Ballet is one of the most popular styles of dance around the world. It’s taught to many young people and adults each year, and audiences watch ballets all over the world to see the graceful dancers perform the centuries-old art form. The technique started in the 15th century and has evolved in many ways since then.  

How This Famous Style of Dance Has Evolved

European Origins

Ballet goes all the way back to the 15th century in Italian Renaissance courts. At elaborate events like wedding celebrations, dancing masters taught steps to the court, elevating their performance. After the ballet was funded, King Louis XIV helped popularize the art form, even dancing in productions himself. These dancers wore restrictive clothing, shoes with heels, and masks, making their performances very different from the ones seen today. 

Worldwide Adaptation

By 1681, the first dance academy opened in Paris, and ballet had moved from the courts to the stage. The form called “ballet d’action” was introduced, which told a story only through dance. In the 19th century, the idea of dancing on pointe was introduced, which is dancing on one’s toes. This was also when the modern tutu started to gain popularity, allowing audiences to see the ballerina's legs, making her movements more impressive. Popular ballets like Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker were introduced during this time.

Modern Practice

In the early 20th century, Sergei Diaghilev and Michel Fokine experimented with moving away from the traditional storytelling dance form, and instead focused on movement and costume. Today, ballet allows for many different styles, including classical forms, traditional storytelling, and more contemporary choreography. These options diversify the dance and allow for new innovations.

If you’re interested in learning ballet, New York Dance Center in Chester, NY, offers a wide array of classes that can make your dream a reality. They offer men, women, and children the opportunity to increase their fitness level and learn to tell a story with their body. They also offer other dance styles like jazz, tap, and hip hop. Visit their website to see their class schedule or call (845) 615-1433 to enroll in a class.