One of the subplots of Stars has to do with the body type of the main character, Soledad, and her career aspirations in ballet. To put it bluntly, she’s not a dainty girl and she’s well aware of this and determined to succeed, if only through sheer will and ability.
I was asked some questions, early on, as to the accuracy of my portrayal of ballet as a harsh mistress– one that could take an enormous toll on the body and mind, and how the “typical” dancer was envisioned.
I defended my portrayal because I’d done my research.
And now, a New York Times ballet critic also helps me to defend my portrayal, by saying that this year’s Sugar Plum Fairy for the New York City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker, “looked as if she’d eaten one sugar plum too many.”
Watch the interview with the ballerina in question, Jenifer Ringer, and watch her dance, and tell me she looks fat.
Barbara Ferrer 