The Different Styles In Ballet
We know that ballet has had a very long history across the centuries, as such the dance form has been altered and tweaked by its practitioners across time and region. To date, there are numerous versions of the dance that translates into different ballet styles.
Here is a list of ballet styles that exist in our world today.
Earlier styles were connected with geographical origins, like French ballet, Italian ballet, and Russian ballet. Later styles combined classical ballet and other dance techniques, like neoclassical ballet and contemporary ballet.
Classical ballet
This style is characterized by classical ballet vocabulary and techniques. It is considered to be one of the oldest ballet styles. It is classified according to historical and geographical origin and includes the English Ballet, French Ballet, Italian Ballet and Russian Ballet. Classical vocabulary and techniques define it.
Classical ballet has training methods which are associated with the names of their creators, like Cecchetti method, after Italian ballet dancer Enrico Cecchetti.
Romantic ballet
In the 19th century, the romantic era gave rise to the romantic ballet style, the most performed classical ballet style. Ballerinas, female dancers are the centre of attention, dressed in classical short white tutus. They often played the role of mystical creatures that enslaved mortal men’s heart. Characteristics of this style are pointe work, precise body movements, and intense emotions. Best known romantic ballets are La Sylphide and Coppélia.
Neoclassical ballet
It is the opposite of classical ballet as it the style introduces abstract elements, and feature no strict scenery, plot and costumes and minimal set design. It eliminated restrictions and experimented with modern techniques and ideas.
Neoclassical ballet has endless possibilities. It integrates a diverse set of music, without being confined to the formality of classical ballet. This possibility allows the dancer to apply modern techniques and choreography. The result of this flexibility is a departure from delicate moves. Strong moves and athleticism characterize the style.
Neoclassical ballet improves physical well-being and individual moods. Eventually, modern ballet style emerged from the neoclassical ballet style.
Contemporary ballet
This style utilizes ballet techniques such as classical ballet and elements from modern, ethnic and jazz styles and allows experimentations with ballet and modern dance. There is a fine line between contemporary ballet and contemporary dance and also between contemporary ballet and neoclassical and modern ballet. Dancers’ moves are bigger, faster, and so it is characterized by robust athleticism, floor work, turn-in of the legs, dancing barefoot, acting and mime.
To learn more about the many ballet styles, why not sign up your child for ballet classes for kids. Your child will be able to learn about and differentiate the different ballet styles and embrace a style that embodies their personality.