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  • Essay / The stylistic characteristics of classical ballet - 376

    The stylistic characteristics of classical balletClassical ballet is an international form of expression that uses a unique and codified language. It shows how a dancer's body can be strong, toned and flexible while expressing itself with beautiful delicacy. is a simple, yet ever-evolving story that has been perfected over many years. The lead dancer is stereotypically female and she often dances with the male "love interest". A common feature of classical ballet are floor patterns; dancers use many circular shapes, often around the main dancer, which are repeated and developed throughout. Straight lines towards the audience are also commonly practiced; the movements are small, quick and delicate, but effective when danced in unison. These small gestures are beautifully highlighted by the composed music which follows the “fairy tale” feel of the piece as a whole. Music is used to exaggerate simple gestures, often to make them more amusing to the audience. In Copelia by Arthur Saint Léon, the “in love” woman sneaks into a workshop to find out who her beloved spends all his time with. She looks inside then travels confidently across the floor until she hears a loud bang behind her. Jumping into the air, she then stands up, wobbling and shaking her knees. The music here is very sudden, with small bursts of loud drums and trumpets, but its main feature is the loud instrument used when it shakes. The most beautiful aspect of classical ballet is the dancer. Almost always on point, she seems to glide with a grace almost too perfect to be human. This gives the piece an unnatural “magical” feel, which is why it is so pleasing to the eye. The dancer's steps are small; his jumps are long and high but gentle. There is no bending or turning and she maintains her tall posture with perfect alignment. In Copelia, the main character is actually a doll. Its smooth, gliding motion makes this much easier to achieve..