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Tim Foster: The Shoe Colorist Behind NYC Ballet's Pointe Shoes

other · 2026-07-28

Tim Foster has worked as a shoe colorist for the New York City Ballet for 15 years, a niche role essential to the company's diverse repertoire. Most pointe shoes and ballet slippers are manufactured in pale pink, but Foster paints them in a rainbow of hues to match costume and lighting requirements. His work ensures that dancers' footwear blends seamlessly with their costumes on stage.

Key facts

  • Tim Foster has been a shoe colorist for New York City Ballet for 15 years.
  • Most pointe shoes and ballet slippers are manufactured in pale pink.
  • The company's repertoire requires a rainbow of hues.
  • Foster paints shoes to match costume and lighting requirements.

Entities

Artists

  • Tim Foster

Institutions

  • New York City Ballet
  • The New York Times

Locations

  • New York City

Sources