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02.02.2025

Ballet: A gentleman’s guide to understanding and enjoying the art form

Ballet isn't just for the artsy crowd—a true gentleman understands its elegance, beauty, and cultural significance. Learn the history, key performances, etiquette, and why ballet deserves a place in a refined man's repertoire.

Words: Raja Izz

John Wick: Chapter 4.

Niko Tavernise/Lionsgate

 

Let’s address the elephant in the opera house—ballet might not be the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of a modern gentleman’s pastimes. Polo? Certainly. Chess? Naturally. Tailored suits? Of course. But ballet? That’s for the artsy crowd, right? Wrong.

A true gentleman understands that culture is as essential to his repertoire as a well-cut tuxedo.

So, if you’ve ever found yourself at a ballet performance feeling like an imposter in a sea of tulle and pirouettes, fear not. Consider this your primer to understanding, appreciating, and—dare we say—enjoying ballet like a refined connoisseur.

A Brief History: More Than Just Fancy Footwork

Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake.

Jack Vartoogian/Getty Images


Ballet’s origins trace back to 15th-century Italy, where it began as an extravagant form of entertainment for the noble courts. The French took it to another level under King Louis XIV, who, being the ultimate showman, established the first professional ballet school in 1661. Since then, ballet has evolved into a global art form that combines athleticism, storytelling, and sheer visual poetry.

Today, it remains a symbol of grace, discipline, and—let’s be honest—unparalleled physical strength. If you think a plié is just bending your knees, try holding a squat for five minutes while looking elegant.

The Must-Know Performances: Impress with Your Knowledge

‘The Nutcracker’ Ballet

Photo: Getty Images

 

Every gentleman should have a few classic ballets up his sleeve, ready to name-drop in conversation over a post-performance coffee. Here are three masterpieces to start with:

  • Swan Lake (Tchaikovsky): A tragic love story featuring enchanted swans, a duplicitous sorcerer, and a hauntingly beautiful score. Also, an excellent metaphor for relationships—sometimes, things aren’t what they seem.

  • The Nutcracker (Tchaikovsky): A holiday staple featuring toy soldiers, dancing sweets, and a giant, slightly terrifying mouse king. It’s festive, it’s whimsical, and it’s the one ballet even non-ballet-goers have heard of.

  • Romeo and Juliet (Prokofiev): Shakespeare’s timeless tale of love and tragedy, expressed through breathtaking pas de deux (partner dances). Expect sword fights, stunning lifts, and a fair amount of dramatic death scenes.

Attending a Ballet: A Gentleman’s Etiquette Guide

Much like a black-tie gala or a Michelin-starred restaurant, the ballet has its own set of unspoken rules. Follow these, and you’ll seamlessly blend into the cultured crowd:

Dress the Part – The ballet is no place for sneakers and distressed jeans. Channel your inner prince—think well-tailored suits, polished leather shoes, and a pocket square for good measure.

Arrive on Time – Unlike a casual movie night, strolling in late to a ballet is a cardinal sin. Not only will you disrupt the performance, but you’ll also endure the silent judgment of seasoned patrons.

Applaud at the Right Time – Resist the urge to clap mid-performance, no matter how impressive the dancer’s leap was. Hold your applause for the grand finale or, in some cases, an exceptional solo.

Silence Your Devices – There’s no quicker way to earn the ire of an entire audience than letting your phone ring during a delicate pas de deux. And under no circumstances should you attempt to take flash photos—unless you enjoy being publicly shamed.

Why a Gentleman Should Appreciate Ballet

Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake. Photo credit: Getty Images

 

Aside from the sheer elegance of the art form, there are plenty of reasons why ballet deserves a place in a gentleman’s world:

  • It’s a Masterclass in Discipline – Ballet dancers train for years to perfect their craft. Watching them perform is a reminder that true excellence requires dedication—a principle every gentleman can respect.

  • It’s an Intellectual Conversation Starter – Discussing ballet at a dinner party is infinitely more refined than debating the latest cryptocurrency trend. A well-placed remark about Margot Fonteyn’s legendary performances will always earn nods of approval.

  • It Enhances Your Cultural IQ – A well-rounded gentleman appreciates both the finer things and the classics. Knowing your Giselle from your Don Quixote is as essential as knowing your Bordeaux from your Burgundy.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Art

A gentleman does not shy away from high culture—he embraces it. Ballet is an art form that requires strength, grace, and an appreciation for beauty, much like the ideals of gentlemanly living. So the next time you receive an invitation to the ballet, accept it with enthusiasm. Who knows? You might just find yourself captivated by the poetry of movement, the power of storytelling, and the elegance of a world that values grace above all else.

And if nothing else, at least you’ll look damn good in that tuxedo.

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