If you are looking for ballet performance ideas, consider some of the most well-known ballets. "Swan Lake" is a technically and emotionally challenging ballet that incorporates the famous "four swans" dance and the character Odette, a princess who is turned into a swan. "Giselle" is a romantic ballet that premiered in 1841 and has been performed by many major ballet companies around the world. "The Nutcracker" is a traditional holiday ballet performance composed by Tchaikovsky with some of the most recognizable music of all the famous ballets. Performing a contemporary ballet to a current piece of music is another idea that has gained popularity in recent years.
When it comes to ballet class, a good idea is to start with barre work for a traditional warm-up. After 30 minutes of barre work that includes stretching, body and foot positions, posture and placement, a variety of exercises should be worked on such as jumps and turns. Plies, relevés, pirouttes and port de bras are a few of the ideas that should be worked on. Ballet steps should be executed across the floor. After performing the steps and exercises, ballet combinations should be practiced to work on technique, strength and expression.
If you're unsure of what to wear for a ballet class, a good idea is to start with a leotard, tights and ballet slippers. Ballet teachers prefer form-fitting clothing so they can observe the proper body placement and "lines" that ballet dancers create with their positions. In advanced classes, ballerinas will often wear tutus and pointe shoes. Leg warmers help to keep the muscles warm and pulling your hair back is helpful in keeping it out of your face.
When choosing a ballet school, it is always a good idea to observe a class first. It's important to watch the teacher for their methods and how they interact with the class. Because ballet is so technical, you want to choose a school that has well-trained, certified instructors. If you are new to ballet, take a beginner class so that you can start with the basic positions and steps. Advanced dancers want to look into a school that has classes that will enhance their technical training.