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I have commented before on the apparently easy transition afforded ballerinas when they decide to take up action roles in film or television. The foremost example of this would of course be Jennifer Garner, but there are others too (e.g., Summer Glau). It might be that their specialized, extensive training gives them complete sovereignty over their physical self, and that the camera captures and somehow amplifies this. In any case, whatever the exact cause, one perceives something special when watching the ballerina-turned-action heroine perform—her movement is potent yet seamless and majestic, it has an almost mystical quality to it.

Amelia Cooke spent the better part of her youth as an aspiring ballerina: studying at the National Ballet of Canada for ten years, and touring with the company as well. What's more, in 1997, Amelia was given the "Outstanding Athlete of the Year" award in Toronto. Later she turned to modeling, then to acting. That has led, perhaps inevitably, to action roles. The following scenes from Alien Agent supply further testimony to the unique physicality of a trained ballerina:

Amelia is sometimes mentioned as a possible Wonder Woman, and she is one of the many excellent candidates listed in our poll. It seems to me that they could do much worse, and that Amelia might just be special enough for this special, all-important role.

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View Original Post at blog.athleticwomen.com

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robm says:

Hopefully I won't run afoul of etiquette by commenting on my own post. But it seems to me important to add that the casting sheet for "Wonder Woman" (the upcoming NBC television pilot) has been released, and that auditions are under way.

Judging by the description given for Wonder Woman in the casting sheet ("Amazon-like, muscular, an Olympian"), there is a very real possibility that the new Wonder Woman will be an athlete (or former athlete). Indeed, a few athletes have already been mentioned in association with the role (seen here).

Moreover, WTS athletes who fit the description and have an interest in acting might do well to contact NBC and/or Warner Bros. Television using the instructions provided on the casting sheet.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at 10:28am EST

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