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What should ballerinas know?

### What Should Ballerinas Know?

Ballet History and Technique

- History of ballet

- Major ballet schools and companies

- Ballet etiquette and protocol

- Technical aspects of ballet, such as: body placement, foot positions, arm positions, and turns

- The roles of men and women in ballet

Music for Ballet

- Basic musical theory, such as rhythm, melody, and harmony

- Tempo, dynamics, and articulations

- Major themes and motifs in ballet music

- How to listen to ballet music effectively

Costuming and Makeup

- The history of ballet costuming

- Design principles for ballet costumes

- How to choose the right costume for a particular role

- Makeup techniques for ballet, including how to apply false eyelashes and stage makeup

Repertoire

- The major works of ballet, such as: Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Romeo and Juliet

- The history and significance of each work

- The main characters and their relationships

- Choreography and staging details

- The most famous recordings and performances of each work

Ballet Injuries and Health

- Common injuries in ballet and how to prevent them

- Nutrition and diet for ballet dancers

- Physical conditioning exercises specifically for ballet

- Mental health and coping with the stresses of ballet

Careers in Ballet

- Different career options for ballet dancers, such as: principal dancer, soloist, corps de ballet, and choreographer

- How to get started in a ballet career

- Tips for navigating the ballet world

- The financial realities of being a ballet dancer

Ballet

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