[mezzo_soprano]

I needed some advice about Character Shoes?

WHAT SHOULD I BE LOOKING FOR?

I am not a dancer, however I do have to dance in shows.


Help?

[LadyOfTheLake]

If you want long-lasting shoes, I suggest Capezios (http://www.capeziostore.com/category-s/31.htm).

I have three pairs of character shoes: tan, black, and black t-straps. I wear the tan ones the most, but it's useful to have black. However, I'd say go with tan, because they're more versatile.

[SomeoneLikeYou]

Mine are tan-colored with t-straps as well. Although it's more of a dark tan.

[mezzo_soprano]

I was actually thinking Capezios. T-straps too. But I was thinking black, just because I wear dark colors and so black would go with more for auditions and such. I found a pair on sale. Like MAJORLY on sale.

Anyone else have any thoughts? Heels? Color? Strap?

[BwayJuvinile]

Goodluck on buying htem online. Size charts suck for dance shoes.

[Elphaba22]

T-strap. I have tan and black, the tan ones have 3 inch heels, the black ones have shorter heels. Black ones are Capezio, tan are LaDucas. I can't say enough about how much I love my LaDucas, but they are very expensive (over $200), and you don't really need them if you aren't in dance-heavy shows.

[mezzo_soprano]

Two. Hundred. Dollars?

[SmallTownIngenue]

I have tan Blochs, but after 3 shows, they are pretty beat up. I'm going to need to get some new ones that last for college.

[bittenbythetheatrebug]

http://www.capeziostore.com/Capezio-Jr-Footlight-p/550.htm

Those are the ones I have. I've had them for years and except for polishing, I've never had any issues with them.. They've held up beautifully through years of theater and ballroom dancing. They're quite amazing, cheap, and REALLY comfortable!

[wicked_diva]

I have tan 2" t-strap Leos, black mary-jane 1.5" Capezios, and black t-strap 2.5", which I think are Blochs. I love my Leos. They're super comfortable, and I've worn them a whole lot for a little over 3 years now. They're still in fine working condition, though the exterior is pretty scuffed because I did the splits in them a lot. I use them for pretty much all rehearsals, have used them for two semesters of acting, and for one show. For dance auditions, I use my Blochs, since they create the best line.

Just a note, go as high as you think you can. The only reason I didn't go for 3" is because I'm already really tall, and it just wouldn't have been practical. Also, please please don't use character shoes for singing/acting auditions. Lastly, be prepared that you may very well be required to buy a specific look or color shoe for the shows that you do. So if you don't need these shoes right now, I would wait until your director or costume designer tell you what they want for your next show.

[mezzo_soprano]

Thanks for the advice everyone.

I am buying these because most shows I am in require you to get your own shoes. Usually we are asked to get flats, but they are A. Hard to dance in and B. Not gonna cut it in community theatre. (And anything that gives me training in high heels will help for me)

And 2 inches is the tallest I can go as I am 5'10".

[wicked_diva]

Limit yourself to 2.5, rather than 2. It's amazing how much that extra .5" helps your leg line. And this is coming from someone else 5'10."

If most of your shows want you to dance in flats, then I don't see why you need character shoes for them. If you want character shoes strictly for dance auditions, I recommend 2.5" black t-straps.

[Adie]

[mezzo_soprano]

Actually looking at a $10 pair. Capezios. T strap. Jazzy approved.

[mezzo_soprano]

Stuck between Capizio jr. footlights and leo t straps.

[idTAPthat89]

I have three pairs of Capezios and LOVE them!

[sweetsoprano]

I feel like out of all those brands, Capezio definitely lasts the longest, so I would go with those!

I'm getting my new LaDuca's next week - black ones, and tan ones!! Mine are so shot.

[mezzo_soprano]

Ended up getting the Leos as I wanted the T strap. Thanks for all the help