Ballet is a form of theatrical dance that began to evolve in western Europe during the 1300's through the 1600's. Ballet technique consists of stylized movements and positions that have been elaborated and codified over the centuries into a well defined, though flexible, system called academic ballet. Toe dancing is often considered synonymous with ballet, but ballet technique can be preformed without toe dancing. Because the steps were first named and codified in France, French is the international language of ballet.
The basis of ballet is the turn out of the legs and feet. The turned out position is not unique to ballet. It is used in many Russian dance forms. Ballet comprises five specific, numbered positions of the feet, which form the basis of almost all ballet steps. Corresponding positions exist for the arms, which are generally held with gently curved elbows.
Different systems of ballet training have evolved, named after countries, or teachers. These systems, however, differ more in style and emphasis than in the actual movements taught. The best age to begin a serious study of ballet is eight to ten for girls and boys can start somewhat later. If training is begun after the late teens, it is probably unrealistic to hope for a professional career. All dancer no matter how experienced or proficient, take daily classes to keep their bodies supple and strong.
The earliest to ballets were lavish entertainments in the courts of Renaissance Italy. Toe dancing began to develop around 1796. Although the dancers balanced on their toes for only a moment or two. Blocked toe shoes had not yet been invented, and dancers strengthened their light slippers with darning.
In the 1920s and 1930s, modern dance began to be developed in the United States and Germany. Ballet also reflected this move toward realism. Ballet in general underwent an enormous upsurge in popularity beginning in the mid-1960s. Ballet began to show the influence of a younger audience, in both themes and style. The athleticism of dancing was enjoyed in much the same was as sports, and challenging steps were admired for their challenge and daring. Soon after popular music was used to accompany many ballets. Today's ballet offers a great variety. choreographers experiment with both new and traditional forms and audiences throughout the world to experience the full spectrum of today's ballet activity.
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The girl starts in fifth position croise sur les pointes with her right arm fifth en haunt, lightly holding the boy's middle finger in her hand. The girl's left arm is a la second with her right palm resting in the boy's left palm. The boy stands on both feet behind the girl's left shoulder, holding her right arm slightly in front of her head and supporting her left arm in second position. |
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With both partners maintaining the same arm position, the girl draws her right leg to retire front. |
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While the boy maintains his solid position and arms remain the same, the girl developpes her right leg en avant. |
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With a smooth motion, the girl rond de jambes her right leg a la second and simultaneously pushes away from the boy's left hand |
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While the boy maintains his solid position and arms remain the same, the girl developpes her right leg en avant. |
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Placing her foot in retire, the girl holds her arm and back in good pirouette position to make many turns possible. |
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As she turns, the girl should continue to push her right knee back while also spotting her head. |
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Finger turns require that the girl maintains perfect balance throughout as the boy guides her turns. |
