Dance is an incredibly beautiful art form that has inspired creativity and provided entertainment for centuries. Ballet is a traditional form of dance that's known for its stunning lines, theatricality, and beautiful costumes. Here's a brief history of ballet that may inspire you or your child to take a beginner's class. 

Understanding the History of Ballet

Origins

Ballet originated in the 15th century during the Italian Renaissance. Special celebrations for noblemen and women often featured extravagant dances set to live music. In the 16th century, Catherine de Medici, an Italian noblewoman who married King Henry II of France, began funding ballet within the French court. Her support of the artform stimulated its growth, and over the next several decades, dance academies devoted to the style began training students in Paris and beyond. 

Moving into the 17th century, French ballets tended to be operatic or dramatic in style, meant to be highly expressive as a way to reveal relationships between the characters dancers portrayed. 

19th Century

In the 19th century, ballet began to adapt to a narrative style that was both romantic and ethereal in nature. These romantic ballets featured female dancers in pointe shoes and the traditional vision of a ballerina was born, with long lines, pink tights, and tutus. 

In Russia in the late 19th century, ballet began to develop as a true influential artform with pieces such as "The Nutcracker," "Swan Lake," and "The Sleeping Beauty" choreographed and performed for the first time. 

Today

Currently, classic, romantic ballets like "The Nutcracker" are still performed across the globe. While the traditional movements and positions associated with ballet dancing are set, contemporary choreographers and dancers are innovating and blending ballet with other forms of dance to create unique pieces that are visually moving without the narrative plot structure common in the 19th century. 

Modern ballet is multifaceted and has also become a popular after-school program for children since the artform improves balance, flexibility, and body awareness while teaching discipline, good posture, and grace. 

If you're ready to enroll your child in ballet, The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester is the place to go. Founded in 1987 in the heart of Penfield, NY, this gymnastics and dance school trains children across Wayne and Monroe counties in a fun, yet inspiring way. To schedule a tour of their facilities, call today at (585) 388-8686. For more information on their after-school programs and commitment to helping young athletes excel and gain confidence, visit their website.