The latest step in Japan's Westernization is an entrechat. In Tokyo alone there are an estimated 600 ballet schools, where round-faced girls in soup-bowl haircuts and black leotards are stretching their bodies at exercise bars. On the sidelines most mothers nod approvingly, but some older Japanese nurse a suspicion that the strange movements will make the girls barren. Ballet movies are a sensation, and at least one of them (Red Shoes) started a teen-age craze .for carrying ballet slippers, whether the owners were studying ballet or not. Dozens of school companies present productions...
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