Classical ballet

It is known for its aesthetics and rigorous technique (such as pointe work, turnout of the legs, and high extensions), its flowing, precise movements, and its ethereal qualities.

Ballet originated in the Italian Renaissance courts and was brought to France by Catherine de' Medici in the 16th century.

[1] In response, the world's first ballet school, the Académie Royale de Danse, was established by King Louis XIV in 1661.

[1] The Academie's purpose was to improve the quality of dance training in France and to invent a technique or curriculum that could be used to transform ballet into a formal discipline.

Elements pulled from these things include the storytelling found in Romantic ballet, and the athleticism of Russian technique.

[3] A distinctive feature of ballet technique is turnout; which is the outward rotation of the legs and feet emanating from the hip.

This was first introduced into ballet by King Louis XIV because he loved to show off the shiny buckles on his shoes when he performed his own dances.

When performing jumps and leaps, classical ballet dancers strive to exhibit ballon, the appearance of briefly floating in the air.

Students typically learn ballet terminology and the pronunciation, meaning, and precise body form and movement associated with each term.

In some cases, students may wear a unitard — a one-piece garment that combines tights and a leotard — to enhance the visibility of artistic lines.

The customary attire and hair style are intended to promote freedom of movement and to reveal body form so that the teacher can evaluate dancers' alignment and technique.

There are several standardized, widespread, classical ballet training systems, each designed to produce a unique aesthetic quality from its students.

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) method was not created by an individual, but by a group of notable ballet professionals.

Some classical ballet training systems employ standardized layouts to define reference locations at the corners, and edges of stages, and dance studio rooms.