Balanchine's Ballets: The Key to Their Timeless Modern Feel

Introduction

While George Balanchine's ballets were choreographed more than 50 years ago, they continue to resonate with a modern sensibility. This article explores what gives these time-tested works their lasting appeal and why they still capture the imagination of audiences today.

Understanding Modernity in Balanchine's Work

When we speak of modernity, we often refer to the present-day culture and its reflective elements in art. A distinctive characteristic of Balanchine's choreography is its neoclassical style, which reimagines the classical ballet forms. Notable composers in this vein include Stravinsky and Debussy, whose works like The Firebird and Claire de Lune exemplify this reimagining of traditional structures.

Key Elements of Balanchine's Dance

What sets Balanchine's ballets apart from other classical forms is their ability to balance fun and athleticism alongside intricate musicality. His works are noted for their fast and crisp movements, requiring dancers to possess a high level of physical fitness and understanding of musical rhythms. For instance, the Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker stands out; the corps de ballet's expressive upper body movements and the dew drop's complex footwork that mimic the melody distinguish Balanchine's choreography from others.

Emotional Depth and Form

A central aspect of Balanchine's modern feel lies in his ability to integrate raw emotion and dramatic subtext without sacrificing the structural elegance of his works. Unlike some purely abstract dance makers, Balanchine's formal structures enhance rather than detract from the emotional power of his ballets. For instance, in Serenade, the final moments of the ballet feature a ballerina arched backward as the corps de ballet performs delicate gliding movements, creating a powerful visual and emotional resonance.

The Use of Nature and Symbolism

Balanchine often drew inspiration from nature, a theme that he adapted in a modern context. In Serenade, the flowing and fluid motions of the dancers mirror the movement of water, enhancing the ethereal and sensuous qualities of the ballet. The manipulation of the train—the flowing skirt—adds to the dance's flow and adds a layer of visual tension, highlighting the contrast between freedom and control.

Modern Messages and Personal Touch

Balanchine's choreography frequently explores themes of perspective and individuality. For example, in Serenade, Balanchine incorporated elements of spontaneity and personal expression, such as a student's late arrival and a fall during rehearsal. These spontaneous elements were intentionally integrated into the choreography, illustrating that the natural can indeed become aesthetic, adding a modern and relatable layer to his works.

Conclusion

Balanchine's ballets continue to captivate audiences with their timeless yet modern feel. Through his use of neoclassical reimagining, emotional depth, and innovative choreographic techniques, Balanchine ensured his works would resonate beyond their time. His ballets are not just performances but exploration of human emotion and artistic expression, making them as relevant today as they were decades ago.