History and Origins
In which European country did ballet begin during the Renaissance?
Italy
Which French king helped popularize and standardize ballet?
King Louis XIV.
Name one type of dance step described in early court ballet.
Small hops, slides, curtsies, promenades, or gentle turns.
What is another name for a ballet shoe?
A ballet slipper.
What does plié mean?
To bend.
Around what year did ballet begin?
1500
What nickname did Louis XIV use when performing in Ballet de la nuit?
The Sun King.
Which two ballet movements were emphasized in the classical technique described in the text?
Pointe work and high extensions. Precision of movement and turn-out were also emphasized.
What design feature helps ballet slippers stay secured to the foot?
Elastic.
What does tendu mean?
To stretch.
What Italian word meaning “to dance” is the source of the terms “ballet” and “ball”?
Ballare
In what year did Louis XIV found the Royal Academy of Dance?
1661
Giselle is identified with which movement in ballet history?
The Romantic Movement.
What does it mean to dance en pointe?
To dance on the tips of the toes.
What does port de bras describe?
The carriage of the arms.
Which Italian noblewoman introduced early dance styles into French court life after marrying King Henry II?
Catherine de Medici
What major change occurred when ballet moved from the courts to the stage?
Ballet developed into professional theatrical performance, including the first professional theatrical ballet company, the Paris Opera Ballet.
Don Juan is identified with which movement in ballet history?
The Classical Movement.
Why do ballet slippers have thin soles?
To allow maximum flexibility.
What is en croix?
A movement pattern in a cross shape: front, side, back, then side.
Where was ballet first performed, and during what historical era?
In royal courts during the Renaissance
Which French ballet master argued that ballet could stand as its own art form rather than remain part of opera-ballet?
Jean Georges Noverre.
How can ballet be used in performances today besides telling a traditional story?
Choreographers can interpret music or express ideas and emotions; some works have no storyline.
What is the barre used for in ballet class, and what important limitation applies to its use?
It provides support for exercises, warm-ups, and technique practice, but it is not meant to support the dancer’s full weight.
Name the ballet term for each definition: a large knee bend; a round of the leg; rapid turns.
Grand plié; rond de jambe; chaînés.