Steps of the Ballet

Synopsis

Explains the principles of ballet, and the stages involved in mounting a new work. Robert Helpmann explains how a new ballet is produced and Elaine Fifield demonstrates the position of the arms and other basic positions. Gordon Hamilton demonstrates leaps and jumps. A sequence of dancers practise at the barre and Gerd Larson performs an allegro dance to demonstrate the three basic movements of turning, jumping and darting. Andree Howard talks about the choreography with the dancers and the composer, while the set designer discusses the stage plan with the stage manager. The short ballet is danced on stage by Covent Garden Opera Sadler’s Wells Ballet. Chorography by andree Howard; music by Arthur Benjamin; played by the the Philharmonia Orchestra of London; decor and costumes by Hugh Stevenson.

Series

Instruments of the Orchestra/Steps of the Ballet

Language

English

Country

Great Britain

Medium

Video; Videocassette. VHS. b&w. 30 min.

Year of production

1948

Availability

Sale

Notes

Paired on videocassette with INSTRUMENTS OF THE ORCHESTRA.
Archive copy at Film Images.

Subjects

Dance

Keywords

ballet

Credits

Director

Muir Mathieson

Producer

Alexander Shaw

Contributor

Arthur Benjamin

Cast

Robert Helpmann

Production Company

Name

Crown Film Unit

Sponsor

Name

British Council, Press & Public Relations Department

Distributor

Name

Editions Audiovisual Beulah

Email

in@eavb.co.uk.

Web

http://www.eavb.co.uk External site opens in new window

Phone

0116 236 2901

Fax

01892 652413

Address

The Signal Box
1 Albion Street
Anstey
Leicester
LE7 7DD