Questions and Answers
In the last half of the 19th century, ballet reaches new heights in what country?
Russia
Classical ballet is a culmination of?
centuries of ballet vocabulary refinement, includes development of ballet d'action.
Name the three ballets that represent classical style ballet in its grandest form.
Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and Swan Lake
The classical style ballet's main purpose was to?
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Who is the chief architect of the grand classical style of ballet and what are the 7 elements of his formula?
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Describe 3 signature elements of Petipa's choreography.
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What resources did Petipa use for the classical form?
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Which ballet is considered the pinnacle of the Russian Imperial style and what contributed to its success?
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What aspects of The Sleeping Beauty represent the culmination of the grand classical style?
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How does Petipa translate his inspiration from the Renaissance era aesthetic to the stage?
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How are 2 worlds (fantasy and reality) meshed in Petipa's The Sleeping Beauty or Swan Lake?
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Who is the choreographer known for his lyrical style and sensitivity to music?
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How did Petipa's ballets become stereotyped and predictable?
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Lev Ivanov is responsible for the choreography of which 2 ballets?
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How does Ivanov translate his inspiration from the romantic era to the stage in the White Swan Pas de Deux?
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What is the plot, setting, and time period of Ivanov's Nutcracker?
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What is the plot, setting, and time period of Bourne's Nutcracker?
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What is the plot, setting, and time period of Morris's Nutcracker?
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How do Ivanov's, Morris's, and Bourne's Nutcrackers develop the snow scene?
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What are Swan Lake's strengths?
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Consider Bourne's Swan Lake, discuss the narrative he explores through Prince Siegfried's character.
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Study Notes
Russian Influence on Ballet
- In the late 19th century, ballet experiences a significant evolution in Russia.
Classical Ballet Development
- Classical ballet merges centuries of refined vocabulary and the development of ballet d'action.
Iconic Classical Ballets
- "Nutcracker," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Swan Lake" epitomize the grand classical style.
Purpose of Classical Style
- Aimed to showcase academic ballet vocabulary, including en pointe dancing, high extensions, and movement precision.
Marius Petipa's Contributions
- Marius Petipa is recognized as the chief architect of grand classical ballet.
- Key elements of his style: spectacle, virtuosity, choreographic variety, grand pas de deux, finale, and classical style.
Petipa's Choreographic Elements
- Combined romanticism with fantasy, featured European dancers with technical prowess, and commissioned supporting music.
- Notable vocabulary includes sustained balances, high extensions, strong pointe work, fast turns, and high jumps with beats.
Resources for Ballet Production
- Petipa utilized highly trained European dancers, elaborate decor, costumes, and music.
"Sleeping Beauty" Significance
- "Sleeping Beauty" stands as the pinnacle of the Russian Imperial ballet style.
- Components contributing to its success: fairy variations, rose adagio, garland waltz, bluebird variation, and grand pas de deux.
Characteristics of "Sleeping Beauty"
- Represents a grand fusion of mime, expressive pas d'action, and elaborate divertissements set in a lavish environment.
Renaissance Aesthetic in Petipa's Work
- Influenced performances by long durations, interweaving national dances with narrative, and using mime supported by music and scenery.
Fantasy vs. Reality in Choreography
- "The Sleeping Beauty" intertwines fantasy with reality through characters like Princess Aurora and magical elements.
- "Swan Lake" contrasts Prince Siegfried with the swan characters and a curse.
Lev Ivanov's Style
- Known for his lyrical choreography and fluid manipulation of corps de ballet dynamics.
Stereotypes in Petipa's Ballets
- Petipa's works became predictable due to incomprehensible pantomime and lack of originality in production design.
Ivanov's Ballet Contributions
- Lev Ivanov choreographed "Nutcracker" and Acts II and IV of "Swan Lake."
Ivanov's Romantic Era Inspiration
- His "White Swan Pas de Deux" explores emotions through flowing movements, delicate balances, and emphasizes the vulnerability of the white swan character.
Setting of Ivanov's "Nutcracker"
- Set in mid-19th century Germany, establishing a historical context.
Bourne's "Nutcracker" Setting
- Set within the Victorian Age, providing a unique cultural backdrop.
Morris's "Nutcracker" Context
- "The Hard Nut" presents a 1970's reinterpretation, reshaping traditional narratives.
Movement Vocabulary in "Nutcracker"
- Ivanov utilized classical vocabulary; Morris combined classical and modern; Bourne innovated with a mixed vocabulary, retaining thematic consistency across snow scenes.
Strengths of "Swan Lake"
- The ballet is noted for its narrative continuity, rigorous movement challenges, and music that enriches the storyline.
Bourne's "Swan Lake" Narrative
- Explores Prince Siegfried’s character, examining relations and contrasts with Odette from the original and other interpretations.
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Prepare for your exam on Classical Era Ballet with these flashcards. This review covers key historical developments, influential countries, and iconic ballets that shaped the classical ballet tradition. Enhance your understanding of this exquisite art form!