ballet

CE5

The five classical positions in ballet

ballet bălˈā, bălāˈ [key] [Ital. ballare=to dance], classic, formalized solo or ensemble dancing of a highly controlled, dramatic nature performed to music.

See also dance; modern dance.

Sections in this article:

• Introduction
• American Ballet
• British Ballet
• Russian Ballet
• The Romantic Period and Ballet's Eclipse
• The Development of Ballet in Western Europe
• Bibliography

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2025, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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