What is Ballet? - Photos & Examples from Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre
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Contact/Location
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre
2900 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15201-1500
(412) 281-0360
inquiry@pittsburghballet.org
What is Ballet?
Ballet is an art form created by the movement of the human body.
It is theatrical – performed on a stage to an audience utilizing costumes, scenic design and lighting. It can tell a story or express a thought, concept or emotion. Ballet dance can be magical, exciting, provoking or disturbing.
Types of Ballet
PBT’s
The Sleeping Beauty.
Photo by Rich Sofranko
Story ballets
(not surprisingly!) tell a story. They contain narrative action, characters, a beginning and an end.
The Nutcracker
and
The Sleeping Beauty
are famous story ballets from the 19th century; classic stories and novels such as
The Great Gatsby
and
The Three Musketeers
also have been transformed into ballets.
William Forsythe’s In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated. Photo by Rich Sofranko
Plotless ballets
have no storyline. Instead they use the movement of the body and theatrical elements to interpret music, create an image or express or provoke emotion. Choreographer
George Balanchine
was a prolific creator of plotless ballets.
Styles of Ballet
Classical ballet
is what people generally think of  first when it comes to “ballet.” Classical ballet reached its height in 19th- century Russia through the work of choreographers like Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. The following elements characterize this style:
graceful, flowing movements
classical form: turn-out of the legs and
pointe work
balance and symmetry
ethereal quality
emphasis on story ballets and narrative
elaborate sets and costumes
PBT in George Balanchine’s
Agon
. Photo by Rich Sofranko
Neo-classical ballet
was introduced in the 20th century by choreographers like George Balanchine. It generally includes:
increased speed, energy and attack
manipulation of the classical form
asymmetry, an off-balance feel
non-narrative, often one-act ballets
pared-down aesthetic with simple sets and costumes
PBT in Jiří Kylián’s
Petite Mort
. Photo by Rich Sofranko
Contemporary ballet
is influenced by modern dance. Renowned contemporary ballet choreographers include Twyla Tharp, Jiří Kylián, Paul Taylor, William Forsythe and Dwight Rhoden. In contemporary ballet, you may see:
floor work
turn-
in
of the legs
greater range of movement and body line
pointe shoes but also bare feet
Learn more!
Experience ballet for yourself with
classes for all ages
, including adult beginning ballet classes. Or, introduce your little ones to ballet with
Dance the Story at Home
A Brief History of Ballet
The Point of Pointe Shoes
Ballet Vocabulary
Community
Education & Engagement
PBT in the Community
Community Youth Scholarship Program
Programs & Classes
Programs for Scouts
Creative Movement in Public Schools
Student Matinees
Audio Description
PBT Connects
Ballet Basics
What is Ballet?
A Brief History of Ballet
The Point of Pointe Shoes
Basic Ballet Positions
Ballet Vocabulary
Seeing a Performance