Is Sleeping Beauty Really a Romantic Ballet?

The distinction between ballet styles—especially between classical and romantic—is often misunderstood, leading to confusion about works that don't fit neatly into one category. One such example is the ballet The Sleeping Beauty. While it is often classified as a classical ballet, it is commonly misconceived as a romantic ballet due to its period setting and story elements. Let's explore the nuances of ballet styles and why The Sleeping Beauty should be considered a classical ballet.

Defining Ballet Styles

A ballet is classified according to its choreographic style and the period of its composition. The story content does not necessarily indicate the style. Style is identified through specific technical and aesthetic elements, including arm positions, body gestures, and forms. These elements define the position angles and other aesthetic qualities in movement, which are more critical in determining a ballet's style than the narrative.

Examples of Ballet Styles

One way to understand the difference between ballet styles is by comparing The Sleeping Beauty with another classical ballet, Giselle. Giselle is a romantic ballet because of its period setting and choreographic style, marking the transition from traditional courtly dances to more narrative-driven storytelling. On the other hand, The Sleeping Beauty adheres more closely to the pure classical style, despite its picturesque plot and royal setting.

The Pure Classical Style

The pure classical ballet style, exemplified by The Sleeping Beauty, is characterized by precise and disciplined movements, geometric formations, and a formal, geometric aesthetic. It encapsulates the rigorous technical aspects of ballet, such as pointe work, turnout, and toque, which are integral to the style. While Swan Lake incorporates some romantic forms in its arms and angles, The Sleeping Beauty embodies the ideal of the classical style, making it a quintessential example of classical ballet.

Why Ballet Training Matters

Properly interpreting and appreciating different ballet styles requires knowledge of the techniques and aesthetics that define each. Ballet training provides the necessary insight to distinguish between styles, helping viewers and scholars recognize the nuanced differences in movement and form. Without this specialized training or a deep understanding of ballet principles, it can be challenging to accurately identify ballet styles solely based on their stories or setting.

The Significance of The Sleeping Beauty

The Sleeping Beauty stands as one of the greatest classical ballets in the repertoire, despite its romantic narrative and setting. Its place in the annals of ballet history is more defined by its adherence to classical principles and its technical rigor than by its story. The intellectual and aesthetic challenges it brings to the stage make it a vital piece of classical ballet that continues to captivate audiences and influence choreographers.

Understanding the difference between ballet styles, such as the distinction between classical and romantic, is essential for appreciating the beauty and artistry of this dance form. The Sleeping Beauty is a testament to the complexity and elegance of classical ballet, making it a timeless example of the style.