The History of Ballet

Ballet began in the 15^th century, taking place in the Italian Renaissance courts. Dancing and music were central to ostentatious events like wedding celebrations.

Moving to the 16^th century, a noblewoman named Catherine de Medici, who was the wife of King Henry II of France began to support ballet financially in the French court. Festivals were organised, which spurred the growth of ballet amongst other the other arts of poetry, music, and more.

At the 17^th century, King Louis XIV helped to systemise ballet in a standard form. As a dancer, he made ballet into a professional activity rather than one for amateurs. Furthermore, a dance academy was created in Paris which resulted in ballet dancing progressing from the courts to the stage. As ballet dancing was incorporated alongside opera, Jean Georges Noverre wanted to make ballet a stand-alone form of art. His work resulted in the 19^th century creation of narrative ballets.

The early forms of ballet included Giselle and La Sylphide. The Romantic Movement was integral to those ballet forms. This movement highlighted the portrayal of women as fragile.

As the reputation of ballet climbed in Russia, it was further improved by Russian choreographers. Classical techniques were emphasised and displayed in the form of high extensions, turnout positions, pointe techniques, and more. Subsequently, more and more movements were combined to showcase the complexity of ballet dancing.

Ballet in the present

The classical techniques and tradition of ballet dancing expanded as Michel Fokine and Sergei Diaghilev began to try out different movements and outfits. More and more influencers were central to the ballet dancing styles we have today. Ballet currently has a multiplicity of techniques and movements that express different stories.

Ballet dancing is still evolving and is up to people like you and I who are passionate about this sport to invent and re-invent new styles.

Want to get started? Young Dancers Academy offers Children Ballet classes for those who have an interest in ballet. We are a reputable Ballet school in Singapore that offers a safe environment for children to learn ballet whether they are picking it up as a hobby or are thinking of pursuing it professionally.