Classical Ballet Overview and Key Figures

Study Notes

Classical Ballet Overview

Originated in late 19th century Russia, characterized by 3 to 4 acts.
Influenced by Dance D'Ecloe and incorporates French and Italian technical elements.
The Mariinsky Theater served as the center for the Russian Imperial Ballet.
Marius Petipa is a pivotal figure in this period, known for his contributions to classical ballet.

Gender Specific Dance Vocabulary

Men: Focus on jumps, providing support during Adagio, with reduced emphasis on dramatic expression.
Women: Emphasis on jumps, pointe work, and wearing tutus above the knee; often depict roles of royalty and authority figures.

Key Figures in Russian Ballet

Charles L. Didelot: Established the ballet school in St. Petersburg in 1801; became the director of the Imperial Theater.
Franz Hilferding: Served as ballet master in Russia from 1758, introducing Ballet D'Action, merging pantomime with dance.
Gasparo Angiolini: Director of the Imperial Theatre in St. Petersburg in 1766, credited with introducing European ballet d'action to Russia.

Notable Ballet Works and Contributions

Jason and Medea: A 1763 ballet d'action choreographed by Jean-Georges Noverre, featuring Marie Sallé as Medea.
Marie Taglioni and Fanny Elssler: Key figures who brought "La Sylphide" to Russia, with Elssler noted as a guest dancer.

Influential Choreographers

Christian Johansson: Early 19th-century ballet master; introduced French styles in Russia, partnered with Taglioni.
Jules Perrot: Notable 19th-century choreographer known for "Pas De Quatre" (1845) and "Giselle" (1841).

Pas De Quatre

A ballet that epitomizes the Romantic style, showcasing lightness and fluid movement while emphasizing various classical ballet techniques.

Important Contributions of Arthur Saint Leon and Marius Petipa

Arthur Saint Leon: Ballet-master from 1859 to 1869; choreographed "Coppélia" and "The Girl with Enamel Eyes."
Marius Petipa: Succeeded Saint Leon, created around 50 ballets, integrating theatrical elements with traditional ballet; established the 'Pas de deux' structure.

Enrico Cecchetti's Influence

Revolutionized ballet technique and male dancing roles; served as ballet master at Mariinsky Theatre, originating two roles in "The Sleeping Beauty."
Developed the Cecchetti method, which remains influential in modern ballet training.

Don Quixote Ballet

Originally composed of 4 acts and 8 scenes, choreographed by Petipa and first performed in Moscow in 1869.
Highlights narrative action with a central male protagonist and features lavish spectacle elements.

Laura Mulvey's Argument on Film

Analyzes gender representation in mainstream American films, indicating that both genders are often encouraged to identify with male protagonists, while women are frequently objectified.

Divertissement

Refers to a suite of dances that can serve to interrupt the narrative flow of a ballet.

Description

Explore the rich history of classical ballet, focusing on its origins in 19th century Russia, defining elements, and influential figures like Marius Petipa. This quiz will also cover the gender-specific vocabulary used in ballet, highlighting the distinct roles of men and women in performances.