San Francisco Ballet

Definition

San Francisco Ballet is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet companies in the United States, founded in 1933. It has played a significant role in popularizing ballet in America and has been influential in the development of contemporary dance forms, showcasing a diverse repertoire that includes classical ballets and new works by innovative choreographers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. San Francisco Ballet was the first ballet company in America to present an all-Balanchine program, showcasing its commitment to both classical and contemporary works.
2. The company is known for its annual production of 'The Nutcracker,' which has become a beloved holiday tradition and attracts thousands of audience members each year.
3. San Francisco Ballet's school is one of the leading ballet schools in the country, training young dancers and providing a strong foundation for future professional dancers.
4. The company has a reputation for commissioning new works from both established and emerging choreographers, helping to advance the art of ballet in contemporary contexts.
5. San Francisco Ballet has toured internationally, promoting American ballet and collaborating with other prestigious dance companies around the world.

Review Questions

• How has San Francisco Ballet contributed to the evolution of American ballet?
  • San Francisco Ballet has significantly contributed to American ballet by being at the forefront of both preserving classical traditions and embracing contemporary innovations. The company was instrumental in introducing works by famous choreographers like George Balanchine, which helped shape the American ballet landscape. Additionally, its commitment to commissioning new works has allowed for fresh perspectives within the ballet community, making it a key player in the evolution of dance in America.
• What impact does the annual performance of 'The Nutcracker' have on San Francisco Ballet's reputation and community engagement?
  • The annual performance of 'The Nutcracker' greatly enhances San Francisco Ballet's reputation as a cultural institution and fosters community engagement. This production draws large audiences each holiday season, serving as an introduction to ballet for many families. By making this classic accessible, San Francisco Ballet strengthens its connection to the community, encourages appreciation for the art form, and establishes itself as a vital part of local traditions.
• Evaluate how San Francisco Ballet's approach to commissioning new works influences contemporary ballet in America.
  • San Francisco Ballet's proactive approach to commissioning new works significantly influences contemporary ballet in America by encouraging innovation and diversifying the repertoire. By working with both established and emerging choreographers, the company fosters creativity that challenges traditional norms and explores new themes relevant to modern audiences. This not only enriches their own performances but also inspires other companies to embrace contemporary dance forms, ultimately shaping the future of American ballet.

Related terms

George Balanchine:

A renowned ballet choreographer who co-founded the New York City Ballet and greatly influenced the development of ballet in America through his innovative choreography and emphasis on athleticism.

Nutcracker: A classic ballet by Tchaikovsky, often performed during the holiday season, which has become a traditional part of the repertoire for many ballet companies, including San Francisco Ballet.

Modern Dance: A broad genre of dance that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a reaction against classical ballet, characterized by a focus on expressive movement and innovation.