Ballet: The Definitive Illustrated Story (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781465474780)

Uncover the most mesmerizing moments in ballet history with this scintillating visual guide.

Written with ballet legend Viviana Durante, this book will introduce you to the most famous performers and enthrall you with fascinating stories.

Discover more than 70 celebrated dances, from The Nutcracker and Swan Lake to The Rite of Spring. Learn about renowned companies such as The Royal Ballet and the Bolshoi Ballet. Explore the lives of ballet dancers across the centuries, such as Margot Fonteyn, Carlos Acosta, and Darcey Bussell, and meet composers and choreographers, including the likes of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Matthew Bourne.

Tracing the history of ballet all the way from its origins at court and the first institutes to the contemporary scene, this comprehensive yet accessible volume offers an unrivaled overview of this dance form.

Rarely seen photographs covering key figures, pieces, and performances, alongside compelling facts about each dance - the sources they draw from, their production history, and their reception over time - make for a sumptuous visual treat and an essential gift for all dance and ballet enthusiasts.

Author: DK
ISBN-10: 1465474781
ISBN-13: 9781465474780
Publisher: DK Publishing (Dorling Kindersley)
Language: English
Published: 09/04/2018
Pages: 360
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 4.85lbs
Size: 12.10h x 10.20w x 1.30d

Review Citation(s):
Library Journal 10/01/2018 pg. 76
School Library Journal 11/01/2018 pg. 52
Booklist 11/01/2018 pg. 9

About the Author
Viviana Durante is considered to be one of the greatest, most dramatic ballerinas of her generation. Born in Rome, she became The Royal Ballet's youngest principal dancer at 21 and was also principal ballerina with American Ballet Theatre, Teatro alla Scala, and Japan's K-Ballet. Viviana holds a Diploma of Dance Teaching from The Royal Ballet School and a Diploma in Dance Teaching and Learning from Trinity College, London. She coaches and teaches internationally.