DNC 150 - Ballet I

2 Credits, 3 Contact Hours
1 lecture period 2 lab periods

Introduction to the theory and practice of ballet at the beginning level. Includes terminology, barre, floor work, standing and center floor work, locomotor work, elements, and developing the craft.

Information: May be taken two times for a maximum of four credit hours. If this course is repeated, see a financial aid or Veteran’s Affairs advisor to determine funding eligibility as appropriate.

1. Discuss the terminology of ballet in French terms.
2. Demonstrate correct placement and alignment for ballet at the beginning level.
3. Use basic locomotor and axial movements at the barre, in center floor, and across the floor at the beginning level.
4. Identify correct components of ballet technique, theories, and styles at the beginning level.
5. Utilize the theory of the body’s relationship to gravity and the center of gravity used in ballet at the beginning level.
6. Practice the basic elements of dance: space, time, and energy at the beginning level.
7. Apply technical skills, theories, and style in performance of ballet at the beginning level.

1. Ballet (Dance) Terminology
2. Barre
   1. Basic placement and centering
   2. Positions of the feet
   3. Positions of the arms
   4. Positions of the torso
   5. Foot and leg articulation
   6. Balance
   7. Stretching
3. Floor Work
   1. Flexibility techniques

1. Various types of stretches
2. Theories of stretching
   1. Basic floor positions
   2. Strength concepts
3. Standing and Center Floor Work
   1. Basic placement and centering
   2. Positions of the feet
   3. Positions of the arms
   4. Positions of the torso work
   5. Leg and foot articulation
   6. Axial work
   7. Adagio – slow work
   8. Turns

1. Locomotor Work
   1. Allegro – fast work
   2. Beginning combinations

1. Space awareness
2. Time awareness
3. Energy awareness
   1. Beginning traveling movements
   2. Beginning aerial (jumping, leaping) movements
4. Elements
   1. Energy
   2. Space
   3. Time
5. Developing the Craft
   1. Dynamics
   2. Stage directions
   3. Basic performance skills

1. Focus
2. Style