Tuesday, 2 July 2013

The Evolution Of Pittsburgh Ballet

By Camille Nicholson


The 1400s was the century when ballet was first developed as a new art form. Swan Lake and other similar shows took many years to evolve beyond their classical interpretations. The Nutcracker is an excellent example of how modern shows pair classical techniques with contemporary ones as a story telling mechanism. Pittsburgh ballet theaters present many different interpretations of the dance form.

In 1959 contemporary dance underwent a major evolution, particularly in New York. Neoclassical styles were developed, and choreographers became bravely experimental. Classic dancers began to develop new styles as flawlessly as they performed classic ballets. Internationally, theaters began to hold shows that demonstrated many different types of ballet. Styles varied enormously and traditional choreography was opened up to new interpretations.

Small theaters often don't have the space or money to produce shows that have real orchestral accompaniments. Generally, sound systems are used for smaller shows. However, ballets that are performed to authentic, live music are far more powerful. Larger theaters usually host shows with live music. Cinderella and similar shows appeal to the young and old, revealing how diverse an audience the dance form attracts.

The fact that there are shows that have been performed for decades has not had a dating effect on them because shows are usually reinvented every year. Cinderella and Swan Lake are excellent examples of how varied each performance can be. This is one reason that viewers often attend their favorite performances annually. Their knowledge of classic choreography that was once used for those shows contributes to the ability to enjoy new interpretations. Shows can be viewed over and over again without losing the interest of audiences.

Cinderella will be taken to several stages across Canada and the US this year. The show is popular largely because the tale itself is so well loved. However, the ballet itself gives a fresh perspective on it by adding depth and comedy. Story telling skill is exploited to add to this particular show. Fresh interpretations are best enjoyed when choreographers focus on telling the tale in an entertaining way.

It's often worthwhile to become familiar with the story line of the show one is going to see, because this allows audiences to find the more profound aspects of the story more easily. It's well worthwhile, for example, to learn more about the tale of Swan Lake prior to viewing it, since it is saturated with meaning.

Ballets have gathered an enthusiastic audience for centuries because of the great achievement that dancers have made through disciplined practice. True skill allows performers to make the most difficult movements seem effortless. They can also turn unnatural movements into choreography that looks entirely organic. Execution of choreography is a core part of the art.

Ballet was not always performed by professional dancers. Performers began to receive payment for their shows because of the extreme skill they developed over time. In the 18th century, storytelling became a more important element than technique, as critics began to complain that dancers were losing their focus on the emotive aspects of the art. Pittsburgh ballet companies still emphasize the emotional aspects and plot of their performances.




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