Comments on: The Pointe Shoe Makers of Hackney

By: Richard Smith

Richard Smith — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 11:23:45 +0000

I simply love everything about this blog: the skilled craftsmen and their character, the shoes which are truly a work of art, the idea of the dancers thanking the shoe makers with such gratitude. Thank you.

By: Loren

Loren — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 05:00:02 +0000

I love this. Before I retired, I wore triangle shoes. Simply wonderful!

By: Bristol_Fashion

Bristol_Fashion — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 11:40:30 +0000

Very interesting… the story of hidden talent. Similar at Algha (spec makers). So touching to hear of pride and skill. The other side of the coin to the dancers. And interesting too that both dancer and shoe-maker both in their own way, suffer for their art. I found the story quite emotional to read. Thanks to all involved.

By: jan ovenden

jan ovenden — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 13:17:16 +0000

What a wonderful story. I will have to check the bottom of my daughters point shoes. A truly wonderful insight into the beautiful point shoe. I think a pink satin point shoe is truly a thing of beauty. thank you so much. I always wanted to dance and i still have a thing for ballet shoes.

By: Mary Fritz

Mary Fritz — Sun, 06 May 2018 14:56:43 +0000

This article made me cry with respect for their hard work and excellent craftsmanship that give tools to our dancer’s feet. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

By: peter bowes

peter bowes — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 03:14:34 +0000

Good afternoon …. I have a couple of questions about the equipment used making ballet shoes in the 1940’s, in particular the methods used by touring groups, the Ballet Russes in particular.
Many thanks ..
pete

By: jackie

jackie — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 06:04:32 +0000

What a wonderful article. They are truly great men, whose talent is appreciated by dancers the world over ever day.
I always bought Freed pointe shoes when I was taking dance classes. I bought one pair of Capezios when I couldn’t get a pair of Freed’s in my size, & they didn’t even last one class. I have forgotten now which was my favourite maker.

By: Mira Taylor

Mira Taylor — Sun, 24 Jul 2016 21:49:28 +0000

Lovely article. Love those guys! I always had Freed shoes when I did ballet as a kid. I loved the dancer logo on the sole in her ‘frou-frou’ tutu–didn’t realise the makers have their own hallmark stamp–fascinating!

By: Jennifer French

Jennifer French — Tue, 31 Mar 2015 17:33:07 +0000

I am truly moved by this article. It is such a treat to be able to see the behind the scene of such a complex process. It is nice to hear that the men get commended for the painstaking work they put into the shoes, as they deserve. They are right, no shoes = no dance. Thank you for this post!

By: Amanda

Amanda — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 21:51:33 +0000

I am so jealous.. I would love to make ballet shoes. In fact I have unhealthy fetish about ballet shoes and just love the look, feel and smell of them. I have several pairs of pointe shoes and I don’t even dance.