2. • Introduction
• Ballet Styles
• Basic Ballet Positions
• Ballet Techniques
• Famous Ballets
• Ballet Attire
• Famous Ballet Dancers
• Ballet in Pop Culture
• Ballet Around the World
• Conclusion
List of Contents
3. Introduction
DEFINITION:
Ballet is a classical dance form characterized by
precise and intricate movements, elegant poses, and
a strong emphasis on storytelling through dance. It
is known for its grace, beauty, and the use of
specific techniques, positions, and vocabulary.
5. ORIGIN:
Ballet dance originated in the Italian
Renaissance courts in the 15th century and later
developed in the royal courts of France. The
term "ballet" comes from the Italian word
"balletto," meaning a dance. Initially, it was
performed as part of court entertainment,
featuring a combination of music, dance, and
elaborate costumes.
15th Century
6. ORIGIN:
In the 16th and 17th centuries, under the
influence of King Louis XIV of France, ballet
evolved significantly. He established the
Académie Royale de Danse in 1661, a critical
institution for formalizing ballet training and
technique. This period laid the foundation for
ballet as an art form with defined positions,
movements, and vocabulary.
16th and 17th Centuries
7. ORIGIN:
Throughout the 18th century, ballet continued to
develop, with choreographers like Jean-Baptiste
Lully and Pierre Beauchamp contributing to its
refinement. Ballet eventually emerged as a
standalone art form during this period.
18th Century
8. ORIGIN:
As it gained popularity, ballet spread beyond the
royal courts and became accessible to the
general public. It continued to evolve and adapt,
leading to the creation of famous ballets such as
"La Fille Mal Gardée." Today, ballet remains a
timeless and cherished dance form, known for its
elegance, discipline, and global influence.
Present
10. Classical Ballet:
• Focus: Classical ballet places a strong emphasis on
technique and precision. Dancers adhere to
traditional and precise movements and positions.
• Storytelling: Classical ballets often tell romantic or
dramatic stories, using dance to convey emotions
and narratives. Iconic examples include "Swan Lake"
and "Giselle."
Ballet Styles
11. Contemporary Ballet:
• Modern Interpretation: Contemporary ballet takes a
more modern approach by blending classical ballet
techniques with contemporary dance styles.
• Choreographic Freedom: Dancers and
choreographers have more freedom to experiment
with movements, music, and storytelling, resulting in
unique and innovative performances.
Ballet Styles
12. Neoclassical Ballet:
• Emphasis on Athletism: Neoclassical ballet combines
classical techniques with a focus on athleticism. Dancers
often perform more physically demanding and virtuosic
movements.
• Abstract Storytelling: Neoclassical ballets tend to have
abstract or non-linear narratives, focusing on
movement and form. Choreographers like George
Balanchine are known for this style.
Ballet Styles
14. • Begin with the feet hip-width apart.
• The feet are turned outward, creating a wide V
shape.
Second Position (Deuxième Position):
First Position (Première Position):
• Stand with heels together and toes turned outward,
creating a straight line with your feet.
• The feet should form a V shape, with the heels
touching and the toes pointing away from each
other.
Positions of the Feet:
15. • Begin with one foot in front of the other, similar
to the third position.
• The front foot is placed about a foot's length away
from the back foot, creating a wider stance.
Fourth Position (Quatrième Position):
Third Position (Troisième Position):
• Start with one foot in front of the other.
• The heel of the front foot aligns with the arch of
the back foot.
Positions of the Feet:
16. Fifth Position (Cinquième Position):
• Start with one foot in front of the other.
• The heel of the front foot is placed against the toe
of the back foot, creating a straight line.
Positions of the Feet:
17. • Extend both arms outward to the sides, forming a
gentle curve, with the palms facing down.
Second Position of the Arms (Deuxième Position des Bras):
First Position of the Arms (Première Position des Bras):
• Hold both arms gracefully curved in front of the
body, and slightly rounded.
Positions of the Arms (Port de Bras):
18. • One arm is raised above the head, while the other
arm is in the second position.
Fourth Position of the Arms (Quatrième Position des Bras):
Third Position of the Arms (Troisième Position des Bras):
• One arm is raised above the head in a graceful
curve, while the other arm is in the first position.
Positions of the Arms (Port de Bras):
19. Fifth Position of the Arms (Cinquième Position des Bras):
• Both arms are raised above the head, forming a
circular or oval shape, with the palms facing each
other.
Positions of the Arms (Port de Bras):
20. 1. Turnout:
Definition: Turnout is a
fundamental technique
in ballet where a dancer
rotates their legs
outward from the hips,
so the feet are pointing
away from the body.
2. Pointe Work:
Definition: Pointe work
involves dancing on the
tips of the toes while
wearing specially
designed pointe shoes.
3. Pirouettes:
Definition: Pirouettes
are a type of turning
movement where a
dancer spins on one
foot while maintaining
balance and control.
Ballet Techniques
21. Famous Ballets
2. The Nutcracker:
"The Nutcracker" is beloved for
its enchanting music by
Tchaikovsky and the captivating
sets and costumes. It has
become a cherished part of
holiday traditions worldwide,
introducing many to the world
of ballet.
1. Swan Lake:
"Swan Lake" is one of the most
famous and enduring ballets,
known for its exquisite
choreography and Tchaikovsky's
beautiful score. It explores
themes of love, betrayal, and the
eternal struggle between good
and evil.
Examples:
23. Anna Pavlova
(1881-1931)
Anna Pavlova was a Russian prima
ballerina known for her ethereal
grace and dedication to bringing
ballet to audiences worldwide. She is
famous for her role in "The Dying
Swan" and remains an iconic figure in
ballet history.
24. Rudolf Nureyev
(1938-1993)
Rudolf Nureyev, a Soviet-born ballet
dancer, achieved international acclaim
for his powerful leaps and daring
interpretations of classical ballet roles.
His defection to the West in 1961
marked a turning point in his career,
and he left a lasting legacy in ballet.
25. Mikhail
Baryshnikov
(born 1948)
Mikhail Baryshnikov is a Russian-American
ballet dancer and choreographer known for
his athleticism, technical precision, and
versatility. His defection from the Soviet
Union in 1974 led to a successful career
with the American Ballet Theatre, and he
has expanded into modern and
contemporary dance.
26. Ballet Attire
Note that the specific dress code for ballet may vary depending on the dance school, company, or performance.
• Leotard: Form-fitting one-piece garment available in various styles and necklines, offering
flexibility and aiding in body alignment.
• Tights: Stretchy, leg-covering attire in different colors; pink and flesh-toned for females,
black or white for males.
• Ballet Shoes: Lightweight footwear for enhanced foot flexibility, including ballet slippers for
beginners to advanced dancers and pointe shoes for experienced female dancers.
• Skirts and Tutus (females): Worn over leotards, these add elegance, especially in
performances. Tutus are layered skirts made of tulle.
• Tutu (performances): Elaborate costume featuring a fitted bodice and multi-layered skirt,
commonly worn in classical ballet performances.
• Dance Belts (males): Supportive undergarments for comfort and protection during intense
movements.
• Hair Accessories: Hair is neatly pulled back into a bun, secured with pins, nets, and ties for a
clean and professional appearance.
27. Conclusion
In conclusion, ballet is a classical dance form renowned for its precision, intricate
movements, elegant poses, and storytelling through dance. Originating in the
Italian Renaissance courts and flourishing in the royal courts of France, ballet
evolved significantly under the influence of King Louis XIV and became a
standalone art form. It has since spread beyond the courts to captivate
audiences worldwide, remaining cherished for its discipline, elegance, and global
influence..
Ballet encompasses various styles, including classical, contemporary, and
neoclassical, each with its unique characteristics and techniques. Key techniques
in ballet include turnout, pointe work, and pirouettes, which contribute to the art's
grace and beauty.
Iconic ballets like "Swan Lake" and "The Nutcracker" continue to enchant
audiences, using music, dance, and elaborate storytelling to convey powerful
emotions and narratives. Ballet's enduring appeal and timeless beauty make it a
treasured art form celebrated worldwide.
28. "To dance is to be out of
yourself. Larger, more beautiful,
more powerful. This is power; it
is glory on earth and it is yours
for the taking." - Agnes de Mille
