Date of Award

8-1980

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Art

First Advisor

Dr. Wendy Cornish

Second Advisor

Dr. G. Eugene Mills

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

This thesis presents an examination of George Balanchine's choreography. The examination is directed to three principles which are discussed in relation to his choreographic works.

The thesis is composed of six chapters and a summary including an introductory chapter. The second and third chapters discuss the historical background of George Balanchine as it relates to his choreographic development. The subject of the fourth chapter is Balanchine's musicality: how it was developed and how it is exemplified in his ballets. The fifth chapter is devoted to a discussion about Balanchine's neo-classical style. The last chapter examines Balanchine's ability to elucidate the talents of his individual dancers.

The three choreographic principles discussed in the thesis will elucidate Balanchine's remarkable, creative abilities and the development of a style of choreography unique to the New York City Ballet Company as seen in the ballets he has created for it.

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