National Ballet Day

Ballerina gracefully twirling amid a backdrop of pastel colors, wearing a flowing tutu, surrounded by roses.. — National ballet day illustration

Welcome to the enchanting world of National Ballet Day! Prepare to twirl, leap, and pirouette your way into a day dedicated to the elegant art of ballet. Whether you're a ballerina in training, a dance enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and grace of ballet, this is the day for you.

When is Ballet Day?

It's national ballet day on the 2nd October.

The Internet History of National Ballet Day

Did you know that National Ballet Day originated from a viral internet sensation back in 2015? It all started when a video of a little girl attempting her first ballet steps went viral on social media. People were captivated by her determination and the sheer joy on her face as she tried to mimic the graceful movements of a professional ballerina.

Soon, ballet enthusiasts from all over the world started sharing their own ballet stories and videos online. The hashtag #NationalBalletDay quickly became a trending topic, with countless photos and videos showcasing the beauty and athleticism of ballet dancers.

Inspired by the overwhelming response, a group of ballet lovers decided to create an official day to celebrate ballet and raise awareness about this incredible art form. And thus, National Ballet Day was born!

Since then, every year on October 2nd, ballet companies, dance studios, and ballet enthusiasts come together to honor the art of ballet in all its forms. It's a day filled with performances, workshops, and events that showcase the talent and dedication of the ballet community.

Whether you're a seasoned ballet dancer or an aspiring ballerina, National Ballet Day is a chance to appreciate the blend of athleticism, grace, and storytelling that ballet offers. So, put on your dancing shoes, strike a pose, and let's celebrate the beauty of ballet!

History behind the term 'Ballet'

1661

Birth of Ballet

Ballet originated in 1661 when King Louis XIV of France established the Académie Royale de Danse, which was the first institution dedicated to the study and practice of dance. The word 'ballet' is derived from the Italian word 'balletto,' which means 'a dance.' It was during this time that ballet as we know it today began to take shape, with formalized movements and techniques.

1760s

The Enlightenment Influence

During the 1760s, ballet underwent significant changes due to the influence of the Enlightenment period. Choreographers sought to incorporate more expressive and dramatic elements into ballet performances, breaking away from the purely formal and classical style. This shift led to the development of narrative ballets, where stories were told through dance and mime, adding a new dimension to the art form.

1832

The Romantic Era

The Romantic Era of ballet emerged in 1832 with the premiere of La Sylphide, choreographed by Filippo Taglioni. This period focused on ethereal and supernatural themes, with dancers portraying mythical characters like the sylphs and wilis. The Romantic Era saw advancements in pointe work, introducing the use of pointe shoes that allowed dancers to appear lighter and more ethereal on stage.

1910s

Diaghilev's Ballets Russes

Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, which operated from 1909 to 1929, transformed the world of ballet. Diaghilev brought together talented artists, composers, choreographers, and dancers to create groundbreaking and innovative ballet productions. The Ballets Russes introduced collaborations with prominent artists like Pablo Picasso and Igor Stravinsky, pushing the boundaries of ballet and making it a multidisciplinary art form.

1956

Rise of George Balanchine

George Balanchine, a Russian-born choreographer, played a pivotal role in shaping ballet in the 20th century. In 1956, he co-founded the New York City Ballet, where he created works that emphasize speed, musicality, and athleticism. Balanchine's choreography combined classical ballet techniques with modern influences, giving rise to what is now known as neoclassical ballet.

1980s

Contemporary Ballet

The 1980s marked the rise of contemporary ballet, a genre that blends classical ballet with elements of modern dance. This style encouraged dancers to explore new movements, break traditional boundaries, and experiment with different forms of expression. Choreographers like William Forsythe and Jiří Kylián were at the forefront of this movement, pushing the limits of what ballet could be.

Did you know?

Did you know that the longest recorded ballet dance lasted a staggering 20 hours and 31 minutes? That's longer than most people's workdays! Talk about dedication!