Learn from methods that shaped the careers of iconic dancers like Galina Ulanova. This book covers all the basic principles of classical ballet, making it a fundamental resource for dancers and teachers. Although the stars of Russian ballet Anna Pavlova and Tamara Karsavina possessed a national manner of dancing, there was no truly Russian school of dancing until the 1930s. The development of this school was largely due to Mme. Vaganova (1879-1951), not only a great dancer but also the teacher of Galina Ulanova and many others and an unsurpassed theoretician. Discusses all basic principles of ballet, grouping movement by fundamental types. Diagrams show clearly the exact foot, leg, arm, and body positions for the proper execution of many steps and movements. 118 illustrations. Expert Insights: Written by Mme. Vaganova, a legendary dancer and teacher, offering valuable insights from a pioneer of the Russian ballet technique, the Vaganova Method, known for its structured approach and emotional expressiveness. Structured Lessons: Provides clear, planned exercises that evolve with innovative dance practices, ensuring relevance for modern learners. Variety of Movements: Includes chapters on battements, rotary movements, poses, and more, covering various ballet techniques. Sample Lessons: Offers material for sample lessons, assisting teachers in planning effective ballet instruction. Detailed Diagrams: Features 118 illustrations, clearly demonstrating foot, leg, arm, and body positions for accurate learning. For All Levels: Suitable for dancers at different levels, from students to professional artists, enhancing their technical and expressive skills. Historical Context and Legacy of Russian Ballet: Delve into the unique evolution of Russian ballet from the 1930s onwards, combining influences from French and Italian traditions. The Basic Principles of Classical Ballet offers a fundamental theory of dance for dancers, teachers, and ballet lovers–information often difficult to locate in other books.