At Misako Dance studios, we often get asked questions about which particular dance styles we recommend. The truth of the matter is that the answer depends on many variables, including a student's goals, passions and preferences. But truly, what really matters is understanding what the differences are among the varying styles. This post focuses on the benefits and distinctiveness of ballet, which is our flagship offering at Misako Ballet Studio.
Ballet as a form of dance, is characterized by very technical and formal movements which, when well executed, become light, elegant, and fluid. Precision of movement is a hallmark of ballet, as is lengthening, stretching (turning out), and extending from one’s core. Ballet is also unique because it has its own vocabulary based on French words, such as pirouette (a type of spin), arabesque (a position where the body is supported on one leg), and plie (bending at the knees). While ballet has a singular feminine air, young boys can excel as ballet dancers too. Little girls tend to be attracted to ballet because of its ethereal sensibilities, which reminds them of the fairies, pixies, and angels they see on TV or hear about in books, who tend to be female.
Ballerina Amanda Willingham from “The Moon Princess” performance
One of the things immediately noticeable about ballerinas is their poise and posture. Their bodies have been trained to lift up (or "pull up") from the inside, imbuing them with natural elegance. As a dance style, therefore, ballet is truly a foundational. Young ballet dancers are equipped to branch out into a variety of dance genres if they desire, once they are grounded in ballet technique.
Misako believes that ballet is all about stretching the muscles so they are free and fluid versus tight and contracted. This is part of what gives ballet its air of lightness and gracefulness. According to Misako, “their flexibility gives them more vocabulary of expression,” so ballet dancers are able to move with a fluidity which makes their dancing seem effortless. This, coupled with the structure and precision of movements, is what truly makes ballet the extraordinary dance form it is.
Ballerina from end of year recital for Misako Ballet Studio
Ballerinas also have strong core muscles which makes them stronger overall. Their toned arms and legs are no coincidence either. These are natural benefits of years of dedicated stretching, extending and lengthening, the hallmark of ballet movements.
Ballet students at our studios are encouraged to be dedicated, committed, and to strive for excellence. Those dancers who shine are encouraged to join the student arm of our performance company, Misako Ballet Company, where they are given opportunities to dance locally and hone their craft throughout the year. Young women who take ballet are more likely to feel confident and have stronger self-esteem.
Young ballerinas at end of year recital for Misako Ballet Studio
There are many other benefits to taking ballet classes, especially when children start dancing at a young age. Kids in dance learn to follow instructions outside the classroom and to exhibit discipline when learning new movements or rehearsing a routine. The different movements also teach them coordination, balance and how to control their moving bodies. Finally, they learn to deal with the stress of performing in front of an audience and become comfortable being in the spotlight. All these benefits help them thrive as individuals over time, and position them for success in all areas of their lives.
Lastly, many adults think they are too old to start ballet. We disagree. While it is easier to take up ballet as an adult if you'd had experience as a youth, it is truly never too old to start. We have students taking ballet in their 80s at Misako Ballet Studio!
Gamzatti variation from la bayadere performed by jessica markiewicz