What Is the History Behind Ballet?

Ballet

Ballet is a form of performance art that has been around for centuries. It is a type of dance that combines movement, music and theatrical elements. Ballet originated in Italy during the Renaissance period and has since become a globally recognized form of entertainment.

The Beginnings of Ballet

The ballet form began to develop in the late 15th century in Italy, as part of the cultural revolution that was taking place at the time. At this time, ballet served mainly as a form of court entertainment, with its primary audience being members of noble families and the upper classes. The earliest ballet performances were short pieces called “intermedii” that were performed in between acts of plays or operas.

Ballet Spreads Across Europe

By the 17th century, ballet had spread across Europe and began to take on its own distinct style. In France, Louis XIV established an academy for performing arts, which included dance classes and performances. This academy helped to further define ballet as an art form by establishing rules and conventions that still apply today.

Classical Ballet Comes into Form

The 19th century saw classical ballet come into its own as an art form, with famous ballets such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker being composed during this time. This period also saw the birth of modern ballet companies, such as the Imperial Ballet in Russia, which helped to further spread this art form across the world.

Ballet Today

Today, ballet is still going strong and is performed around the world by both professionals and amateurs alike. It has evolved to include many different styles from both classical and contemporary works. From traditional ballets like Giselle to more modern productions such as Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake or Christopher Wheeldon’s After The Rain; there are countless ways to experience this beautiful art form.

Conclusion: Ballet has come a long way since its beginnings in Renaissance Italy; it is now enjoyed around the world by millions who appreciate its gracefulness and beauty. What remains unchanged however is its ability to enchant audiences through music and movement alike – something that will no doubt continue for centuries to come!