1.
When a ballerina dances "en pointe", what is she doing?
Correct Answer
A. Dancing On Her Toes
Explanation
The correct answer is Dancing On Her Toes. When a ballerina dances "en pointe", she is dancing on the tips of her toes. This requires immense strength and balance, as well as years of training and technique. Dancing on pointe gives the illusion of floating and adds grace and elegance to the performance.
2.
What British ballerina ended her 20-year career in ballet at the Royal Opera House in 2007?
Correct Answer
A. Darcey Bussell
Explanation
Darcey Bussell is the correct answer because she ended her 20-year career in ballet at the Royal Opera House in 2007. The other options, Suzanne Farrell, Margot Fonteyn, and Patricia McBride, do not have a connection to ending their careers at the Royal Opera House in 2007.
3.
Who wrote the music for the ballet "Coppelia"?
Correct Answer
A. Leo Delibes
Explanation
Leo Delibes wrote the music for the ballet "Coppelia".
4.
The title of which artist's painting translates as "Ballet Hall of the Opera in the Rue Peletier"?
Correct Answer
A. Edgar Degas
Explanation
The correct answer is Edgar Degas because the painting mentioned in the question, "Ballet Hall of the Opera in the Rue Peletier," is a famous work by Degas. Degas was known for his depictions of ballet dancers and scenes from the opera, so it is fitting that this painting would be attributed to him.
5.
What is the term indicating that a ballet step is to be made towards the audience?
Correct Answer
A. En Avant
Explanation
En Avant is the correct answer because it is a ballet term that means "forward" or "towards the audience." When a ballet step is to be made towards the audience, dancers are instructed to move en avant. This term is used to indicate the direction in which the step or movement should be performed, ensuring that the dancer is facing the audience and moving towards them.
6.
When ballet dancers talk of "turnout", what do they mean?
Correct Answer
C. Feet Turned Out, Away From Body
Explanation
When ballet dancers talk about "turnout," they are referring to the position of their feet. Turnout means that the dancer's feet are rotated outward and away from the body, with the heels facing each other and the toes pointing outward. This position is important in ballet as it allows for greater range of movement and flexibility in the legs and hips, enabling dancers to perform various steps and movements with grace and precision.
7.
What sport were the five ballet positions inspired by?
Correct Answer
A. Fencing
Explanation
The five ballet positions were inspired by fencing. Fencing is a sport that involves precise footwork, balance, and coordination. Similarly, ballet requires dancers to have precise foot placement, balance, and coordination. The positions in ballet, known as the five positions of the feet, were developed to provide a solid foundation for dancers and allow for graceful movement and control. The influence of fencing can be seen in the emphasis on proper alignment and the use of turned-out positions in ballet, which are similar to the en garde stance in fencing.
8.
What famous choreographer was one of the founders of the New York City Ballet?
Correct Answer
A. George Balanchine
Explanation
George Balanchine is the correct answer because he was indeed one of the founders of the New York City Ballet. He co-founded the company in 1948 along with Lincoln Kirstein. Balanchine is widely regarded as one of the most influential choreographers of the 20th century and his work with the New York City Ballet helped establish it as one of the premier ballet companies in the world.
9.
In the ballet "Giselle", what are the "wilis"?
Correct Answer
B. Ghosts
Explanation
In the ballet "Giselle," the "wilis" refer to ghosts. The wilis are supernatural spirits of young women who died before their wedding day. They are known for their ethereal beauty and haunting presence. In the ballet, they are depicted as a group of ghostly maidens who seek revenge on men by dancing them to death. The wilis play a significant role in the second act of the ballet, where their ghostly presence creates a chilling and otherworldly atmosphere.
10.
In ballet, what type of move is a "jete"?
Correct Answer
B. Jump
Explanation
A "jete" in ballet refers to a jump. It is a dynamic movement where the dancer propels themselves off the ground, extending their legs and often performing a split in mid-air. This move requires strength, control, and precision from the dancer to execute it correctly.
11.
In what venue does the New York City Ballet perform?
Correct Answer
C. Lincoln Center
Explanation
The New York City Ballet performs at Lincoln Center. Lincoln Center is a world-renowned performing arts complex located in New York City. It is home to several prestigious performing arts organizations, including the New York City Ballet. The ballet company regularly performs in one of Lincoln Center's iconic venues, such as the David H. Koch Theater.
12.
In the ballet "The Nutcracker", who or what attacks Clara and the Nutcracker?
Correct Answer
A. Mice
Explanation
In the ballet "The Nutcracker", Clara and the Nutcracker are attacked by mice. This is a pivotal scene in the story where the Mouse King and his army of mice engage in a battle with the Nutcracker and his soldiers. The mice are portrayed as the antagonists in this scene, creating tension and conflict in the ballet.
13.
Who was the principal male ballet dancer of the American Ballet Theatre from 1974 to 1979?
Correct Answer
A. Mikhail Baryshnikov
Explanation
Mikhail Baryshnikov was the principal male ballet dancer of the American Ballet Theatre from 1974 to 1979. He is a renowned Russian-American ballet dancer and choreographer. Baryshnikov's talent and skill made him one of the most celebrated and influential dancers of his generation. His tenure at the American Ballet Theatre marked a significant period in his career, where he showcased his exceptional technique, artistry, and versatility in a wide range of classical and contemporary ballet roles. Baryshnikov's contributions to the world of ballet continue to be recognized and admired.
14.
Which city's famous ballet company often performs in Lincoln Center?
Correct Answer
D. New York
Explanation
The correct answer is New York because Lincoln Center is located in New York City, and it is known for hosting various performances, including ballet. The famous ballet company that often performs there is not specified in the question.
15.
What was the birth name of prima ballerina Margot Fonteyn?
Correct Answer
B. Peggy Hookham
Explanation
Peggy Hookham was the birth name of prima ballerina Margot Fonteyn. This answer is correct because it accurately identifies the original name of the famous ballerina before she adopted her stage name.