As the curtains draw back and the lights dim, there is a certain ethereal aura that descends upon the stage. The dancers gracefully take their positions, their movements a beautiful rendition of art in motion. This is the magic of classical ballet, a form of dance that has captivated audiences for centuries. From its origins in the French court to its modern-day interpretations, the world of classical ballet is a graceful and elegant world all its own. In this article, we will explore the history of classical ballet, iconic ballets, famous choreographers and its legacy, delving into a world that has awed and inspired generations of audiences.
The History of Classical Ballet
As we delve into the world of classical ballet, it’s important to understand the rich history behind this timeless art form. Ballet has evolved vastly over the centuries, but its roots can be traced back centuries ago. From its origins as a form of entertainment in the French court to its influence on modern dance, classical ballet has become a cornerstone of performing arts. If you’re interested in learning about the history of ballet and how it has transformed over time, check out our in-depth article.
Origins of Ballet
The origins of ballet can be traced back to 15th century Italy, where aristocratic weddings were celebrated with lavish entertainments featuring music, dance, and poetry. These entertainments, known as balletti, were highly formalized and often based on ancient Greek myths and legends. They were performed by amateur dancers and musicians and were meant to showcase the participants’ grace and refinement.
Over time, the art of balletti spread throughout Europe and became more elaborate and professional. In France, the court of King Louis XIV played a major role in the development of ballet, as the king was an avid dancer and performer himself. He founded the Académie Royale de Danse in 1661, which established standards and techniques for ballet training and performance. Ballet became a highly respected art form and was performed primarily in court theaters.
By the 18th century, ballet had spread to other European countries, including Russia and England. New styles and techniques were developed, such as the en pointe technique, where dancers dance on their toes, and the use of tutus and other elaborate costumes. Ballets also began to tell more elaborate and complex stories, often based on historical events or literary works.
Despite its popularity in the 19th century, ballet faced a decline in the early 20th century due to changing cultural and artistic trends. However, it experienced a revival in the mid-20th century, thanks in part to the work of innovative choreographers like George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins.
Today, ballet remains a popular art form and is performed by both professional companies and amateur dancers. It is also enjoyed by audiences around the world, and many famous ballets and dancers have achieved international acclaim.
Developments in the 19th and 20th Century
During the 19th and 20th centuries, classical ballet underwent a major transformation. Ballet became more intricate and expressive, incorporating more complex movements and character development. Choreographers began to experiment with new forms and styles of ballet, resulting in a range of sub-genres such as Romantic ballet, neoclassical ballet, and contemporary ballet.
Romantic Ballet: In the early part of the 19th century, Romantic ballet emerged as a reaction against the heavy, formal structure of classical ballet. Romantic ballet focused on the supernatural and mystical, with ethereal heroines, fanciful sets and costumes, and a focus on the emotions of the dancers. Ballets such as Giselle and La Sylphide exemplify this style.
Neoclassical Ballet: In the mid-20th century, neoclassical ballet emerged as a response to the growing interest in more abstract and geometric forms of dance. Neoclassical ballet emphasizes clean lines, angular movements, and technical precision. Choreographers such as George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins helped popularize this style, with ballets such as Serenade and Fancy Free.
Contemporary Ballet: In the latter part of the 20th century, contemporary ballet emerged as an even more experimental and boundary-pushing form of dance. Contemporary ballet incorporates a wide range of styles, from classical ballet to modern dance, and often features unconventional music and costumes. Famous choreographer William Forsythe helped popularize this style, creating works such as In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated and Artifact.
These new forms of ballet, along with the continued popularity of classical ballet, have allowed the art form to stay fresh and relevant to this day. Whether you’re a seasoned ballet aficionado or a newcomer to the art form, there’s always something new and exciting to explore in the world of ballet.
If you are interested in learning more about classical ballet, check out our articles on famous ballet dancers, classical ballet dance class expectations, or ballet training for kids. To learn more about famous ballet companies, visit our article on famous ballet companies. And for tips on choosing the perfect ballet shoes, check out our guide to choosing ballet shoes. Finally, don’t forget the health benefits of classical ballet dancing and some of the most common classical ballet moves and positions you’ll encounter in class!
Iconic Ballets
When we think of classical ballet, certain timeless pieces come to mind – performances that have been captivating audiences for centuries. These ballets, each with their own distinct story and choreography, have become iconic in their own right, continuing to be performed by ballet companies all over the world. From the enchanting tale of a prince and a cursed swan, to the fantastical journey of a young girl and her toy soldier, these ballets have stood the test of time, leaving us in awe of the skill and beauty of the dancers who bring these stories to life. Let’s delve into the world of classical ballet and explore some of the most iconic performances in the art form’s history.
Swan Lake
One of the most beloved and iconic ballets in the classical repertoire is “Swan Lake,” which premiered in 1877. The original choreography was done by Julius Reisinger, with music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and has since been adapted and reimagined by countless choreographers.
The story of “Swan Lake” centers around a young prince named Siegfried and his doomed love for Odette, a princess who has been cursed to live as a swan by day and a woman by night. The evil sorcerer Von Rothbart has placed the curse on Odette, and Siegfried, entranced by her beauty, tries to break the curse and save her.
One of the most famous scenes in “Swan Lake” is the “Dance of the Four Little Swans,” where four dancers, dressed in tutus and feathered headpieces, perform synchronized movements to represent the swans in flight. The dance is one of the most challenging in the ballet repertoire, requiring precise footwork and coordination.
Overall, “Swan Lake” is a breathtaking display of classical ballet technique and storytelling. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the art form’s ability to capture our imaginations and transport us to other worlds.
| Character | Dancer |
|———–|————-|
| Prince | Mikhail Baryshnikov |
| Odette/Odile | Natalia Makarova |
| Von Rothbart | Anthony Dowell |
| Benno | Simon Dow |
| Queen | Galina Samsova |
The Nutcracker
“The Nutcracker” is a two-act ballet originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov with music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It was first performed in 1892 in St. Petersburg, Russia. The ballet is based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.”
Act I: The ballet opens on Christmas Eve at the Stahlbaum family home, where family and friends gather for a party. Clara, the Stahlbaum’s daughter, receives a nutcracker as a gift from her godfather Drosselmeyer. After the party, Clara falls asleep with the nutcracker and dreams that the living room is transformed into a magical forest.
Act II: Clara and the Nutcracker Prince journey to the Land of Sweets, ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy. They are greeted by various confectionery characters such as the Snow Queen, the Waltz of the Flowers, and the Arabian dancers. Clara and the Prince dance together, and the ballet ends with Clara waking up and realizing it was all just a dream.
“The Nutcracker” has become a beloved holiday tradition for many, with countless productions performed each year in various countries. Its popularity can be attributed to Tchaikovsky’s beautiful score and the charming story, as well as the intricate and exquisite choreography.
Fun fact: The first performance of “The Nutcracker” was not well-received, with critics criticizing the ballet for being too “childish.” However, the ballet gained popularity in the following years and eventually became a holiday favorite.
Sleeping Beauty
One of the most famous ballets, Sleeping Beauty is a magical tale that enchants audiences with its beautiful choreography and stunning music. Written by French author Charles Perrault in the 1600s, the story tells of a princess cursed at her christening by an evil fairy to prick her finger on the spindle of a spinning wheel and die. However, a good fairy intervenes and alters the curse, so that the princess will sleep for 100 years, awakened only by a true love’s kiss.
The ballet adaptation of Sleeping Beauty is known for its impressive sets and costumes, particularly in the grand palace scene of Act 1. The music, composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, is also a masterpiece, with its well-known Waltz and Adagio movements.
The ballet was originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg in 1890. Petipa’s choreography is known for its intricate and demanding movements, particularly in the intricate variations of the fairy-tale characters, such as the elegant bluebird and the playful Puss in Boots.
Sleeping Beauty has since been adapted and re-staged by many other choreographers, including Rudolf Nureyev and Kenneth MacMillan. Despite the variations, the ballet remains a staple of the classical ballet repertoire and is beloved by audiences around the world.
Here is a table detailing some information about Sleeping Beauty:
| Composer | Choreographer (Original) | Premiere Year | Company |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky | Marius Petipa | 1890 | Mariinsky Ballet |
Don Quixote
One of the most popular and well-known ballets in classical ballet is Don Quixote. This ballet is based on Miguel de Cervantes’ famous novel “Don Quixote de la Mancha” and is set in Spain during the 17th century. The ballet tells the story of Don Quixote, a nobleman who becomes obsessed with chivalric romances and sets off on a series of adventures with his loyal squire Sancho Panza.
The ballet was first choreographed by Marius Petipa with music by Ludwig Minkus and premiered in Moscow in 1869. Since then, it has been staged and revised by many choreographers in different versions. However, Petipa’s original choreography is still considered the most faithful to the story and the most popular version of the ballet.
The story of Don Quixote is full of adventure, romance, and humor. It features a colorful cast of characters, including the spirited Kitri, her lover Basilio, the comical Sancho Panza, and the villainous Gamache. The ballet includes a number of memorable dances, including the famous “Don Quixote Pas de Deux”, in which the two leads perform a dazzling duet filled with lifts and turns.
The ballet’s popularity and enduring appeal can be attributed to its exciting and colorful choreography, as well as its unforgettable score composed by Minkus. Don Quixote has become a staple in the classical ballet repertoire and is a favorite among audiences and dancers alike.
Below is a table summarizing the key details of the ballet Don Quixote:
| Year of premiere | Choreographer | Composer | Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1869 | Marius Petipa | Ludwig Minkus | Spain, 17th century |
Giselle
When it comes to the world of classical ballet, one cannot forget the iconic ballet – Giselle. This romantic ballet tells the story of a peasant girl named Giselle who falls in love with Albrecht, a nobleman disguising himself as another peasant. When Giselle discovers Albrecht’s identity and that he is already engaged, she dies of a broken heart and becomes a spirit that protects and avenges other broken-hearted women.
The ballet was first premiered in 1841 in Paris, and it remains popular to this day. The hauntingly beautiful score by Adolphe Adam captures the emotions of the dancers and audience alike. The choreography, originally by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot, has been altered and refined by numerous choreographers over time, ensuring its longevity as a beloved classic.
One of the striking features of the ballet is the use of a corps de ballet, who play the role of the Wilis – spirits of women who died before their wedding day. In Act II, the corps de ballet join together in mesmerizing unison to create a haunting and eerie atmosphere as they dance Giselle’s spirit along with them. This is a prime example of how ballet can use the collective power of the dancers to tell a story and create emotion.
Overall, Giselle holds a special place in classical ballet history as a ballet that combines both striking choreography and a poignant story. It has become a performance that audiences eagerly anticipate and dancers strive to perfect, cementing its place as one of the greats in the world of classical ballet.
| What | When | Where |
|---|---|---|
| First premiere | 1841 | Paris |
| Genre | Romantic ballet | – |
| Story | A peasant girl, Giselle, falls in love with a nobleman, Albrecht, who is disguising himself as another peasant. When she discovers his true identity and that he is already engaged, she dies of a broken heart and becomes a spirit that protects and avenges other broken-hearted women. | – |
| Composer | Adolphe Adam | – |
| Choreographers | Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot (original), with alterations by numerous choreographers over time | – |
| Corps de ballet | Plays the role of the Wilis – spirits of women who died before their wedding day. In Act II, they dance Giselle’s spirit along with them. | – |
Coppélia
One of the most beloved and enduring ballets in the classical repertoire is Coppélia. This charming full-length work features a delightful score by composer Léo Delibes and tells the story of a mysterious toy-maker and his life-like creation. First premiered at the Paris Opera in 1870, Coppélia has been performed countless times in the ensuing 150 years and remains a favorite of audiences around the world.
The ballet was choreographed by Arthur Saint-LĂ©on, who collaborated with composer Delibes on the project. The libretto was based on two stories by E.T.A. Hoffmann, “Der Sandmann” (The Sandman) and “Die Puppe” (The Doll), which also served as source material for other famous works like Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker and Offenbach’s opera The Tales of Hoffmann.
The story of CoppĂ©lia centers around a young couple, Swanilda and Franz, who live in a small village overseen by the imposing Dr. CoppĂ©lius. Franz becomes infatuated with CoppĂ©lius’s beautiful doll, thinking that she is a real person, and is willing to do anything to win her over. Meanwhile, Swanilda and her friends discover the truth about the doll and try to save Franz from making a fool of himself.
One of the standout elements of CoppĂ©lia is its charming and colorful sets and costumes, which transport audiences to a fantastical world of toy soldiers, dancing dolls, and medieval villages. The ballet also features a number of memorable dances, including the lively mazurka that opens Act III and the playful “Doll Dance” performed by Swanilda to fool Franz into thinking she is the doll.
Despite its lasting popularity, Coppélia has undergone a number of revisions and reinterpretations over the years. Notably, George Balanchine created a streamlined version of the ballet for the New York City Ballet in 1974, which focused less on the story and more on the dancing. Today, Coppélia remains a beloved classic of the ballet world, capturing the hearts and imaginations of audiences young and old with its timeless tale and enchanting choreography.
To better understand this ballet and its plot, let’s take a look at a brief summary of the story:
| ACT I | Franz, a young village boy, becomes smitten with a beautiful and life-like doll that is created by the strange inventor Dr. CoppĂ©lius. He sneaks into the inventor’s workshop to get a closer look at the doll, but when Dr. CoppĂ©lius discovers him, Franz is forced to hide in order to escape. Eventually, Franz’s true love Swanilda appears, and the two share a dance before the festivities come to a close. |
| ACT II | Dr. CoppĂ©lius has invited Franz into his home, hoping to use him as the final component in his plan to bring his mechanical doll to life. Meanwhile, Swanilda and her friends are curious about the inventor’s workshop and sneak in to investigate. There, they find the doll and Swanilda decides to dress up as it in order to trick Franz. When Dr. CoppĂ©lius discovers the ruse, chaos ensues. |
| ACT III | The villagers celebrate the arrival of their Burgomaster with a grand festival, featuring a display of toy soldiers and a lively mazurka dance. When the real Doll appears, Franz is set to marry it, but Swanilda reveals herself and confesses that she was the one behind the deception. Dr. Coppélius, heartbroken that his creation was not real, destroys his own workshop. In the end, Swanilda and Franz are reunited and the townspeople celebrate their love with one final dance. |
Famous Choreographers
As we delve deeper into the world of classical ballet, we can’t ignore the masterminds behind the dances we adore. These creative innovators have shaped the art form and established its foundation, inspiring generations of dancers and choreographers to come. With a wealth of talent to choose from, we’ve selected a few of the most influential choreographers in classical ballet history to highlight their grand contributions. Their distinctive styles and masterpieces have left an everlasting mark on the ballet world and continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Marius Petipa
Marius Petipa was a French ballet dancer and choreographer who revolutionized the classical ballet in Russia during the late 19th century. He created some of the most celebrated ballets of all time, including Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker.
Petipa was born in France in 1818 and began his dance career at a young age. He danced in various European cities before working as a ballet master in Belgium and later in Russia. In 1862, he joined the Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg and became the principal choreographer of the company.
Petipa’s style was characterized by precise footwork, strong technique, and delicate arm movements. He was also known for his ability to choreograph complex ensemble dances and graceful solos. His dancers were required to execute difficult steps with ease and flow, making his ballets seem effortless and refined.
Petipa’s most famous ballets were created during his time with the Imperial Ballet. Swan Lake, first performed in 1877, is known for its romantic score and intricate choreography. The Sleeping Beauty, created in 1890, is a beautiful fairy tale ballet with challenging variations and grand ensemble dances. The Nutcracker, first performed in 1892, is a beloved holiday classic with whimsical characters and beautiful music.
Petipa’s influence on classical ballet is immeasurable. He brought new life to the art form through his use of intricate footwork, special effects, and stunning visual imagery. His choreography set the standard for ballet technique for generations to come.
Marius Petipa’s contributions to the world of classical ballet are immeasurable. He created timeless works that continue to enchant and captivate audiences today, and his influence can still be seen in modern ballet productions.
George Balanchine
George Balanchine was a Russian-born choreographer who became one of the most influential figures in the world of classical ballet. Balanchine is known for his unique style, which is characterized by its speed, energy, and crisp form.
| Early Life | Balanchine was born on January 22, 1904, in St. Petersburg, Russia. He was trained at the Imperial Ballet School in St. Petersburg. |
| Early Career | Balanchine’s early career was in Russia, where he worked for the Mariinsky Theater. He later moved to the West, where he worked for the Ballets Russes in Paris. |
| New York City Ballet | Balanchine co-founded the New York City Ballet in 1948, which became his home for the rest of his career. He created more than 400 works for the company. |
| Style | Balanchine’s style is characterized by its musicality, speed, and athleticism. He often used classical music and incorporated neoclassical and modernist elements into his choreography. |
| Legacy | Balanchine is widely regarded as one of the greatest choreographers of the 20th century. His influence can be seen in ballet companies around the world, and his works continue to be performed and revered today. |
Balanchine created many famous ballets, including “Serenade,” “Apollo,” “The Four Temperaments,” and “Jewels.” His choreography was often inspired by literature and history, and he worked closely with composers, including Igor Stravinsky.
Balanchine’s approach to ballet was innovative and groundbreaking, and it continues to influence the art form today. He believed in the importance of developing dancers who could perform a wide range of styles and techniques, and he worked to break down traditional gender roles in ballet.
Balanchine passed away in 1983, but his legacy lives on through the dancers and companies that continue to perform his works. His influence on the world of classical ballet cannot be overstated, and his contributions to the art form will be remembered for generations to come.
Jerome Robbins
Jerome Robbins was an American choreographer who became famous for his contributions to both ballet and Broadway musicals. Throughout his career, Robbins created pieces that were known for their fluidity and emotional depth, and he became one of the most celebrated choreographers of the 20th century.
Robbins began his career as a dancer, but his talent for choreography was soon recognized. He got his big break in 1944, when he was hired as a choreographer for the musical “On the Town”. The show was a hit, and it marked the beginning of Robbins’ long and successful career.
One of the things that set Robbins apart as a choreographer was his ability to seamlessly blend classical ballet with other forms of dance. He was equally at home choreographing a ballet as he was choreographing a tap number or a jazz routine.
Some of Robbins’ most famous works include “Fancy Free”, a ballet about three sailors on shore leave; “The Cage”, a dark and intense ballet about a group of female insects; and “West Side Story”, a musical that tells the story of rival gangs in 1950s New York City.
In addition to his work in the theater, Robbins also choreographed for ballet companies, including the New York City Ballet. Some of his most famous ballet works include “In the Night”, a romantic and elegant piece for three couples; and “Dances at a Gathering”, a series of dances that explores themes of love, memory, and community.
Robbins’ style was characterized by its emotional intensity and its ability to tell a story through movement. He was a master of using dance to convey complex emotions and ideas, and his work continues to be celebrated and studied today.
Robbins’ contributions to both ballet and Broadway have had a lasting impact on the world of dance. His work continues to inspire choreographers around the world, and his legacy as one of the greatest choreographers of the 20th century is firmly secured.
Agnes de Mille
Agnes de Mille was a choreographer who left a lasting impact on the world of ballet. Born in 1905, de Mille began her training at a young age and eventually went on to study with the legendary Martha Graham. She was known for blending classical ballet with American folk dance and creating works that reflected the spirit of the American West.
1. Rodeo
One of de Mille’s most famous works is “Rodeo,” which was premiered by the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo in 1942. The ballet tells the story of a tomboyish cowgirl who tries to win the attention of the head wrangler at a ranch. It features a unique combination of ballet and square dance, and the score was composed by Aaron Copland.
2. Oklahoma!
In addition to her work in ballet, de Mille also made a significant contribution to the world of musical theater. She choreographed the original Broadway production of “Oklahoma!” in 1943, which was a huge success and marked the beginning of the Golden Age of musical theater. Her choreography for the dream ballet sequence in the show is particularly notable.
3. Fall River Legend
Another famous ballet choreographed by de Mille is “Fall River Legend,” which premiered in 1948. The ballet is based on the story of Lizzie Borden, who was accused (and acquitted) of murdering her father and stepmother with an axe in the late 19th century. The ballet explores themes of repression and psychological turmoil and features a haunting score by Morton Gould.
Agnes de Mille’s innovative blend of classical ballet and American folk dance helped to expand the possibilities of the art form and create works that were uniquely American. Her legacy continues to inspire choreographers and dancers today.
The Legacy of Classical Ballet
The legacy of classical ballet stretches far beyond the confines of the stage. This artistic genre has inspired countless other art forms, including fashion, film, and even music videos. Ballet has left an indelible mark on popular culture, becoming synonymous with grace, beauty, and dedicated practice.
One of the most notable legacies of classical ballet is the concept of the prima ballerina. This term refers to the lead female dancer in a company, who is often seen as the pinnacle of perfection in the dance world. The tradition of the prima ballerina began in the 19th century with dancers like Marie Taglioni and Carlotta Grisi, who captivated audiences with their breathtaking performances.
Another legacy of classical ballet can be seen in the physical techniques and training methods used by dancers. The demanding and rigorous training required to master the art of ballet has inspired other physical disciplines, such as yoga and Pilates. Many dancers credit ballet with giving them the strength, flexibility, and discipline needed to excel in other athletic pursuits.
In addition to inspiring physical practices, classical ballet has also profoundly influenced the world of fashion. Elegant tutus, delicate pointe shoes, and flowing tulle have all become ubiquitous in the world of high fashion, with designers drawing inspiration from the graceful lines and intricate movements of ballet dancers.
Finally, classical ballet has touched the world of film and pop culture, with numerous movies and music videos paying homage to the art form. Iconic films like “Black Swan” and “The Red Shoes” have brought ballet to new heights of mainstream recognition, while music videos from artists like Madonna and Kanye West have incorporated elements of ballet into their choreography.
The legacy of classical ballet extends far beyond the stage, inspiring and influencing countless other art forms and cultural practices. From the concept of the prima ballerina to the physical techniques and training methods used by dancers, ballet continues to be a source of inspiration for artists and creators around the world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, classical ballet remains a timeless art form that has captured the hearts and souls of audiences around the world for centuries. It is a beautifully precise and graceful dance style that requires intensive training, dedication and passion. Throughout its rich history, classical ballet has evolved and developed into an art form that showcases the very best of human movement and storytelling. From the origins of ballet in Renaissance courts, to the 19th and 20th century developments that brought us iconic ballets such as Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Sleeping Beauty, classical ballet has always been at the forefront of artistic innovation and creativity.
Famous choreographers such as Marius Petipa, George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, and Agnes de Mille have left a lasting impact on the world of classical ballet with their masterful choreography and creative vision. They have pushed the boundaries of classical ballet and created unforgettable works of art that continue to be performed by dancers today.
The legacy of classical ballet is one that cannot be ignored. It has influenced and inspired countless artists, musicians, and dancers throughout history, and continues to do so today. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of human expression and the beauty that can be achieved through dance.
In essence, classical ballet is a celebration of humanity and our capacity for beauty, grace, and emotional expression. It is a reminder that art has the power to move and inspire us, and to bring us closer together as a global community. It is our hope that classical ballet will continue to thrive and evolve for many years to come, inspiring future generations of dancers and audiences alike.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is classical ballet?
Classical ballet is a highly formalized dance technique that originated in the royal courts of France during the Renaissance.
What is the history of classical ballet?
Classical ballet has a rich history that dates back several centuries. It originated in the courts of France during the Renaissance and evolved into the highly technical style we know today.
Who were some of the early pioneers of classical ballet?
Early pioneers of classical ballet include Jean-Baptiste Lully, Pierre Beauchamp, and King Louis XIV of France.
What are some famous ballets?
Some famous ballets include Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, Giselle, and Coppélia.
What is the role of the choreographer in classical ballet?
The choreographer is responsible for creating and staging the movements and sequences that make up a ballet performance.
What are some famous choreographers in classical ballet?
Some famous choreographers in classical ballet include Marius Petipa, George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, and Agnes de Mille.
What is the legacy of classical ballet?
The legacy of classical ballet includes a rich tradition of technique, movement, and artistic expression that has influenced dance around the world.
What is the difference between classical ballet and other styles of dance?
Classical ballet is highly formalized and technical, with a specific vocabulary of movements and positions. Other styles of dance, such as contemporary or modern dance, may be more improvisational and freeform.
What are some common misconceptions about classical ballet?
Common misconceptions about classical ballet include that it is only for women, that it is not a strenuous form of exercise, and that it is outdated or irrelevant to modern audiences.
How has classical ballet influenced other art forms?
Classical ballet has influenced other art forms such as opera, musical theater, and film, through its use of storytelling, music, and aesthetics.