Will it ever be?
Your wonderful life
Is passing you by
Now's the time
to learn to heal
Give into the light
And learn how to fly
You belong to all you feel
You belong
All your life you never fit in
You long for something real
Give it all
to feel a little bit
Living up to nothing
Never knowing just how much
You belong
Will it ever be the same?
Will it ever be the same?
Will it ever be?
Give into the light
And learn how to fly
You belong, yeah
You belong
You belong
You