Art in Motion

Neoclassical ballet emerged in the early to mid-20th century as a reaction against the excesses and extravagance of Romantic ballet, spearheaded by Sergei Diaghilev with the Ballet Russes and introduced to America by George Balanchine. It encourages experimentation, innovation, and a departure from strict conventions while still maintaining a foundation in classical technique. The emphasis shifts from narrative to the beauty of the dance itself, with many neoclassical ballets being completely plotless. Art in Motion begins to illustrate the significance of the style through more familiar mediums.