What Happened to Ballet Russes?

Ballet

The Ballet Russes was a legendary dance company founded by Russian impresario Sergei Diaghilev in 1909. The troupe combined the creativity of some of the greatest dancers, choreographers and composers of the time to create spectacular and innovative performances that revolutionized the world of ballet.

The Ballet Russes toured Europe and America at a time when most ballet companies stayed close to home, bringing a wide range of dance styles to audiences around the world. The troupe produced hundreds of works over its 30-year run, introducing audiences to some of ballet’s most famous choreographers including George Balanchine, Bronislava Nijinska, Michel Fokine and Léonide Massine.

The Ballet Russes’ productions were known for their audacious costumes and sets, which often pushed the boundaries of taste and propriety. With its combination of innovation, spectacle and daring artistry, it is no wonder that the Ballet Russes had such an impact on modern dance.

The company disbanded in 1929 due to financial difficulties brought on by Diaghilev’s death in 1929. Though a number of spin-off companies popped up in its wake – including Ballets Russes de Monte Carlo – none could quite recreate the artistic energy or sheer impact that Diaghilev’s original had on the world of ballet.

Though it was short-lived, the legacy of Ballet Russes lives on today through its many disciples who went on to create some of ballet’s most beloved works. From George Balanchine’s “Serenade” to Jerome Robbins’ “Fancy Free” – not to mention those iconic costumes created by Coco Chanel – we can see the influence of Ballet Russes everywhere from high art to popular culture.

Ultimately what happened to Ballet Russes was a tragedy; though it left an indelible mark on classical dance, its innovative spirit would never be fully recaptured. Its legacy is still felt today as we continue to be inspired by its daring vision for ballet and all forms of artistry.

Conclusion:
The legacy left behind by Sergei Diaghilev’s legendary company has been felt throughout classical ballet ever since its untimely dissolution in 1929 due to financial difficulties brought on by his death. Though it was short-lived, the extraordinary impact that it had on modern dance is undeniable; with its combination of spectacle and audacious creativity, it revolutionized how audiences around the world experienced ballet performances and inspired countless future generations with its unparalleled artistry. What happened to Ballet Russes may have been tragic; but thankfully we can still feel its influence today through masterpieces like George Ballanchine’s “Serenade” or Jerome Robbins’ “Fancy Free”.