a question on pirouettes?

Ok so this is for all you dancers out there. I quit ballet when I was like 10 or 11 i don't really remember, but I'm going to be doing a talent show act with my friend, Meghan. It's going to be a contemporary dance, and It requires a double or triple pirouette. I can do a single. I used to be able to do a triple, but Now I can't even do a double

My main problem is balance, I usually have a good spot, and I have good momentum. It's just that by the time I get halfway through my second pirouette, I fall over.

If any of you guys could help me with my balance issues that would be extremely helpful! I'll pay 20 drachmas too ;)

I don't know how much of a help.I can be, considering the fact that I'm working on my own double myself. These things are a factor, I guess:

Pull down from your shoulder blades and make sure your arm muscles are working. When someone pushes your arms up, it shouldn't move. This should keep your upper body straight for a good balance.

Turn from your hip as well, don't rely too much on the motion from your arms to help you spin. If you do that too much, it can affect your balance. Arms closer to your body c:

Keep your standing leg completely straight. Sometimes it feels straight, but it may not be.

Also, lengthen your spine, like uh.. Tucking your butt in. Gah, I don't know how to explain this. It's like... tilting your pelvis upwards? It helps keep your body straight, and helps your balance.

This is usually what my teachers tell me, but if it doesn't help then... I don't know xD

Oh! Do you keep your hair in a tight bun? This may seem odd but, if you do, tie it higher c: that helps your center of balance or something.