BALLET is a specific academic dance form and technique which is taught in ballet schools according to specific methods. Works of dance choreographed using this technique are called ballets, and usually include dance, mime, acting, and music (usually orchestral and occasionally sung). Ballet is best known for its unique features and techniques, such as pointe work and high extensions; its graceful, precise movements; and its ethereal qualities.

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Root words

The word ballet comes from French and was borrowed into English around the 17th century. The French word in turn has its origins in Italian balletto, a diminutive of ballo (dance). Ballet ultimately traces back to Latin ballere, meaning to dance

Where it all began

Ballet originated in the Renaissance court as a spectacle in Italy, but was particularly shaped by the French ballet de cour, which consisted of social dances performed by the nobility in tandem with music, speech, verse, song, pageant, decor and costume.

Summer camp ballet

Summer camp. Just the mention of it conjures fond memories for some and sheer horror for others. Campfire ghost stories, lame camp uniforms, crazy camp counselors, initiation rituals, team rivalries...

But six local dancers will have an entirely different camp experience this summer.

Their camp uniforms are spandex, tutus and pointe shoes, and their ghost stories will likely be told in a dorm room.

McKenzie Beckett, Marilyn Brady, Kayla Casagrande, Morgan McBride, Ashton Rank and Sydney Wyatt will forge camp memories on their tiptoes with a few twirls and dips thrown in for good measure.

The Northern California Ballet dancers are six of the 225 dancers from around the world accepted at top ballet schools in the United States.

The Youthful Face of World Dance Come to Cuba

Russian ballet dancer Azari Plisetski and Italian-American choreographer Joseph Fontano will participate in the Fourteenth International Meeting of Ballet Schools to be held March 31 to April 14 in honor of the 45th year of the foundation of the National School of Arts (ENA).