Intro to Ballet

     Ballet is a form of dance that has been around for hundreds of years and even today it is taught around the world. It was originally from the Italian Renaissance in the 1500's. It then moved to France and Russia and has been a great influence on countries around the world. The ballet vocabulary is made up of French words that can be translated to explain the movement. For example, the word "fondue" means "to melt". Ballet is usually accompanied by classical music, usually non-lyrical, however there are exceptions. Ballet performances tell stories through mime and music and do not use words portray events. Today there are ballet schools around the world that teach ballet. Female ballet students are taught pointe work and all students are taught the necessary posture, alignment, and balance. There are many other forms of dance, however, ballet can be found in most of them.