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Sylvia – Royal Ballet with Darcey Bussell

Author simplyballetPosted on Categories InspirationTags

Nymphs, shepherds, mythical gods and celestial beings form the setting for the ballet Sylvia.  Sylvia was first produced in 1876 for the Paris Opera Ballet, however it is Sir Frederik Ashton’s 1952 version choreographed specifically for Margot Fonteyn, which is now part of many companies repertoire.

The score by Leo Delibes is almost more famous than the ballet with Tchaikovsky reported as saying it was “…the first ballet, where the music constitutes not only the main, but the only interest. What charm, what elegance, what richness of melody, rhythm, harmony”

This video showcases British ballerina Darcey Bussell in the title role in her Act 1 variation set to Delibes famous “pizzicato”

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqGbGcvUsI0?rel=0&w=640&h=480]

Introduction to Classical Ballet for Adults

Author simplyballetPosted on Categories ClassesTags

Simply Ballet runs an “Introduction to Classical Ballet” course in conjunction with WEA South Australia.

This 8 week course is designed to get you off to the best start possible in your ballet journey and covers all the basics you need to know before entering a beginner ballet class.  Topics include posture and alignment, safe dance practices, positions of the arms and feet, and simple vocabulary.  The course also offers insight into classical ballet’s heritage with an excerpt from a different ballet viewed and discussed each week.  Each lesson you will build on skills already learned, helping you grow in confidence and understanding of Classical Ballet.  Enquiries for course dates should be sent directly to WEA by emailing enrolments@wea-sa.com.au or calling 8223 1979 quoting the course reference “25609”.  Alternatively, contact Simply Ballet directly for more details.

It’s my first class – what do I need to know?

Author simplyballetPosted on Categories FAQTags

Awesome! Good on you for starting ballet.

It’s a good idea to be a few minutes early to find the studio and get yourself organized.  Class will start with a simple warm-up, followed by exercises holding onto a rail called the “barre“.  Some of these step are then repeated in the center to challenge your balance and skills.  Class will end with a cool-down and a “reverence” where the teacher and the students thank each other for the class. Continue reading “It’s my first class – what do I need to know?”

Examinations

Author simplyballetPosted on Categories ClassesTags

 

At Simply Ballet, we understand sometimes it’s nice to have a goal to work towards. We are proud to be a Royal Academy of Dance school and are able to offer students the opportunity to undertake Exams or Class Awards in the RAD syllabus.  Exams or Class Awards are not compulsory, and will not affect your ability to participate in classes, however some students enjoy the challenge of having an achievable goal, and receiving feedback from an independent Examiner.
Continue reading “Examinations”