Ballet technique is the foundational principles of body movement and form used in ballet. Classes in ballet technique are important because ballet puts great emphasis on the method and execution of movement.
The techniques found in classical ballet are a framework for many other styles of dance, including modern dance, jazz, contemporary, and lyrical.
Ballet technique is based on two fundaments: proper alignment (keeping the head, shoulders, and hips vertically aligned) and turnout (completing movements with legs rotated outward from the hips to the toes). Proper ballet training stresses pulling up (using strong muscles of the stomach, back and bottom to pull the body up and off of the legs, allowing the dancer to move with strength and grace.
San Jose Dance Theatre trains dancers in these fundamentals from the beginning to the advanced levels and reinforces good technique as the dancers grow technically and artistically.
San Jose Dance Theatre’s curriculum is based on the Vaganova Russian style and in the higher levels also honor the influences of the quick, light,and intricate styles of the Balanchine American style and the Bournonville Danish style.