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Ballet is one of the most widely known forms of dance, with many people having taken a ballet class at some point in their lives. However, not many know the history of ballet or how it rose to popularity, so here's a brief synopsis of the history of ballet. 

The Origins of Ballet

Ballet's origins can be traced back to the Italian Renaissance in the 15th century. The steps were taught to the nobility, who would perform them at lavish events. It was kept as a tradition amongst the nobility, and was popularized and standardized by King Louis XIV, and with his influence, it became a professional form of dance that required training, instead of something anyone could engage in. 

In 1661, a ballet dance academy opened in Paris, and by 1681, it was set on stages instead of in court. It became a dramatic style of dance when French ballet master Jean Georges Noverre rebelled in his belief that ballet should be its own form of art. 

Ballet in the 19th Century

ballet class

Ballet became more popularized in the 19th century during the Romantic Movement. Classical ballets like "Giselle" were created around this time, with this also being the beginning of pointe work when the dancers began dancing on the tips of their toes. 

This was also when the popularity of the dance grew in Russia, and when "Swan Lake" was created, showing the grandness of classical ballet. The classical tutu became standard at this point, as it was shorter and stiffer, revealing the ballerina's legs and allowing the audience a better look at the movements and footwork. 

Contemporary Ballet

As time went on, ballet began to change. Choreographers like Sergei Diaghilev and Michel Fokine began to experiment with the dance, adding different movements and costumes to expand the form and stories told by classical ballet. George Balanchine also added to the style, creating a "plotless" ballet, where the purpose of the dance is to use movement to express emotion. 

Because of these changes, ballet today has multiple forms, and is more widely accessible. Ballet classes are very popular, especially among children, as ballet teaches discipline and control that can be useful in other styles of dance. Ballet classes are also accessible to dancers of all ages, making it a fun pastime for those who engage in it. 

 

If you'd like to enroll your child in ballet classes, contact Elite Dance Studio in Lindenhurst, NY. They offer a wide selection of dance classes, like ballet, jazz, and hip-hop, that will help your child improve their balance, poise, and flexibility. It will also help them learn self-discipline, while being fun and allowing them to make friends. For more information, call (631) 450-4740 or visit their website for a list of the classes they offer.

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