Ballet and Romanticism

& the Romantic Era

Ballet

You don't have to watch the whole thing

• Courtly entertainment

• Heavy costumes
• Grounded steps
• Men's dominance
• Dramatic storytelling

La Fille Mal Gardée (1789): Choreographed by Jean Dauberval, this ballet is considered one of the first to deal with ordinary people rather than mythological or noble characters. (NOTICE the costumes!)

Before her, dancers wore heavy court attire with hoops and bodices, which were cumbersome.

In 1734, Marie Salle became the first female ballet choreographer and started a dance revolution by changing the ballet costume.

Salle removed these elements and danced in a simpler, light muslin dress that resembled a toga, fitting the Greek theme of her Pygmalion ballet.

In 1832, Marie's father choreographed "La Sylphide". Marie danced the lead role, wearing a costume with a full tulle skirt and a white bodice. Her performance and costume, known as the Romantic tutu, marked the beginning of the golden age of Romantic ballet.

Known for her style, grace, and dramatic flair, was the ideal Romantic ballerina.

Ballerinas used to fly using wires, but thanks to the new tutu the style changed and evolved into pointe! However, during the Romantic era, they were nothing more than normal ballet slippers that had been stiffened by rows of darning to offer the foot a little more protection. The rest of the work of getting en pointe was done by the ballerina and the strength of her ankles!

As you watch the clip of the Ballet Giselle, use the tulle and glue to add a Romantacicm Tutu on your ballerina on your notes page.

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