The World of Ballet

Ballet’s Beginnings The word “ballet” is French with a Latin background Origins in the Italian Renaissance courts during the 15 th century 16 th century- brought to France by Queen Catherine de’ Medici after marring King Henry II. “First ballet de cour, Ballet Comique de la Reine, lasted for over five hours.

Ballet Comique de la Reine

Louis XIV King Louis XIV loved dancing – used it to glorify himself and the throne during the 17 th century. As the court dances became more detailed and complicated, it became necessary to formally codify these dances to maintain consistency. Mid-late 1600s- Pierre Beauchamps codified ballet technique (5 feet positions, turn out). Dance Masters were needed King Louis XIV had a profound influence on the progression of ballet. Not only was he an avid supporter of dance, he was also a beloved performer Late 17 th century – founded the Academie Royale de Musique (The Paris Opera).

Mid-late 1600s- Pierre Beauchamps codified ballet technique (5 feet positions, turn out).

Louis XIV King Louis XIV is commonly referred to as the Sun King, a name he received after appearing ornately adorned in gold as Apollo, god of the sun, in Le Ballet de la Nuit (The Ballet of the Night).

Romantic Period Romantic is now used to refer to a specific style of movement that was popular during that era. Romantic period marked a shift in gender roles, as women stole the spotlight. utilize a very specific, soft line of the body and arms Tutus that we know today are not yet worn. Romantic tutus were worn during this time. Female dancers were to look mystical and as if they were flying – almost ghost like.

Romantic period The first standard ballet shoe for women was a heel until the romantic period Marie Camargo is credited with the innovations of: ballet slippers, the calf-length ballet skirt and ballet tights Marie Taglioni is rumored to be the first to dance en pointe for La Sylphide Fanny Elsser debuts in Paris and becomes rivals with Taglioni Carlotta Grisi debuts in Giselle Pas de Quatre stars Taglioni, Grisi, Grahn and Fanny Cerrito. It choreographed by Jules Perrot

Grand Pas De Quatre

Neo Classical Ballet 20 th century less rigid than classical ballet George Balanchine is a notary figure of neoclassical dance -deconstructed the ballet technique, ridding the performance of dramatic sets, stories, tutus and anything else that would take the focus away from the technique and virtuosity of the dance

Classical Ballet Classical ballet is the most formal of the ballet styles; it adheres to traditional ballet technique. There are variations relating to area of origin, such as Russian ballet, French ballet, and Italian ballet. Influenced by both classical ballet and modern dance. Many of its concepts come from the ideas and innovations of 20th century modern dance, including floor work and turn-in of the legs. Neo-classical/ Contemporary Ballet

En Pointe Pointe training should not happen until after age 11 Rigorous training is required to go en pointe Extreme strength in the tendons is necessary The modern pointe shoe design is often attributed to Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova