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Raymonda ~ Sergei Berezhnoi, Irina Kolpakova, Gennady Selyutsky, and Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Raymonda ~ Sergei Berezhnoi, Irina Kolpakova, Gennady Selyutsky, and Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2007) ++++ Raymonda ~ Sergei Berezhnoi, Irina Kolpakova, Gennady Selyutsky, and Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2007) |
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Stanton Welch - Divergence / Australian Ballet (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Music by Georges Bizet. The Australian Ballet. If you close your eyes at the opening of Divergence you will hear the familiar strains of Bizet’s L’Arlésienne and perhaps imagine yourself at a traditional performance. Whatever you do, don’t close your eyes. Not for a second. Divergence is an adrenalin-charged and provocative work and must be seen in its entirety. From the opening movement, you will be startled by Welch’s vision. Contradictions abound. It is both light and playful, alien and sensuous, serene and chaotic, cool and explosive. Stanton Welch believes in classical ballet. Yet your expectations will be denied and preconceptions challenged by this, his most original creation. In Welch’s own words, "classical ballet is like any living creature, it requires fresh and dangerous sustenance to give it life." ++++ Stanton Welch - Divergence / Australian Ballet (DVD - 2007) |
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Maya Plisetskaya - Diva of Dance ~ Maya Plisetskaya and Raymonda Romeo Juliet Swan Lake Ballet (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Maya Plisetskaya was named "Prima Ballerina Assoluta" by her home company, the Bolshoi, but she might as well be PBA of the entire ballet world. Her influence can be seen all around the ballet world. Maya, with her blazing red hair, broke all the rules of classical ballet. She famously took class with the men. Instead of dainty jumps, she flew onto the stage in grand jetes that would make the men jealous. Her ultra-flexible back and legs pushed the limits of the traditional classical line. And those arms! Everyone tries to emulate Maya's completely boneless arms, and no one succeeds. ++++ Maya Plisetskaya - Diva of Dance ~ Maya Plisetskaya and Raymonda Romeo Juliet Swan Lake Ballet (DVD - 2006) |
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American Ballet Theatre at the Met - Mixed Bill ~ Marianna Tcherkassky, Cynthia Harvey, Cheryl Yeager, and Mikhail Baryshnikov (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances From the Metropolitan Opera House, New York, this triple bill of ballets, with an additional glittering pas de deux, is a delightful introduction to the range and excitement of American Ballet Theatre’s repertory. The first piece is Les Sylphides in which Mikhail Baryshnikov is the poet surrounded by the drifting chorus of sylphs. The Sylvia Pas de deux is a sparkling duet for Martine van Hamel and Patrick Bissell, and it is followed by Triad, one of Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s most poetic and sensitive short ballets. Finally, in a blaze of brilliant dancing, the Grand Pas from Paquita shows off the technical virtuosity of ABT’s dancers in a cascade of mock-Spanish bravura choreography staged by Natalia Makarova from the original Petipa version. ++++ American Ballet Theatre at the Met - Mixed Bill ~ Marianna Tcherkassky, Cynthia Harvey, Cheryl Yeager, and Mikhail Baryshnikov (DVD - 2003) |
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Ballet Class with Dmitri Roudnev (Demonstration of exercises for music of Best of Ballet Class Vol V) ~ Principal Joffrey Ballet Taryn Kaschok (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Dmitri Roudnev brings you exciting ballet classes that reflect his experiences as a student and soloist of the Bolshoi Ballet. Roudnev loved the logical combinations and the musicality of Bolshoi classes and he brings these feelings into his work. He presents uncomplicated barre exercises, based in the great Russian Method training traditions, that are easy for student and teacher to learn and build strength to avoid injury. Also included are many small/medium jumps and exciting grande allegro combinations. Roudnev emphasizes development of clean technique and beautiful long muscles - the hallmarks of Russian ballet training. Roudnev's signature musical direction emphasizes strong accents and tempos for the best training results. For the intermediate/advanced level student, the teacher, or the professional seeking a stay in shape class. ++++ Ballet Class with Dmitri Roudnev (Demonstration of exercises for music of Best of Ballet Class Vol V) ~ Principal Joffrey Ballet Taryn Kaschok (DVD - 2006) |
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Ballet Class Intermediate Level with Dmitri Roudnev Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances former Bolshoi soloist/Director USA National Youth Ballet Competition; Demonstrated by Jennifer Goodman soloist of the Joffrey Ballet and students of the Dmitri Roudnev Ballet School of Chicago Dmitri Roudnev (DVD - 2003) ++++ Ballet Class Intermediate Level with Dmitri Roudnev |
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Ballet Favorites / Baryshnikov, Eagling, Kolpakova ~ Lesley Collier, Anthony Dowell, Cynthia Harvey, and Natalya Makarova (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Ballet Favorites features many stunning ballet sequences on one DVD-Video. This spectacular compilation showcases the talent of many of the greatest dancers of recent years, filmed at the world’s leading venues, and combines the remarkable athleticism of Mikhail Baryshnikov and Wayne Eagling with the beauty and elegance of Irina Kolpakova, Darcey Bussell and many more ... ++++ Ballet Favorites / Baryshnikov, Eagling, Kolpakova ~ Lesley Collier, Anthony Dowell, Cynthia Harvey, and Natalya Makarova (DVD - 2004) |
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Prokofiev - Cinderella / Struchkova, Lediakh, Chadarain, Kolpakchi, Maximova, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Raisa Struchkova, Gennadi Lediakh, and Ekaterina Maximova (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This is an outstanding ballet of the timeless fairytale that has captured the hearts of young and old for centuries! Set to Sergei Prokofiev’s classic score, the Bolshoi Ballet performs in this color motion picture from 1961. Filmed with multiple cameras which created long, medium and close-up shots and special effects, this is not simply a "canned" performance, but one in which film, dance and music combine to produce an unforgettable experience. And with Raisa Struchkova in the title role, and a teenaged Yekaterina Maximova in a supporting part, this historic program is a must for ballet lovers everywhere! ++++ Prokofiev - Cinderella / Struchkova, Lediakh, Chadarain, Kolpakchi, Maximova, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Raisa Struchkova, Gennadi Lediakh, and Ekaterina Maximova (DVD - 2005) |
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Return of the Firebird: Petrushka/Firebird/Scheherazade ~ Bolshoi Ballet, Nina Ananiashvili, and Andris Liepa (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Return of the Firebird: Petrushka/Firebird/Scheherazade ~ Bolshoi Ballet, Nina Ananiashvili, and Andris Liepa (DVD - 2003) ++++ Return of the Firebird: Petrushka/Firebird/Scheherazade ~ Bolshoi Ballet, Nina Ananiashvili, and Andris Liepa (DVD - 2003) |
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Shostakovich - Bolt ~ Anastasia Yatsenko, Andrei Merkuriev, Denis Savin, and Morikhiro Iwata (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Shostakovich wrote the music for this ballet, based on a book by Viktor Smirnov, in 1931. It is a satirical look at life in the Soviet Union of the time. It basically is about individuality and love in a regimented society, disillusionment, sabotage, and betrayal. The choreography is completely classical ballet, very ambitious and complex, with plenty of solos, and groupings of every kind. The quality of the dancing is of the highest order. There is plenty of humor displayed in this ballet, including many comic dances. The sets are amazing, with full stage depth, color and impact. ++++ Shostakovich - Bolt ~ Anastasia Yatsenko, Andrei Merkuriev, Denis Savin, and Morikhiro Iwata (DVD - 2007) |
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Ashton - The Dream / Ethan Stiefel, Alessandra Ferri, Herman Cornejo, American Ballet Theater ~ Sir Frederick Ashton, American Ballet Theatre, and Ethan Stiefel (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances To celebrate the centennial of his birth, DANCE IN AMERICA presents American Ballet Theatre's acclaimed staging of Sir Frederick Ashton's magical ballet. Stars Ethan Stiefel, Alessandra Ferri, and Herman Cornejo. ++++ Ashton - The Dream / Ethan Stiefel, Alessandra Ferri, Herman Cornejo, American Ballet Theater ~ Sir Frederick Ashton, American Ballet Theatre, and Ethan Stiefel (DVD - 2004) |
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Nina Ananiashvili and the International All-Stars of Dance, Vol. 1 ~ Nina Ananiashvili, Bolshoi Ballet, and Royal Danish Ballet (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This two volume set is a real treat for ballet lovers. I myself am not at usual times terribly enthusiastic about Russian bravura dancing. To my surprise and delight, I found here two real gems within these two gala programs. Apart from all the bravura feats, which show the strong technical accomplishments of the dancers, there are two ballets, in their entire lengths, danced to perfection, one at the beginning of each volume. ++++ Nina Ananiashvili and the International All-Stars of Dance, Vol. 1 ~ Nina Ananiashvili, Bolshoi Ballet, and Royal Danish Ballet (DVD - 2003) |
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World's Young Ballet / Moscow International Competition, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Ludmila Semenyaka, Anna Pavlova ~ Alicia Alonso, Maya Plisetskaya, Ludmila Semenyaka, and Mikhail Baryshnikov (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This fascinating look at world of international ballet competitions features a young Mikhail Baryshnikov competing –and winning –in Moscow in 1969. The Moscow International Competition of Ballet Artists at the Bolshoi Theater attracts young dancers from around the world to compete for gold and silver medals, much like the Olympics. In this acclaimed film of the 1969 Competition, Baryshnikov performs an excerpt from La Bayadere and a solo from an original ballet by Leonid Jakobson entitled Vestris. Also featured in this historic documentary is a young Ludmila Semenyaka performing a scene from Act III of Giselle, as well as a modern jazz dance piece entitled We. ++++ World's Young Ballet / Moscow International Competition, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Ludmila Semenyaka, Anna Pavlova ~ Alicia Alonso, Maya Plisetskaya, Ludmila Semenyaka, and Mikhail Baryshnikov (DVD - 2007) |
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Baryshnikov Dances Sinatra and More, a.k.a Baryshnikov Dances Tharp/ Baryshnikov, American Ballet Theatre (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances The three ballets on this remarkable DVD tell no stories, but they are full of human drama. In one sense, they all tell the same story--of the vitality, daring, intelligence, and emotional depth that a great dancer possesses.They are also about a brilliant choreographer’s vision of that dancer and of dance itself. As Mikhail Baryshnikov says in the breezy commentary that links the ballets, Twyla Tharp is "classical but in a new way." She has the classical artist’s regard for form and technique and a musicality that some compare to that of George Balanchine, but her approach is always personal, radical and contemporary ."THE LITTLE BALLET" Music: Alexander Glazounov. Cast: Mikhail Baryshnikov, Deidre Carberry, Elaine Kudo, Amanda McKerrow, Nancy Raffa The Little Ballet, to music by Alexander Glazounov, offers Baryshnikov, Deidre Carberry, and three other American Ballet Theatre dancers in a sweet-tempered, fluid work that makes subtle allusions to the dreamer-hero-elusive-heroine ballets of the 19th century. "SINATRA SUITE" Performed to the music of Frank Sinatra. Cast: Mikhail Baryshnikov, Elaine Kudo In Sinatra Suite, Baryshnikov and Elain Kudo express the less innocent world of Sinatra’s moody, bittersweet voice –from the tender "Strangers In The Night" to the tough and contentious "That’s Life. ""PUSH COMES TO SHOVE" Music: Joseph Lamb, Franz Joseph Haydn. Cast:Mikhail Baryshnikov, Elaine Kudo, Susan Jaffe, Robert LaFosse, Cheryl Yeager and Members of American Ballet Theatre. Choreography: Twyla Tharp. Push Comes To Shove, created by Tharp in 1976 for American Ballet Theatre, can be seen as a witty and affectionate tribute to a major ballet company – its casual rehearsal behavior and backstage commotion, as well as its traditional grandeur and polished performing. ++++ Baryshnikov Dances Sinatra and More, a.k.a Baryshnikov Dances Tharp/ Baryshnikov, American Ballet Theatre (DVD - 2005) |
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Mats Ek - Appartement / Osta, Le Riche, Gillot, Martinez, Belarbi, Paris Opera Ballet ~ Clairemarie Osta, Nicolas Le Riche, and Marie-Agnes Gillot (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This dvd is my new favorite thing! I've watched and enjoyed Mats Ek's work before, though I sometimes find it a little out there for me, but this one is beautiful! No qualifying remarks, no astriks, just absolutely beautiful. I teach dance and choreography and showed excerpts from this in my class. The students were inspired and many asked where they could get the dvd after class. For me, this one has everthing I love about dance-- human, amazing, unusual movement, beautiful stage design, and beautiful dancers. When you need to defend ballet technique and explain that it isn't all about Sleeping Beauty, this is a good one to watch. ++++ Mats Ek - Appartement / Osta, Le Riche, Gillot, Martinez, Belarbi, Paris Opera Ballet ~ Clairemarie Osta, Nicolas Le Riche, and Marie-Agnes Gillot (DVD - 2005) |
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ABT In San Francisco / American Ballet Theatre ~ Paul Connelly (II), Natalya Makarova, and Kevin McKenzie (II) (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances ABT In San Francisco is a dazzling display of choreographic and dancing virtuosity, an excellent precise corps in traditional and modern ballet highlights. That ambitious claim is fully justified by brilliant performances, ranging from Handel's Airs, Chausson's Jardin Aux Lilas, Tschaikovsky's The Black Swan, Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet and Gottschalk's Great Galloping Gottschalk. Live from the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, with the San Francisco Opera Orchestra. ++++ ABT In San Francisco / American Ballet Theatre ~ Paul Connelly (II), Natalya Makarova, and Kevin McKenzie (II) (DVD - 2005) |
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Glory of the Kirov / Mikhail Baryshnikov, Rudolf Nureyev, Natalia Makarova, Natalia Dudinskaya, more ~ Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances In October 1993, the St. Petersburg documentary film company, MIRIS, sent out a fax to the West – almost like a message in a bottle. They needed a partner to complete a series of documentary films on Russian ballet. NVC ARTS, with a long tradition of working with the Bolshoi and the Kirov, responded to the call.The two directors of MIRIS had spent five years researching state archives, museums and private collections, discovering many wonderful items that had never been shown anywhere. For the first time, thanks to the new political situation, it was possible to bring the material out of Russia. It was carefully treated by the most up-to-date methods to achieve the best technical quality of both picture and sound. The result is the two films The Glory of the Kirov and The Glory of the Bolshoi, both available now on DVD ++++ Glory of the Kirov / Mikhail Baryshnikov, Rudolf Nureyev, Natalia Makarova, Natalia Dudinskaya, more ~ Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2005) |
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The Bolshoi Ballet: Romeo and Juliet, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty ~ Natalya Bessmertnova, Irek Mukhamedov, and Natalya Arkhipova (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances The Bolshoi Ballet: Romeo and Juliet, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty ~ Natalya Bessmertnova, Irek Mukhamedov, and Natalya Arkhipova (DVD - 2007) ++++ The Bolshoi Ballet: Romeo and Juliet, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty ~ Natalya Bessmertnova, Irek Mukhamedov, and Natalya Arkhipova (DVD - 2007) |
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The Children of Theatre Street - The Story of the Kirov Ballet School ~ Grace Kelly, Konstantin Saklinsky, and Angelina Armeiskaya (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Theatre Street is the popular name for Rossi Street, on which the entrance to the Kirov's school is located. Entrance exams are held annually. Thousands of children, aged 10-12, apply; only 20 are selected. Some of the rigorous audition process is shown--the children are chosen for specific physical proportions and natural physical abilities. As the narrator tells us, "Talent is considered worth measuring only when it occurs in the right body." Those chosen face eight years of relative luxury and privilege in the Soviet Union, but also a life of hard work and discipline. ++++ The Children of Theatre Street - The Story of the Kirov Ballet School ~ Grace Kelly, Konstantin Saklinsky, and Angelina Armeiskaya (DVD - 2004) |
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The Australian Ballet - Coppelia ~ Colin Peasley, Lisa Bolte, Greg Horsman, and Lisa Pavane (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This Coppelia is a traditional ballet from start to finish and one that is timeless in the way of all the best and best-loved fairy tales’ – Sunday Telegraph. This delightful ballet tells the story of Dr Coppelius, a toymaker and magician, who attempts to bring to life his beautiful doll, Coppelia. He is fooled by the mischievous Swanilda, who masquerades as Coppelia and saves her lover Franz from the doctor’s magic. From a tale by Hoffman. With Lisa Pavane, Greg Horsman, The Australian Ballet. ++++ The Australian Ballet - Coppelia ~ Colin Peasley, Lisa Bolte, Greg Horsman, and Lisa Pavane (DVD - 2004) |
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Divine Dancers - Live from Prague / Prague State Opera ~ Igor Zelensky, Daniil Simkin, Oksana Kutcheruk, Roman Mikhalev Polina Semionova (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This DVD covers a ballet gala performed in Prague in January, 2006. The pieces are from classical and modern ballet and consist of solos, pas de deux, and a pas de quatre. The dancers all dance with amazing technique and expression, and there are behind the scenes rehearsals and interviews thrown in before each of the pieces. ++++ Divine Dancers - Live from Prague / Prague State Opera ~ Igor Zelensky, Daniil Simkin, Oksana Kutcheruk, Roman Mikhalev Polina Semionova (DVD - 2006) |
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The Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake/The Nutcracker/Sleeping Beauty ~ Tchaikovsky, Royal Ballet, and Royal Swedish Ballet (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances The Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake/The Nutcracker/Sleeping Beauty ~ Tchaikovsky, Royal Ballet, and Royal Swedish Ballet (DVD - 2007) ++++ The Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake/The Nutcracker/Sleeping Beauty ~ Tchaikovsky, Royal Ballet, and Royal Swedish Ballet (DVD - 2007) |
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Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake ~ Margot Fonteyn, Rudolf Nureyev, and Vienna State Opera Ballet (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn. No other ballet partnership is as legendary -- the fiery Russian defector and the graceful, aging English ballerina formed a bond on and off the stage that for several years practically defined romantic ballet. Thus, for this very reason, hardcore balletomanes should get this dvd. ++++ Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake ~ Margot Fonteyn, Rudolf Nureyev, and Vienna State Opera Ballet (DVD - 2005) |
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Nureyev's Don Quixote / Lanchbery, Nureyev, Helpmann, Aldous, Australian Ballet ~ Alan Alder, Lucette Aldous, Ronald Bekker, and Kelvin Coe (DVD - 2000) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This 1973 film treatment of the ballet classic Don Quixote has a spaciousness, a freedom of movement often missing when a staged ballet production is taped for television. It captures the art of Rudolf Nureyev at the height of his powers, both as a dancer and as a choreographer. With distinguished supporting performances by Robert Helpmann and Lucette Aldous, the production balances lyric and narrative elements, wit and pathos, satire and idealism, with virtuoso solo and ensemble dancing. Nureyev, a perfectionist, had an enormous airplane hangar in Australia transformed into a studio for the 25 days he spent dancing and shooting this episode in the crazy life of Cervantes's mock-epic hero. The routine 19th-century score by Ludwig Minkus has been modestly upgraded by conductor John Lanchbery, contributing positively to the performance's energy. ++++ Nureyev's Don Quixote / Lanchbery, Nureyev, Helpmann, Aldous, Australian Ballet ~ Alan Alder, Lucette Aldous, Ronald Bekker, and Kelvin Coe (DVD - 2000) |
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The Finis Jhung Ballet Technique Level 1: Barrework for Beginners ~ Finis Jhung (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances From head to toe, Finis Jhung gives you a fresh new view of the essential ideas of classical ballet that will transform your physique -- and your psyche. The emphasis here is on learning ballet from the inside-out, instead of outside in. Exercises on this video: 1. Number One; 2. Turning out, demi plié in 1st position; 3. Isometric grand pliés, relevé; 4. Battement tendu en croix, 1st position; 5. Port de bras; 6. Battement tendu à la seconde, grand plié, relevé & balance, 1st position;7. Battement tendu devant & derrière, demi plié, 1st position; 8. Working the foot, attitude à la seconde, relevé in plié, 1st position; 9. Battement dégagé & attitude à la seconde, relevé & balance; 10. Battement dégagé devant & derrière, stretches, 1st position; 11. Battement tendu en croix, demi plié, relevé & balance, 5th position; 12. Rond de jambe à terre; 13. Dégagé en croix, demi plié, 5th position, balance cou-de-pied derrière; 14. Fondu en croix, balance retiré derrère; 15. Grand battement devant, port de bras; 16. Grand battement derrière, tendu plie, relevé; 17. Grand battement à la seconde, demi plie. Taught by Finis Jhung. Demonstrated by Jennifer Harmer. Music by Scott Killian Running Time: 90 minutes ++++ The Finis Jhung Ballet Technique Level 1: Barrework for Beginners ~ Finis Jhung (DVD - 2006) |
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Carolyn Carlson - Signes ~ Marie-Agnes Gillot, Kader Belarbi, Rene Aubrey, and Paris Opera Ballet (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Carolyn Carlson - Signes ~ Marie-Agnes Gillot, Kader Belarbi, Rene Aubrey, and Paris Opera Ballet (DVD - 2007) ++++ Carolyn Carlson - Signes ~ Marie-Agnes Gillot, Kader Belarbi, Rene Aubrey, and Paris Opera Ballet (DVD - 2007) |
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Tinkerbell Dance Studio: Learn Ballet - Step-By-Step ~ Learn Ballet Step By Step (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This DVD is a good introduction for kids who are very keen to learn ballet. It is presented in the format of a class, taught by Michelle Lundberg. Kids are introduced to 1st through to 5th positions, Plies, Tondus, Degajes, Rondejambs, Passes, Piques, Pas De Bourres, Balances, and jumps. ++++ Tinkerbell Dance Studio: Learn Ballet - Step-By-Step ~ Learn Ballet Step By Step (DVD - 2007) |
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Giselle ~ Alicia Alonso, Vladimir Vasiliev, and National Ballet of Cuba (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Giselle ~ Alicia Alonso, Vladimir Vasiliev, and National Ballet of Cuba (DVD - 2007) ++++ Giselle ~ Alicia Alonso, Vladimir Vasiliev, and National Ballet of Cuba (DVD - 2007) |
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Baryshnikov - Live at Wolf Trap ~ Gelsey Kirkland, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Marianna Tcherkassky (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Baryshnikov's American Television debut! This 1976 live performance showcases the incredible Mikhail Baryshnikov, at the peak of his talents, shortly after arriving in the west. The DVD features Baryshnikov in solos and pas de deux with a variety of ballerinas, including Gelsey Kirkland, his first great U.S. partner. The program also includes Misha's spectacular leaps and spins in Don Quixote. This is the live event Baryshnikov's fans have been waiting for! ++++ Baryshnikov - Live at Wolf Trap ~ Gelsey Kirkland, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Marianna Tcherkassky (DVD - 2004) |
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Britten - The Prince of the Pagodas / Bussell, Cope, Chadwick, Dowell, MacMillan, Royal Ballet ~ Darcey Bussell, Jonathan Cope, and Anthony Dowell (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Sir Kenneth MacMillan's glorious version of The Prince of the Pagodas provides a fascinating and magnificent spectacle of classical dance on the grandest scale. Nicholas Georgiadis' enchanting designs complement Britten's only ballet score by establishing a fairy tale ambience, and Darcey Bussell produces a dazzling performance as Princess Rose. "The principal players are magnificent. A grand achievement". THE FINANCIAL TIMES. Also includes Out of Line, a documentary portrait of the influential British choreographer Sir Kenneth MacMillan, with extracts from many of his ballets including The Burrow, Romeo and Juliet, Gloria, Manon, and The Prince of the Pagodas. ++++ Britten - The Prince of the Pagodas / Bussell, Cope, Chadwick, Dowell, MacMillan, Royal Ballet ~ Darcey Bussell, Jonathan Cope, and Anthony Dowell (DVD - 2005) |
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Choreography By Balanchine / Chaconne, Prodigal Son, Ballo Della Regina, Elegie, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux ~ New York City Ballet, George Balanchine, and Suzanne Farrell (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances A MUST HAVE for ballet dancers, dance teachers and coreographers. This dvd bring us back the presition in movements and beatifull lines of Mr. genius Balanchine's creations. kind of old videorecordings...but still the magic on it. there are some works missing on this dvd and the other one (tzigane/jewels...etc) like serenade, star and stripes...etc...we hope in the future comes out more balanchines dvds with all the great coreographies and great music that he always used. ++++ Choreography By Balanchine / Chaconne, Prodigal Son, Ballo Della Regina, Elegie, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux ~ New York City Ballet, George Balanchine, and Suzanne Farrell (DVD - 2004) |
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Macbeth / Kirill Molchanov, Vladimir Vasiliev, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Molchanov, Bolshoi Ballet, Fadeyechev, and Mansurov (DVD - 2008) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Shakespeare s masterpiece of murder and intrigue in mist-shrouded Scotland is brought to life through dance in this superb production by the Bolshoi ballet, choreographed by Vladimir Vasiliev to a powerful score by composer Kirill Molchanov. Macbeth stars Alexei Fadeyechev in the title role, and Nina Timofeyeva as his unscrupulous consort. Vasiliev has included most of the primary themes of the Shakespeare s drama the meeting with the three witches (the weird sisters who prophesy Macbeth s glory and Banquo s death), the gnawing ambition of Lady Macbeth, the murders of King Duncan and Banquo, and the torment suffered by both Macbeth and his wife after they have completed their bloody climb to the Scottish throne. Vladimir Vasiliev has also elaborated magnificently on several motives that are tailor-made for choreography, while never allowing them to degenerate into mere display: the opening battle between Scottish and Norwegian armies and the banquet scene during which Macbeth defeats Banquo in a competition of strength. These are superb examples of modern ensemble dancing that heighten the dramatic impact of the work as a whole. ++++ Macbeth / Kirill Molchanov, Vladimir Vasiliev, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Molchanov, Bolshoi Ballet, Fadeyechev, and Mansurov (DVD - 2008) |
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ALICE IN WONDERLAND: A Dance Fantasy ~ Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and The Prague Chamber Ballet (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Lewis Carroll's bewitching, playful and eccentric tale has captured the world's imagination and fascinated children for over 125 years. Now Alice, the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts come to life as never before in this unique ballet adaptation that is every bit as original as the story itself. A magnificent array of costumes, colors and sets create a Wonderland of kaleidoscopic beauty. The interweaving of ballet, mime, acrobatics and theater gracefully dramatizes the story. With the mesmerizing music of Viktor Kalabis, flawlessly performed by the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and danced by the The Prague Chamber Ballet, this production creates an unparalleled DVD presentation that will undoubtedly delight the whole family. ++++ ALICE IN WONDERLAND: A Dance Fantasy ~ Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and The Prague Chamber Ballet (DVD - 2007) |
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Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake / Makarova, Dowell, Royal Ballet Covent Garden ~ Natalia Makarova, et al. (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances It is difficult to believe today that Swan Lake was a failure on its production in 1877 and was not successful until the Petipa/Ivanov version of 1895. Today it is regarded as one of the greatest works in the art of ballet. The magic of Tchaikovsky’s music, embodying the love of Prince Siegfried for the enchanted Swan Queen, has greatly contributed to making this the best loved of all classical ballets. This production, with designs by the late Leslie Hurry, stars Natalia Makarova as Odette-Odile and Anthony Dowell as Prince Siegfried. Prince Siegfried celebrates his twenty-first birthday; his mother tells him it is time to marry, but he prefers to go hunting. Alone, by a lakeside, he sees a swan who turns to human form. She is an enchanted princess who can be saved only by true love. He promises this, but is tricked by the wicked magician who disguises his own daughter as the swan-maiden. In despair, Siegfried and the swan-maiden leap to death together and their sacrifice destroys the evil power. ++++ Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake / Makarova, Dowell, Royal Ballet Covent Garden ~ Natalia Makarova, et al. (DVD - 2003) |
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The Ultimate Swan Lake / Bolshoi Ballet, Bolshoi Theatre ~ Tchaikovsky, Bassmertnova, Bogatyrev, and Zhuraitis (DVD - 2008) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances The aristocratic beauty of the Bolshoi makes The Ultimate Swan Lake alive with ennobling presence and artistry. Natalia Bessmertnova is soft and lyrical in the dual role of Odette and Odile; her eminently feminine quality makes her the ideal interpreter of this classic. The elegance and magnetism of Siegfried is masterfully created by Alexander Bogatyrev. The Ultimate Swan Lake is an exquisitely designed, opulently mounted production unlike any other. Choreographed by the critically acclaimed Yuri Grigorvich, with the Moscow Symphonic Orchestra under the baton of Algis Zhuraitis. Gene Kelly host-narrates this production, which is The Ultimate ballet treasure on video. ++++ The Ultimate Swan Lake / Bolshoi Ballet, Bolshoi Theatre ~ Tchaikovsky, Bassmertnova, Bogatyrev, and Zhuraitis (DVD - 2008) |
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Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake / Zakharova, Bolle, Sutera, Chisleni, Brazzo, Vallone, Tuggle, La Scala Ballet ~ Svetlana Zakharova, Gianni Chisleni, Roberto Bolle, and Antonio Sutera (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This new dvd from La Scala Ballet is notable for two things: 1. It's the famous Vladimir Bourmeister production, which the Paris Opera Ballet used for years prior to Nureyev's production; and 2. it preserves Svetlana Zakharova's Odette/Odile on film. Bourmeister's production differs from most Western productions of Swan Lake in several respects. One is that, like the Soviet productions, there is a prominent role for a Jester in Acts 1 and 3. The Jester in this case is Antonino Sutera. Personally I find the Jester distracting, but that's just my bias. Also, the pas de trois is in this production a pas de quatre. ++++ Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake / Zakharova, Bolle, Sutera, Chisleni, Brazzo, Vallone, Tuggle, La Scala Ballet ~ Svetlana Zakharova, Gianni Chisleni, Roberto Bolle, and Antonio Sutera (DVD - 2005) |
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SIMPLY BALLET: A Master Ballet Class For Beginners ~ Michelle Benash (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances If you're a beginner continuing to enjoy Classical Ballet, join American Ballet Theatre ballerina MIchelle Benash as she instructs both her young students and YOU in this easy to follow along master class. Begin at the barre, chasse` to the center combinations and work your way through the variety of leaps and turns. Soon, you'll be dancing the grand allegro set to a lively waltz. Simply brilliant-Simply Ballet ++++ SIMPLY BALLET: A Master Ballet Class For Beginners ~ Michelle Benash (DVD - 2005) |
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Mozart - The Great Mass / Kimura, Bohm, Kulchytska, Chappuis, You, Gura, Rohlig, Balazs Kocsar, Scholz, Leipzig Ballet Opera ~ Uwe Scholz, Werner Gura, Friedemann Rohlig, and Marie-Claude Chappuis (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances A blend of classical, modern, and ultra-modern ballet. It is the only ballet that I have seen that compares female ballet dancing in soft ballet slippers with dancing on pointe, at times side by side(women always dance in both slippers and pointe shoes during their daily routine, but usually perform on stage only on pointe). The men use the normal ballet slippers(nobody dances barefoot in this). The ballet begins with a rather typical modern group dance but soon evolves into other forms. It even has a section of a parody of ballet class and features a center exercise for men and women(the women are on pointe in this section). Another comic moment is a man and woman exploring each other's body in a very mechanical, nonsensual manner--except for the last move, which is very sensual. The music is mostly Mozart's Great Mass in C Minor with a few other works by Mozart and also some modern composers. This was a live performance and the singers are very prominently highlighted by the camera. The lead soprano is Eunyee You. Her voice is golden and angelic. The music is beautifully performed and inspiring by all of the musicians. The dancing is flawless(and don't worry-- if you like pirouettes there are many of every variety in this). The last part of this performance is a memorial to the choreographer, Uwe Scholz, who died several months before this performance. The dancers come out in thier street clothes, sit down, and cool down while they listen to a memorial poem(there are actually several moments of narration in this ballet so be sure to set the subtitles). If you like modern ballet, this is for you! ++++ Mozart - The Great Mass / Kimura, Bohm, Kulchytska, Chappuis, You, Gura, Rohlig, Balazs Kocsar, Scholz, Leipzig Ballet Opera ~ Uwe Scholz, Werner Gura, Friedemann Rohlig, and Marie-Claude Chappuis (DVD - 2005) |
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Delibes - Coppelia / Kirov, Vinogradov, Tarasova ~ Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Coppélia is a classical ballet in the true sense, and with its touch of East European folklore, continues to enjoy worldwide popularity. It combines the romance between Swanilda and Franz with the story of the doll-maker Coppelius, whose greatest desire is to create a doll with a soul. Franz immediately falls in love with Coppélia, who he thinks is real, but eventually recognizes is just a doll. He returns to Swanilda, after which the final grand divertissement sees everyone reconciled. Music: Leo Delibes. New Version Choreographed And Staged By Oleg Vinogradov. Original Libretto: Charles Nuitter & Arthur Saint-Léon After A Story by E.T.A. Hoffmann. Swanilda: Irina Shapchits. Franz: Mikhail Zavialov. Coppelius: Petr Rusanov. Coppélia: Elvira Tarasova. Swanilda’s Friends:Tatiana Salnikova, Marina Tchirkova, Anastasia Dunets, Tatiana Rusanova. Set Design: Vyacheslav Okunov. Costume Design: Irina Press. ++++ Delibes - Coppelia / Kirov, Vinogradov, Tarasova ~ Kirov Ballet (DVD - 2006) |
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Khachaturian - Spartacus / Mukhamedov, Semenyaka, Vetrov, Bilova, Zhuraitis, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Irek Mukhamedov, Maria Bilova, Lyudmilla Semenyaka, and Algis Zhuraitis (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Khachaturian - Spartacus / Mukhamedov, Semenyaka, Vetrov, Bilova, Zhuraitis, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Irek Mukhamedov, Maria Bilova, Lyudmilla Semenyaka, and Algis Zhuraitis (DVD - 2005) ++++ Khachaturian - Spartacus / Mukhamedov, Semenyaka, Vetrov, Bilova, Zhuraitis, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Irek Mukhamedov, Maria Bilova, Lyudmilla Semenyaka, and Algis Zhuraitis (DVD - 2005) |
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Opera Concert Ballet 07 (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances DESCRIPTION ++++ Opera Concert Ballet 07 (DVD - 2007) |
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Lar Lubovitch's Othello / San Francisco Ballet (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Modern dance master Lar Lubovitch has created a vibrant new interpretation of Shakespeare's classic tale of passion and jealousy, ambition and betrayal, with his dance in three acts. A compelling synthesis of classical and modern movement, Lubovitch's original choreography is complimented by a powerful score by Academy Award-winning composer Elliot Goldenthal (Frida, heightening the emotional volitility of the central characters as the ballet's tragedy unfolds. Hailed by the San Francisco Chronicle as "a major new chapter in American ballet as well as a spectacular addition to the international repertory," the San Francisco Ballet's production features Desmond Richardson as Othello, Yuan Yuan Tan as Desdemona and Parrish Maynard as the treacherous Iago. 16x9 Anamorphic Widescreen; 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound. ++++ Lar Lubovitch's Othello / San Francisco Ballet (DVD - 2003) |
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Prima Princessa Presents Swan Lake ~ Paris Opera Ballet (DVD - 2007) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Magical Dance Adventure! Created by two moms who love to have fun, "Prima Princessa Presents Swan Lake" inspires and stimulates young minds. This enchanting new approach to learning about classical ballet through nature, toys, music and laughter will mesmerize children and parents alike. What's Inside: The animated fairy ballerina, Prima Princessa, magically transports a group of pre-school girls to see the ballet Swan Lake performed by the Paris Opera Ballet. Prima Princessa delightfully narrates the story of Swan Lake (featuring a happy ending) to the girls. In between each act, the children return home, dress up in fun pretty tutus, and learn a simple ballet step. Each step is playfully shown mixed into a colorful montage of toys, animals, children and young dancers from the School of American Ballet. ++++ Prima Princessa Presents Swan Lake ~ Paris Opera Ballet (DVD - 2007) |
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Delibes - Sylvia / Aurelie Dupont, Manuel Legris, Nicolas Le Riche, Marie-Agnes Gillot, Jose Martinez, Paris Opera Ballet ~ Delibes, Neumeier, Ballet De L'Opera, and Paul Connelly (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Delibes - Sylvia / Aurelie Dupont, Manuel Legris, Nicolas Le Riche, Marie-Agnes Gillot, Jose Martinez, Paris Opera Ballet ~ Delibes, Neumeier, Ballet De L'Opera, and Paul Connelly (DVD - 2006) ++++ Delibes - Sylvia / Aurelie Dupont, Manuel Legris, Nicolas Le Riche, Marie-Agnes Gillot, Jose Martinez, Paris Opera Ballet ~ Delibes, Neumeier, Ballet De L'Opera, and Paul Connelly (DVD - 2006) |
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Etoiles - Dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet ~ Laurent Hilaire, Aurélie Dupont, Elisabeth Platel, and Nicolas Le Riche (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances This dvd is beautifully done and very up to date. It provides a very interesting look into the life of ballet dancers in France. It has those wonderful segments of classroom rehersals that students of ballet ( such as myself ) long to see in documentaries ( for example, a very intersting classroom performance of the male solo adagio at the end of act one of Swan Lake is provided ). This dvd is a "must have" addition to any serious dance video collection. ++++ Etoiles - Dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet ~ Laurent Hilaire, Aurélie Dupont, Elisabeth Platel, and Nicolas Le Riche (DVD - 2003) |
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Bizet - Carmen Suite / Plisetskaya, Fadeyechev, Radchenko, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Maria Plisetskaya, Nicolai Fadeyechev, and Sergei Radchenko (DVD - 2004) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances VAI DVD 4294 Maria Plisetskaya, Nikolai Fadeyechev, Sergei Radchenko, Bolshoi Ballet. Choregraphy by Alberto Alonso. Music by Rodion Schedrin. Bonuses of Plisetskaya in performance – "Dying Swan", "Raymonda Variations", Bach Prelude". Approx. 70 min. Color. 1970’s film ++++ Bizet - Carmen Suite / Plisetskaya, Fadeyechev, Radchenko, Bolshoi Ballet ~ Maria Plisetskaya, Nicolai Fadeyechev, and Sergei Radchenko (DVD - 2004) |
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Le Corsaire ~ Kirov Opera Ballet, et al. (DVD - 2005) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances Magnificent scenic effects and dramatic choreography have ensured the popularity of Petipa’s exotic ballet Le Corsaire, a story of pirates and shipwreck, set on the Ionian coast. This production features the Kirov Ballet with Altynai Asylmuratova and Faroukh Ruzimatov who give exuberant and extroverted performances. "…the leading dancers were little short of sensational". THE STAGE. With the Kirov Theatre Orchestra ++++ Le Corsaire ~ Kirov Opera Ballet, et al. (DVD - 2005) |
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Nina Ananiashvili and the International All-Stars of Dance, Vol. 2 ~ Nina Ananiashvili, Bolshoi Ballet, and New York City Ballet (DVD - 2003) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances The opening "Pas de Quartre" is 17 minutes of heavenly dancing by Nina Ananiashivili, Rose Gad, Tatyana Terekova, and Darci Kistler. The charming music of Cesare Pugni is the perfect complement to this celebration of femininity. Ananiashvili is especially captivating and the muse of ballet shows even in her eyes. "Satanella" (music also by Pugni) follows with the nicely-paired Inna Dorofeeva and Vadim Pisarev. She is innocently girlish; he is playfully impish, and they both dance flawlessly. "Sunny" is a solo piece with Andris Liepa and is one of the few non-classical selections. Elisabeth Platel and Nicolas Le Riche from the Paris Opera Ballet perform Auber's "Grand pas Classique." He gets a face full of tutu as he lets Platel down from a lift, but their dancing (especially hers) is inspirational. Aleksei Fadeechev makes his first appearance with Ananiashvili in "Raymonda." They are often partnered (as in "Swan Lake" and "Don Quixote") and work well together. He is as strong as an ox and takes good care of my sweetheart on the lifts. Zhanna Ayupova and Igor Zelensky perform variations from the Kingdom of the Shades act of "Bayadere." Both offered strong, well-received performances. Tatyana Terekova returns in a performance of "The Talisman" with Yury Posokhov. ++++ Nina Ananiashvili and the International All-Stars of Dance, Vol. 2 ~ Nina Ananiashvili, Bolshoi Ballet, and New York City Ballet (DVD - 2003) |
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Ballet 101 & 201, Combinations 1 - DVD ~ Jennifer Nunes (DVD - 2006) Great Dance Performances 
Popular Ballet Performances We taught you beginning ballet moves in "Ballet 101, A Beginner’s Class" and "Ballet 201, Beyond the Basics". This addition to the series picks-up from there, giving students a chance to develop even further by introducing new dance pieces. After warming-up and stretching, an instructor uses the ballet moves you’ve learned, then adds new moves to choreograph and pace you through a variety of dance combinations found in ballet classes and performances throughout the world: Adagio, Waltz, Petite Allegro, Grand Allegro and Reverence. "Combinations 1" focuses on choreography, stage presence, and performance quality. New ballet steps and trickier footwork are introduced to make the combinations unique. Although ballet is a graceful workout that can improve carriage, increase flexibility and strengthen the body, this is not designed to be a workout tape. Dance now, and take your bow! ++++ Ballet 101 & 201, Combinations 1 - DVD ~ Jennifer Nunes (DVD - 2006) |
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