Classical ballet and neoclassical ballet are two distinct styles of dance, with origins in the 17th and 18th centuries respectively. Classical ballet is rooted in the traditions of the courtly dances of the French court, while neoclassical ballet is an evolution of classical technique that incorporates new elements from other styles such as contemporary, jazz, and folk. Despite their different origins, both styles share a focus on grace, poise, and technique.
Classical Ballet
Classical ballet is a highly codified form of ballet with its roots stretching back to the courts of Louis XIV in 17th century France. It has developed over the centuries to become one of the most popular forms of dance today.
The steps and positions associated with classical ballet are highly structured and require years of training to master. The emphasis is on achieving gracefulness through technical precision and form. The conventions used in classical ballets include the five positions of feet and arms, port de bras (the use of arms to express emotion) as well as jumps, turns, leaps, fouettés (spins) and arabesques (the balancing on one foot).
Neoclassical Ballet
Neoclassical ballet is a style that emerged in the early 20th century from earlier 19th century Romantic ballets. Unlike classical ballets which have a strict adherence to tradition, neoclassical ballets are more free-form with a greater emphasis on character development than on technical precision.
Neoclassical ballets often use elements from other genres such as contemporary dance or jazz dance to add variety to their performance. This style also makes more use of props such as chairs or ladders compared to traditional classical ballets.
Conclusion
The difference between classical and neoclassical ballet lies in their origins; while classical ballet has its roots firmly entrenched in 17th century French courtly dancing traditions, neoclassical ballet evolved out of 19th century Romanticism with influences from other genres such as contemporary or jazz styles. Both styles share a focus on gracefulness but differ in terms of technical precision versus character development.