Definition

Noun: A comedy ballet is a theatrical dance performance that combines the formal techniques and aesthetics of classical ballet with a narrative structure emphasizing humor and comedic elements. It is a subgenre of ballet where the primary artistic goal is to amuse the audience through dance, mime, and dramatic situations, while maintaining the technical discipline of ballet.

Usage

The term is used to classify a specific type of ballet production. It describes the work's overall genre and tone. * The company's season will feature a classic comedy ballet to lighten the program. * Critics praised the choreographer's skill in blending intricate footwork with slapstick in his new comedy ballet.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• As a categorical term: The term is often used in programming, criticism, and dance history to distinguish works from tragic, dramatic, or abstract ballets.
  • Her thesis focuses on the evolution of the comedy ballet in the 20th century.

Variants and Related Words

• Comic Ballet: A direct synonym often used interchangeably with "comedy ballet."
• Ballet (n): The overarching art form.
• Farce (n): A type of comedy involving highly improbable situations and exaggerated humor; a comedy ballet may contain elements of farce.
• Pantomime (n): The art of conveying a story through bodily movement and facial expression without speech, a crucial component of narrative and comedy in ballet.

Synonyms

• Comic ballet
• Humorous ballet

Antonyms

• Tragic ballet
• Dramatic ballet

Related Phrases & Context

• In the repertoire: Often used to discuss a company's collection of performances.
  • This charming comedy ballet has been a staple in the company's repertoire for decades.
• Genre of ballet: Used to specify its classification.
  • The comedy ballet is a genre that requires dancers to be both technically proficient and gifted comedians.

Noun

1. a ballet that stresses the drama with features of comedy