Classical Ballet

Classical ballet is a centuries-old dance technique built on five foundational positions and turnout, developing posture, strength, balance, and grace.

Studio Naim offers adult ballet classes at various levels. In Ballet Foundation we get acquainted with the basics of ballet technique. The foundation class requires no prior background and is an extraordinary experience for anyone who has dreamed of dancing and wants to start at a later age.

Beginner Ballet classes are recommended for anyone who has some ballet background and has already gained experience (for those without, it's better to go through the Classical Ballet Foundation classes first), and Continuing Ballet classes are recommended for committed ballet students who train at the studio on a regular basis. We recommend coming in socks; ballet shoes are not required.

What is the history of classical ballet?

Classical ballet was born in Italy and France more than 400 years ago and spread throughout Europe. At first dance was the domain of men alone (female roles were played by men in costume), but around 1820 female dancers began to go on pointe, a virtuosic ability designed to convey a sense of floating and transcendence.

Most steps in classical ballet are built on the five positions, which require a 180-degree turnout from the hip. Once achieved, this allows the dancer complete freedom of movement, perfect balance, and elegance. Pierre Rameau was the first to write and document the positions at the end of the 17th century, though they were likely in use even earlier.
French then became the language of classical ballet, a fact that does not diminish the importance and contribution of the Italians to the development of this art.