Classical Ballet with Michelangelo Canale

Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810) is often called the father of modern ballet, not because he invented steps, but because he rethought why dancers move. In his influential book Letters on Dancing and Ballets , Noverre argued that ballet should express feeling and story, not just technical brilliance. For him, technique only mattered if it supported clarity, ease, and emotional truth onstage. I have been reading his book again because I find a lot of his information fascinating. When Noverre discussed turnout, he was notably cautious and forward-thinking. He warned against forcing turnout from the feet or knees and insisted it must originate naturally from the hips. Among the most important exercises, he emphasized slow, fundamental movements practiced with care. Pliés were essential for gently opening and aligning the hips, while controlled battements helped strengthen outward rotation. Noverre also considered rond de jambe especially important for turnout because of its circular acti...