Ballet may be known for its grace, elegance, and artistry but it’s also steeped in history. Some of the world’s most cherished ballets were created centuries ago and continue to captivate audiences around the globe. These time-honoured masterpieces have stood the test of time, thanks to their powerful storytelling, stunning music and timeless choreography. Let’s take a joyful twirl through the ten oldest ballets still performed today and discover what makes them enduring favourites for dancers and audiences alike.
1. La Sylphide (1832) Widely considered one of the first Romantic ballets, La Sylphide premiered in Paris in 1832, choreographed by Filippo Taglioni for his daughter, the legendary Marie Taglioni. The story of a Scottish farmer who falls in love with an ethereal sylph, only to lose her, introduced themes of supernatural love and unattainable desire. The ballet’s haunting beauty and dreamy aesthetic still enchant ballet lovers today, especially in the version later staged by August Bournonville in 1836, which remains a repertoire favourite.
2. Giselle (1841) Few ballets can match the emotional intensity and lyrical elegance of Giselle. First performed at the Paris Opera Ballet, this Romantic classic tells the tale of a peasant girl who dies of heartbreak and returns as a spirit to protect her lover from the vengeful Wilis. With music by Adolphe Adam and original choreography by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot, Giselle is a poignant blend of dramatic storytelling and technical beauty and it continues to move audiences nearly two centuries later.
3. Coppélia (1870) Laughter and charm define Coppélia, a light-hearted ballet with a whimsical plot. Created by Arthur Saint-Léon with music by Léo Delibes, it premiered at the Paris Opera Ballet in 1870. The story centres around a young man who becomes infatuated with a lifelike doll, much to the dismay of his spirited fiancée. Packed with lively dances and comedic moments, Coppélia remains a delightful audience favourite and a joyful staple for ballet companies.
4. Swan Lake (1877) Although it wasn’t an immediate success at its 1877 premiere in Moscow, Swan Lake eventually became one of the most beloved ballets of all time. With music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreography by Julius Reisinger (later reimagined by Petipa and Ivanov), this fairytale romance of a prince and a swan queen is packed with unforgettable imagery, dramatic tension and spellbinding music. It’s a rite of passage for many ballet dancers and a favourite for audiences worldwide.
5. The Sleeping Beauty (1890) Another glittering jewel in the classical canon, The Sleeping Beauty was choreographed by Marius Petipa to Tchaikovsky’s lush score and premiered in St. Petersburg in 1890. Based on the famous fairytale, it showcases a dazzling array of solos, group dances and pantomime, all wrapped in regal grandeur. The Rose Adagio alone is a pinnacle of ballerina technique. It continues to be a festive favourite and a showcase of classical ballet at its finest.
6. The Nutcracker (1892) A holiday tradition around the world, The Nutcracker had a more modest beginning in 1892 at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. With a magical score by Tchaikovsky and original choreography by Petipa and Lev Ivanov, the ballet tells the story of a young girl’s fantastical journey through a land of sweets. Its enchanting visuals and varied character dances make it a perfect introduction to ballet and a perennial holiday highlight.
7. Don Quixote (1869) Brimming with Spanish flair and vivacious character, Don Quixote is based on Miguel de Cervantes’ novel and was brought to the stage by Marius Petipa with music by Ludwig Minkus. Premiering in Moscow in 1869, the ballet focuses on the love story of Kitri and Basilio, with Don Quixote’s adventures adding comic relief. The ballet’s bold energy and fiery solos make it a crowd-pleaser and a favourite for dancers looking to show off their technical chops.
8. Raymonda (1898) Though it may be less well-known than other classics, Raymonda is a hidden gem in the ballet world. Choreographed by Marius Petipa with music by Alexander Glazunov, it premiered in 1898 in St. Petersburg. The ballet tells the tale of a noblewoman torn between a romantic knight and a charismatic (but dangerous) foreign suitor. Known for its intricate footwork and grand ensembles, Raymonda is a treasure trove of classical style.
9. Paquita (1846) Originally created in Paris by Joseph Mazilier, Paquita was later revived and restaged by Marius Petipa in Russia. It features a mix of Spanish flair and French elegance and is particularly famous for its Grand Pas Classique – often performed as a standalone showpiece. With its dazzling solos and ensemble precision, Paquita continues to dazzle audiences with its combination of fire and finesse.
10. Le Corsaire (1856) Adventure takes centre stage in Le Corsaire, a swashbuckling ballet filled with pirates, shipwrecks and exotic locales. Based on a poem by Lord Byron, it was choreographed by Joseph Mazilier and later revised by Petipa. With music by Adolphe Adam and additions from other composers, it’s known for its dynamic pas de deux, heroic male solos and over-the-top theatricality. It remains a thrilling ride for dancers and viewers alike.
Why These Ballets Endure What do these ballets have in common? A compelling mix of gorgeous music, emotionally rich stories and a deep well of tradition. They offer dancers the chance to explore character, artistry and pure technique, while giving audiences the beauty of seeing history come to life through movement.
How They’re Kept Alive These ballets have survived thanks to careful restagings, reconstructions and the dedication of ballet masters who pass down choreography through generations. Some have been slightly modernised, others preserved in near-original form – but all maintain their classic essence.
The Magic of Tradition In an ever-changing world, there’s something comforting about the timeless beauty of classical ballet. Watching a performance of Giselle or Swan Lake connects us to dancers and audiences from centuries past, united by a shared love for the art form. These ballets are more than relics – they are living works of art, full of heart, history and enduring grace.
So next time you go to see one of these ballets, remember – you’re witnessing a slice of ballet history, alive and well in the modern day.
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