Ballet in the Courts
Ballet in the courts became a popular way of entertainment for the kings and nobles of the 15th century. It was also a way for rivalries to put on a show. They would compete to see who could create the bigger ensemble of dance. During this time, only men were allowed in the dances. Women were forbidden. Because of this, men wore wigs and make-up to perceive the appearance of women. Costumes were also a factor that added to the overall performance of the dances. Dancers wore large bodices and elaborate masks, actually hindering their mobility to move. They also wore heeled shoes, restricting dance moves, as well.
The earliest stages of dance, sometime during the Renaissance Period, incorporated horses, combat,and even displays of aquatic life as well. Then, a century later, dance became very dramatic and comical. It usually involved speaking roles and, overall, a very theatrical appeal. This is what they called ballet-comique, a French phrase referring to dramatic theater. At this time, ballet was merely a political tool, used by the kings and nobles to earn popularity and recognition.
Picture cited: http://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berkas:Siren_from_Ballet_Comique_de_la_Reine.jpg
The earliest stages of dance, sometime during the Renaissance Period, incorporated horses, combat,and even displays of aquatic life as well. Then, a century later, dance became very dramatic and comical. It usually involved speaking roles and, overall, a very theatrical appeal. This is what they called ballet-comique, a French phrase referring to dramatic theater. At this time, ballet was merely a political tool, used by the kings and nobles to earn popularity and recognition.
Picture cited: http://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berkas:Siren_from_Ballet_Comique_de_la_Reine.jpg