3.3 Impact of European Classical Dance Forms

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 Classical Dance Forms and Their Influence on American Dance

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)

Principles of classical dance forms

• 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

Key European figures in American dance

• 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)