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Balé, or ballet, is a formal dance discipline and performing art that uses stylized movement to express narratives or abstract ideas. It combines music, storytelling, and stagecraft, and is typically performed in a theatre with costumes, lighting, and a raised stage. Dancers train to achieve clean lines, balance, turnout, and expressive musicality.

The word balé derives from French ballet, which in turn comes from Italian balletto, from ballare meaning “to dance.” Ballet developed in the courts of Renaissance Italy and was later codified in France and Russia. In the 19th century, Russian ballet established many conventions of classical technique, including pointe work for women and large-scale narrative ballets; the 20th century brought neoclassical and contemporary approaches, notably through George Balanchine’s work in the United States.

Technique and vocabulary emphasize turnout from the hips, aligned posture, barre work, and a progression of ceaselessly refined movements. Core steps include plié, tendu, relevé, développé, pirouette, jeté, and grand jeté. Classical productions often feature corps de ballet, soloists, and principal dancers, with repertoires ranging from traditional story ballets to abstract modern works. Styles span classical, neoclassical, and contemporary forms, reflecting evolving aesthetics while preserving foundational technique.

Major companies and institutions define the art form: Paris Opera Ballet, Bolshoi Ballet, Mariinsky, Royal Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre are among the global leaders; prominent training centers include the Vaganova Academy, the Paris Opera Ballet School, and the Royal Ballet School. Balé remains a global art form with diverse regional traditions and an extensive repertoire, including Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and The Sleeping Beauty.