Ballet is a type of theatrical dance that makes use of formal, set movements and poses combined by elegance and grace. Ballet dancers generally hold their bodies straight and lifted up. Ballet technique is based on positions in which the dancer’s legs rotate outward from the hip joint and the feet turn outward. This rotation is called turnout.
An individual work or performance is called a ballet if it features ballet dancing. A ballet may tell a story, express a mood, illustrate the music that accompanies it, or simply portray movement. A ballet may consist of a full-length story, or it can be made up of short works, often in different styles. Ballets are sometimes included in other theatrical works, such as musical comedies and operas. Choreographers (creators of dances) arrange the steps and movements that form the complete work. Ballet is a living art that can vary from performance to performance. Different dancers bring different qualities to their roles. The production will be affected by the harmony among performers, especially between the principal male dancer and the ballerina (leading female dancer). Throughout ballet history, some remarkable partnerships have developed, such as the one that began in the 1960′s between Russian-born dancer Rudolf Nureyev and English ballerina Dame Margot Fonteyn. These pairings emerge when the partners show a particular understanding of each other, look good together physically, and perform in a complementary way.
Although dancing is the most important feature of a ballet, the presentation usually includes music, scenery, and costumes. Many ballets are collaborations among choreographers, set and costume designers, and composers. Ballets are performed by groups called companies or troupes. The artistic director of the company selects the repertory (ballets to be performed). The artistic director may also be the troupe’s choreographer.
Ballet dancers perform many movements that are difficult for the body. However, when these movements are well executed, they look easy. Ballet dancers have always been known for their ability to control their bodies. Skilled dancers can perform complex turns, make magnificent leaps, and maintain control whether moving slowly or with great speed. Some dancers are also known for their dramatic and expressive skills or for their sensitivity to the phrasing of the music. Ballet has become increasingly athletic over time, requiring greater flexibility and strength. Male dancers were once known primarily for their leaps, turns, and skills at partnering ballerinas. Now men have gained recognition for flexibility, high leg kicks, and other feats rarely attempted by earlier dancers. Female dancers were once known largely for dancing on point (on their toes) with the support of special shoes. Now female dancers also perform strong, complex leaps.
