Artigenda
World Ballet Day
When: annually, in late October or early November.
World Ballet Day is as movable as ballet itself. The date is not fixed and can vary. Sometimes the date is set for a day at the end of October, sometimes at the beginning of November. Either way, it is a day on which ballet takes centre stage worldwide.
Officially, this is a virtual event known as World Ballet Day, where it is possible to watch online performances by the Royal Ballet (United Kingdom), The Australian Ballet and the San Francisco Ballet (United States). Incidentally, the online performances are not only limited to these three companies. Via the website worldballetday.com, it is possible to view a complete overview of all registered performances around the world. It should be noted that some performances can also simply be viewed offline.
2014
The day has been around since 2014 and the first edition took place at the beginning of October. Only later, from 2019, would the day move to the end of the month.
On this day, ballet takes centre stage and the aim is to make people familiar with it and raise awareness of ballet. Where necessary, the sector could do with a bit more attention. Also, in some cases, subsidies could be looked at more closely. Some companies get something, others do not. The same could be said for sponsors.
If you want to be introduced to ballet in an approachable way, now is an excellent time. You don’t even have to go to a venue to do so, as the performances are offered online. Admittedly, that is not the same as attending a performance. Besides, by doing so, you sometimes do not support the work of the organisations. So make up your mind about that.
For those who still think there is only one kind of ballet: then this day is just for you! This is the time to get acquainted with the different types of ballet. Indeed, you quickly think of the classical form of ballet. How about neoclassical ballet, modern ballet or jazz ballet? All versatile art forms. You can talk about that. It is not a matter of ‘just’ some gestures. And no, it is certainly not always about a dying swan. These are all preconceptions. Make sure you have those dispelled on a day like today.
Different parts of the world
Since it is a global event, the opportunity exists to take advantage of it. How about different performances from different parts of the world? You’ll have to do some planning though. I’m sure that will work out!
