# Ballet

A Brief History of Ballet

## Origins

### Renaissance – Italy and France

Ballet originated in the Renaissance court as an outgrowth of court pageantry in Italy, where aristocratic weddings were lavish celebrations.

### 17th century – France and Court Dance

Ballet developed as a performance-focused art form in France during the reign of Louis XIV, who was passionate about dance.

## Romantic movement

### Russia

While France was instrumental in early ballet, other countries and cultures soon adopted the art form, most notably Russia.