The students take their spots at the barre. The mirrored wall reflects 21 dancers, elegant in their leotards, tights and ballet slippers, a few opting for gym shorts or sweats. Barres line up in ...

When Natalie Portman finally achieves perfection onstage in "Black Swan," it's hard to know whether to applaud or pity her. And who could leave inspired to take up ballet after seeing the Syosset ...