Appreciative Quote by Shirley MacLaine
“Ballet is the repetitive training of the body for the purpose of executing steps in traditional fashion. It is tied to and bound by the past. It is a disciplined beauty consciously preserved in the image of the old days in societies that were class-conscious and appreciative of elitist physical expertise.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Reflections on Ballet, 2015
Ballet preserves historic technique through disciplined, class‑based training, valuing tradition over innovation.
In simple terms: Ballet keeps old styles through strict training.
Respect tradition while embracing evolution.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- dance education
- historical performance
- cultural critique
- arts funding
- public perception
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does tradition shape artistic expression?
- Can discipline coexist with inclusivity?
May limit creative freedom and exclude diverse bodies.