Carlotta grisi giselle galante

Ballet in the Romantic era, spanning the early to mid-19th century, introduced emotion, dramatic storytelling, and supernatural themes to dance. This period brought iconic works like ‘Giselle’ and ‘La Sylphide’ and influential dancers such as Marie Taglioni.

This article explores these transformations and their lasting impact on ballet.

A significant feature of this era was the emergence of ‘ballet blanc,’ which emphasized ethereal and otherworldly qualities in performances.

Key Takeaways

• Romantic ballet emerged in the early 19th century, characterized by emotional storytelling, supernatural themes, and an emphasis on the ethereal nature of its performances.
• Key figures, such as Marie Taglioni and Fanny Elssler, transformed the role of female dancers, setting new technical and artistic benchmarks while popularizing the use of pointe work and the romantic tutu.
• The legacy of Romantic ballet continues to influence contemporary works through it