Pas De Deux Costumes

by tybalt
(Francfort, Germany)

Ballet Costumes

I especially like the classic costumes, the boy in just tights, the girl in leotard and tights giving most freedom for expression and movement.

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Reply by Odette

Ballet Costumes

Hello Tybalt,

Thank you for contacting me, it is great to hear from you.

Yes, I agree there is a purity in these classic ballet costumes which is refreshing to see. It is pure and simple - less is more in this case. These subtle costumes definitely allow the dancers to feel more free and the audience is able to see the beautiful musculature of the dancers.

All the best,

Odette

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Reply by tybalt

Ballet Costumes

Thanks so much, Odette, for your empathic comment. I like the pic so much.I actually don't know where it is from. You see the outside of a house with an enlightened window, so it is night time.
It might be Romeo and Juliet, garden PDD (corresponding balcony in the drama), 1st act after the company in Capulet's house. It might be the moment before their first kiss.
Any different opinion welcome. yours tybalt

Pure and Subtle Ballet Costumes

by tybalt
(Francfort Germany)

Ballet Costumes as Means of Expression

Hi Odette, here another example for pure and subtle costume with the barre, connecting and separating at the same time, as a medium of the art. I like the flowing lines of the costumes, the colour melting with the stage light, the outlines of the "heart", the crossing of their arms in this pose. Their body lines express more than a more "complete" costume ever could.

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Reply by Odette

Ballet Costumes as Means of Expression

Hello Tybalt,

Thank you, thank you!!

Wow, I am lost for words... you write so beautifully and bring up such creative points.

Yes, I also love the flowing lines of the costumes. I love the gentle quality in the material of the costumes as it complements the dancer's lines and flows so naturally. The colours are very calming and the blue creates a serene mood. And how amazing there is an outline of the "heart" - I have to admit, I did not even notice that until you pointed it out!

I definitely agree their body lines express more than a complete costume would. You don't always need a dazzling tutu or elaborate dress to portray the beauty in the art of dance. Just simply a subtle costume along with the grace of a dancer's body can express so much more and look even more true.

What a stunning photography of those two dancers. Where do you find such wonderful photos? I would love to see more.

It could not have been worded better, I am still amazed by your skill to write so perfectly about ballet costumes. I would be delighted to hear more, your submission has really inspired me - thank you Tybalt.

All the best,

Odette

Ballet Costumes in the Nutcracker

by tybalt
(Francfort Germany)

Ballet Costumes in the Nutcracker

There are classical costume ballets in which costumes essentially contribute to the miracle of the story, where the personality of the dancers almost disappear behind their role. You know: Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Nutcracker etc. Audience has to be caught by the atmosphere of stage more than by the personality of the dancers, just contrary to the "l'art pour l'art ballets" without story.
Let me give you 2 examples I like. The first one is Arabian dance in blue, very delicate, gentle and filmy, the second more opulent with typical buggy pants of both partners.
Both pics are with advanced youth (teen) dancers.

Yours tybalt

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Reply by Odette

Ballet Costumes in the Nutcracker

Hello Tybalt,

Thank you so much for sharing your delightful understanding ballet costumes. Once again, you amaze me with your innovative ideas.

Yes, I definitely agree the ballet costumes in these photographs all play a role in contributing the story. Dancers have to turn into their characters with story ballets such as Nutcracker and Romeo and Juliet. The ballet costumes are all part of interpreting the role and help the dancers get more into character.

Story ballets have artistic unity, so there are three important elements - the choreography, the set design and the music. It's the collaboration of these three art forms that bring a ballet together to create such a powerful atmosphere on the stage.

The choreographer Michel Fokine was determined to produce artistic harmony. He wanted ballet to have equal terms with the other arts, so costume and music became just as important as the dancing.

Thank you Tybalt!

All the best,

Odette

ps. To become the best dancer you can be, learn the Seven Secrets ..... go to my 'Seven Secrets of Ballet' page

Anna Pavlova's Dying Swan Ballet Costumes

by Yana
(England)

Anna Pavlova's Dying Swan - The Beauty of Centuries! : -

Anna Pavlova's Dying Swan costume - ah! It's truly THE most beautiful costume I have ever seen. And made from real swan feathers - though the poor old swans, eh?