Modern ballet and classical ballet share a common history but have evolved different techniques, styles and aesthetics. Modern ballet is rooted in traditional ballet technique but has incorporated elements of modern dance, jazz and other forms of dance to create something new. Classical ballet is a more formalized and structured form of dance that follows strict rules and principles.
Technique: Classical ballet technique emphasizes correct body placement, alignment, formality and control. It is based on five basic positions of the feet, which are combined with steps, turns and jumps to create complex choreography. Modern ballet technique has adapted the basic elements of classical technique but includes more relaxed body placement, more use of arms and legs in wider circles, improvisation, partnering and much more varied movement dynamics.
Styles: Classical ballets are generally performed in either story ballets or abstract ballets. Story ballets are based on a plotline or narrative with characters that have defined roles within the production.
Abstract ballets do not have a plotline or characters; instead they explore themes or emotions through the use of music and movement. Modern ballets often combine elements from both classical story-ballet production values with modern choreographic structures.
Aesthetics: Classical ballets usually feature elaborate costumes, detailed sets and complex lighting designs that enhance the mood or story line. Modern ballets often take a minimalist approach to costume design, set design and lighting design with an emphasis on the movement itself as opposed to the external trappings.
Conclusion: In conclusion, modern ballet has its roots in traditional ballet technique but has adapted it over time to incorporate elements from other styles of dance such as jazz and modern dance in order to create something new. It features different techniques than classical ballet does; modern technique includes relaxed body placement, improvisation and partnering whereas classical technique stresses correct body placement, alignment and control.
The two also have different styles; classical story-ballet productions focus on narrative whereas abstract ballets explore themes or emotions through music and movement. Finally they also differ aesthetically; classical productions feature elaborate costumes whereas modern productions take a more minimalist approach by focusing on movement rather than external trappings.