European classical dance forms, especially ballet and modern dance , have deeply influenced American dance. These styles brought grace, precision, and emotional expression to the US, shaping the development of American ballet companies and training methods.
Key figures like George Balanchine and Isadora Duncan adapted European techniques for American audiences. Their work led to unique American styles, blending classical foundations with new ideas, and influenced Broadway, Hollywood, and beyond.
European influences on American dance
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Ballet
Originated in Italian Renaissance courts of the 15th century (Florence, Venice)
Codified in France during the 17th century under Louis XIV's reign
Characterized by grace, precision, and ethereal quality
Emphasizes turnout of the legs, pointe work, and virtuosic technique
Modern dance
Developed in early 20th century rebelling against ballet's rigidity
Pioneered by Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, and Ted Shawn
Emphasized natural, fluid movements and emotional expression
Incorporated elements from folk and ethnic dances (Spanish, African, Asian)
Ballet principles adapted in America
Cecchetti method introduced by Enrico Cecchetti focused on anatomical principles and virtuosity
Balanchine technique developed by George Balanchine emphasized speed, musicality, and athleticism
Vaganova method introduced by Russian dancers emphasized strength, flexibility, and expressive port de bras
Modern dance principles adapted in America
Graham technique developed by Martha Graham based on contraction and release, spiral movements, and emotional intensity
Horton technique created by Lester Horton emphasized flexibility, strength, and coordination through flat backs, lateral stretches, and fortifications
Humphrey-Weidman technique developed by Doris Humphrey and Charles Weidman focused on fall and recovery, breath rhythm, and dynamism
Ballet influences
George Balanchine (Russian-born) co-founded New York City Ballet , created neoclassical style emphasizing musicality and abstract movement
Antony Tudor (English) introduced psychological realism in ballet, choreographed works for American Ballet Theatre
Léonide Massine (Russian) collaborated with Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, created character-driven ballets
Modern dance influences
Isadora Duncan (American, trained in Europe) pioneered free, natural movements and rejected restrictive clothing
Ruth St. Denis (American, influenced by European and Asian cultures) co-founded Denishawn School, explored spiritual themes
Mary Wigman (German) taught at Bennington Summer School of Dance, influencing American modern dancers with her expressive, percussive style
Legacy of European dance traditions
Establishment of professional ballet companies
New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, San Francisco Ballet
Regional companies across the United States (Boston Ballet , Houston Ballet )
Proliferation of ballet training schools
School of American Ballet , Joffrey Ballet School , numerous regional schools
Incorporation of European training methods and syllabi (Vaganova, Cecchetti)
Development of American modern dance companies
Martha Graham Dance Company , Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater , Paul Taylor Dance Company
Integration of ballet technique in modern dance training
Influence on Broadway and Hollywood
Choreographers with classical backgrounds creating works for musical theater and film (Agnes de Mille , Jerome Robbins )
Crossover of ballet and modern dancers into commercial dance genres (Gene Kelly , Fred Astaire )