Throwback Thursday and Bournonville
Dancers are familiar with the unique grand jeté known as the
Bournonville leap. But many dancers don’t
know that this term honors August Bournonville, a famous dancer and dance
teacher. He directed the Royal Danish
Ballet for almost 50 years. He also
established the Danish style of ballet, which is instantly recognizable for its
quick footwork, jumps and expressive mime.
It is interesting to note that Bournonville’s father was French, his
mother Swedish, so this man who became so associated with Danish ballet, wasn’t
genetically Danish at all.
His classes were so admired by his students that they wrote
them down – and that is partly why we know so much about his teaching
today. Bournonville also choreographed a
ballet called Konservatoriet (1849)
that is the only surviving ballet that shows ballet exercises as practiced in
the early 19th century classroom.
In 1877, he had the honor of being knighted. He died on November 30, 1879.
From the Big Blue Book of Ballet Secrets:
Secret #13:
“The Bournonville leap
was named for Danish dancer and dance teacher August Bournonville.”
Link of the Day:
Quote
of the Day:
“The good life is one inspired by love and guided by
knowledge.”
-Bertrand Russell
Help expand the knowledge base!
Leave a comment about any instructions, ideas,
or images that worked best for you!
No comments:
Post a Comment