I have a friend who is an orthopedic surgeon. At one point he attended the injuries of both the Pittsburgh Steelers and The Pittsburgh Ballet. He said the football players wanted to be sidelined with minor injuries and were whiners whereas the ballet dancers often had serious injuries and simply wanted to be taped up sp they could continue to perform...
i know you haven’t explicitly added any value judgement to your comment, but it just makes me think that speaking up for self care and *not* just pushing through injuries is likely the healthier option. etc etc toxic productivity, internalized capitalism, etc.
What those who have never attempted ballet fail to understand is the athleticism it takes. The art of ballet is making it look effortless which is deceiving. It takes a true athlete in every sense of the word. The most beautiful "sport" in the world.
It is commonplace for football (both US and 'Soccer') players to take ballet, it is an incredible control and balance training. People expressing that it is not a masculine thing to practice ballet are sadly ignorant. I do not claim appropriate appreciation for the art of the performance, but I am amazed by the technical aspects.
Years ago, I worked as a dresser backstage in a provincial theatre. After preparing my principal ready for her next scene, a short ballet sequence with two male dancers, I witnessed the strongest, bravest act I have ever seen. As my principal was lifted onto the shoulders of the two male dancers and they were entering the stage, she accidentally kicked one of them in the groin. It was not a gentle impact. The young dancer completed the entire dance without faltering and when he finally exited the stage he collapsed and had to be carried out of the wings to his dressing room. We stood in the wings and witnessed his strength and professionalism in absolute awe. That single instance changed my perception of male dancers and I hold them in the highest esteem. I will never, ever, forget that performance, or the courage of that young dancer. Strength, dedication, grace and courage is what defines these young men. The arts and our lives would be poorer without them.
wow. It's unbelievable what people are capable of ! To sideline that intense immediate physical pain for a performance is mind-blowing. It's almost supernatural ; beyond the realm of the ordinary, for sure.
I never understood the attraction of ballet when I came upon it on television. But one day a friend dragged me along to a live ballet performance by the dance students at the nearby university. The power and intensity displayed by both the male and female dancers totally blew me away. Not to mention the beauty of the performance. I would gladly be part of the audience again.
Absolutely fabulous. And yes! We must continue to work hard to make sure "men in tights" is not longer a line that is used to ridicule anyone, but something that refers to athleticism, art and grace. AND that there is not just one way to be masculine and they are ALL OK and worth celebrating.
This male continues to show up in tights because that's the way I was taught and I don't give a shit about offended young females. Fall in line and learn! I'm straight, I dance ballet and I am straight and I am proud as hell of this.
Agreed. I don’t see male or female ballet dancers. I just see ballet dancers. Which must surely say something about gender norms breaking down in the ballet world.
It was delightful to hear that Prince George wanted to practice ballet, and that his parents support this. Ballet remains one of the greatest human achievements, a fusion of physicality and art. It's also a superb form of body conditioning and excellent for character development. Thank you for sharing this wonderful video!
I grew up watching Nureyev and Barishnikov. I am really glad male ballet dancers are getting popular again. I used to be glued to the tv when the greats of my day danced. Also, when I was growing up, football players took ballet for agility and strength.
Two decades ago I read of a US football coach that sent his team to ballet class. They couldn't make it to the end...They could not keep up with the ballet dancers, male or female for that matter. And yet the salaries given to football players are insane by comparison to the pay of the premier danseuse. Well, you can't buy joy!
@@larkatdawn the problem is that sports serve the masses whereas, erroneously, ballet is considered elitist. As someone who has no interest in sport I, obviously and strongly, disagree.
In 1964 (I was 13) my parents took me to Covent Garden to see Giselle, Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn. I was love struck! From then on for 3 years I went to Covent Garden nearly every Saturday pm after school to wait for return tickets to watch Nureyev/Fonteyn. again and again. I saw just about every classical ballet they did and several modern ones (Roland Petit (Paradise Lost) and another one who choreographed The Triumphs, I think it was Maurice Bejart). In my bedroom I had posters of Nureyev, no pop idols! Great to watch this video.
They were the very best ballet couple. Lucky you, indeed! I saw Nureyev dancing when I was seven, and now in my Sixties I'm still amazed, and grateful.
@@aureaaerea Brilliant but not even close to Vasiliev! 😉 And Lapauri - catching his wife, Raissa Strutchkova as she hurled herself sideways across the stage and into his arms... Walpurgisnacht.
I saw Nureyev and Fonteyn dance in New York in 1967, it was Swan Lake and I was mesmerized by every second of it. I was a sophomore in college. I had always loved ballet when I was growing up but that was the ultimate experience for me.
@@barbararussell9757 That's how I saw them as well, both Swan Lake and Romeo & Juliet. Fonteyn, simply a goddess... Ultimate indeed, have never forgotten the impact.
I was a professional ballet dancer for over 10 years. The way these men could lift me with such ease was amazing. ❤❤❤❤ I had 100% trust in these men. They are strong! Anyone who doubts them are weak and insecure. I would love to see any hater try to do what these men can do!
There is nothing as masculine as a male ballet dancer!!! I'm in absolute awe of these men for their artistry, strength, talent and perseverance! Pure magic! This was a wonderful documentary, thank you.
Anyone who takes a single adult ballet class suddenly understands the level of insane strength, agility, and artistry ballet requires. I have seen it many times. I used to bring people I was dating to a class with me just so they’d glean the tiniest bit of what ballet takes, and what it is these guys do. They were humbled even from one little beginner class. We’d watch a ballet an and theyd be absolutely astonished at the pure athleticism. I really liked that they would share the experience with their friends who had no connection to the ballet world, and the idea of male ballet dancers as feminine would in some way be dispelled.
Our son did ballet when he was 5 before kindergarten. He was expected to be tall and uncoordinated so we wanted to instill good physical coordination early on. He’s very athletic now he’s in high school. He also sang with the boys choir age 7-8 and he still loves to sing. Music and coordination seemed linked to good educational performance.
From a youth, I admired and loved ballet. My first encounter was a visit to a college in the countryside of my homeland. Many don't realize that ballet on the male part calls for strength, endurance, athleticism and mental fortitude most do not have. Hats off to those guys.
I marvel at male ballet dancers. Their athleticism, strength, stamina and fortitude is staggering. I doubt that an ordinary bloke with no fitness could last half an hour attempting ballet-they'd collapse very quickly exhausted as a lot of finesse and athletetism is required. Ordinary blokes wouldn't be so negative and sarcastic if they tried ballet! A wonderful video of male ballet. Very inspiring.😅🎉
Joseph Sissens - IMPRESSIVE INSIGHT and WISDOM, coupled with zealous fire to zap out mediocre people with their mediocre world views impinging on him. Well done. Keep it up Joseph, you rule !
Male ballet dancers have nothing to be ashamed of. I would kill to look as good as they do in a pair of tights and skimpy shirt. Discipline. Strength. Poise. These are fine attributes.
At age 45, Ed Watson gave his final performance as ROH principal in November 2021 as the lead in the Dante Project. He gave a stellar performance. As a dancer, he was not a classical powerhouse dancer, though he performed well in princely roles. But has a unique physicality and rare kinesthetic genius that is unmatched. I'm happy he and ROH choreographer Wayne McGregor found each other, as theirs has been a fortuitous partnership.
I think Valentino Zucchetti is a delightful dancer, whose grace, precision, and charm is evident in his work. I look forward to seeing his choreographed works, and hope ROH offers him more opportunities to showcase his talents.
I'm reminded of my military training back in the day, the regimentation of the training ... of course the difference is that when we completed our training life would pretty much return to an acceptable level of daily life - these dancers will be training at one level or another for their entire lives - even past their retirement. What a commitment! Respect.
Diana would have been thrilled that her grandson George wanted to dance ballet. She'd probably have taken him to class. Coordination, strength, flexibility, balance, body awareness, expression, good posture, and grace are all good in life no matter where or how you get it.
Just wonderfully produced - thank you so very much! If only these twits who think ballet is all tutu's, should be ashamed of themselves! Knowledge gentlemen, is power!!
I grew up watching Baryshnikov in the 70s and 80s. He was an international heartthrob and I had a huge crush on him. Later Peter Martins followed in his footsteps.
as a trained ballet dancer since my youth, I find it so amusing that men who study and perform ballet are derided, especially in America. Speak to dedicated athletes, almost without exception they will tell you that ballet is a rigorous athletic art form. While in high school, I was asked by the school's football coach to provide his varsity team with weekly barre training. He knew that it would help their game. And the guys, to their credit, caught on right away that these exercises were challenging and they stepped up. people who are trained in athleticism appreciate ballet. And if I may be a bit crude, male ballet dancers are, well, more effective in other areas of their lives and their partners are quite aware of that.
The US has a very insecure relationship with masculinity. Football and guns cover up being truly in touch with one’s masculinity just like expectations about makeup and long hair mask a woman’s true relationship with her femininity.
Thank you for this absolutely lovely presentation. And who can forget Baryshnikov’s dancing and jumps, my sister and mother ran into him in an elevator in NYC and couldn’t stop talking about him and his jumps. We all remember him. Amazing. And now we have young Vadim and several others, absolutely gorgeous men. 👏👏
I watched the whole video, and I have to say that I am quite intrigued with men taking initiative to fight against the stereotypes and challenges. I am really proud of them!
I am straight, I love ballet and to hell with anything else. If younger girls can't stand me in tights then that's on them. I don't give a shit. Get off the stage!
Every single muscle is honed to support the masculine body. The training is the hardest in any sport and the discipline outrageously tough. Only real men can rise above the pain and exhaustion. It’s a life style requiring 100% commitment and 100% dedication. It’s extraordinarily difficult and competitive……..you have to be mentally strong to live through the hunger and pain when you live for the ballet.
Training as the dancers do today, he would be as great a star, present day. In his day, Nureyev enlarged the scope for male dancers and created great interest, his incredible charisma, masculine physicality, his strikingly handsome face, general greatness. He had flaws, but not when he danced. Love the magnificence and perfection of The Royal Ballet. Much enjoyed, Thank You.
I met him once. I was walking through Green Park in London behind a man in shorts , I noticed his sandals. first as they had small heels,, then I took in his muscles . Huge muscles. He was walking so fast he lapped me so I sat on the bench before him. I was reading a book he was also reading. Sat next to me and gestured to the books. We sat and talked for a couple of minutes and he was funny, nteresting and it seemed to me unhappy. He got up and left after a while. Needless to say I felt the need to book a ticket to watch him dance. He was in late in his career. I watched him dance and yes he was brilliant BUT the effort of him dancing was visible and he wobbled a couple of times. He retired from regular dancing roles shortly after that and I wish I had seen him at his prime..
I'm really surprised that there was no mention of Rudolph Nureyev in this programme. I wonder why? I thought he was the huge turning point that gave a fresh image to male ballet. Muscular, sexy, passionate. Actually the guys here seem to not have a sense of history of the place they-re employed at.
I was fortunate enough to see Edward Villella (who had formerly lettered in baseball and been a championship boxer) dance with the NYC Ballet many years ago. Spectacular! I remember, too when Lynn Swann an NFL wide receiver with the Pittsburg Steelers, took ballet to help home be a better footballer. Never thought ballet for men was effeminate.
Greek Gods... so true. Ballet dancers don't skip leg day, their entire physique and carriage is amazing. My first crush on an older man was a ballet dancer, he was perfection!
Wonderful program. Male dancers deserve so much respect and I think finally they are beginning to get it. To know ballet is to know the hard work and effort that goes into the body to make it able to perform. The pain and suffering both emotional and physical takes a special kind of strength in those who dance. I take my hat off to each and every one of them, they are all stars no matter where they are in the pecking order of the company.
I am male and straight as hell and I absolutely love Ballet. I wear tights and to the girls who are half my age I say "deal with it." If you can take me on and outdance me then bring it on otherwise shut the f*ck up. I am so sick and tired of this feminine narcissism in dance.
It is ridiculous to hear “this is a job for a man in the 21st century”. It has always been a man’s job. For instance the Soviet Union brought the male performance on par with ballerinas already in the 1950s. The male dancers as “those who hold ballerinas” were no more. The Spartacus is the epitome of this.
Agree! Absolutely stunning! Amazing athleticism. What beautiful bodies these boys and men have. And the grace….love it. So gorgeous. I am so impressed. I am female and wanted to dance ballet when I was a kid, was told I was too old when I was around 8, but I always had super strong legs very agile and flexible as a young girl teen and beyond. I never cared about the looks or dress, just the music and movements. But we moved and I got no ballet classes. Instead I danced for hours in night clubs and at parties for years. And I went to medical school instead. I’m now almost 66 and still athletic. I’ve sadly injured one both of my knees, one pretty badly limiting how I can move around, but I love the gym and taking group classes. I have excellent stamina and think I could’ve been a good dancer. I certainly never, even now, get out of breath and have a resting pulse in the forties. So watching these young men brings me back to what I originally wanted to go with my knife. I think it was Swan Lake at the Royal ballet in Stockholm, Sweden that inspired me. It’s where I lived as a 6-9 year old and I didn’t care for the simplistic music of the Beatles, no I loved Tchaikovsky and Mozart etc. I still love them and many other classical,composers. Love the music! This documentary didn’t adress the music, but to me it’s paramount to express oneself with the music is such an amazing feeling. As I’m now turning 66 my ballet career would have ended likely 40 years ago or more. Perhaps not have had 3 kids. 🤷♀️
I admire his determination and acceptance instead of resignation. I'm not sure, but i would maybe be devastated and frustrated, living so close to the principals living my dream in front of me ... I would be sad. How does he make it ...
what a fabulous celebration of the wonderful atheletes and performers that these dancers are - surely there are few people more talented - combining incredible physical ability with glorious artistry and storytelling 😃
You are exactly what you are meant to be, not odd at all. That is a construct created by some people, not a human truth. I admire dancers, congratulations!
In 1979 and 1980 I had the honor and privilege toperform with tge Dutch National ballet, as a young singer, The corps needed four young, thin sopranos to mingle with the corps when they had to sing during the performance. I have never felt such joy and fulfilment since then I've never made fun if people who, to me are so obviously strong, graceful, beautiful doing their thing.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
There was an amazing program I’ve been trying to find on watching this, that had a bunch of top grade rugby players have a go at a ballet warm up and exercise class, not a dance rehearsal, just an exercise class and they came away with a huge amount of respect for dancers!
Valentino is so talented. It’s beyond wrong to see these incredible individuals in a position where they cannot realize their dreams due to the constraints of what the performance “industry” dictates.
I miss seeing Steven McRae dance, as his dancing is marked by speed, precision, and charm. I admire his work ethic and steely determination to address his untimely injuries straight on, never hesitating to get the best care for his physical and mental rehabilitation. As shown in the film, the love he has for his beautiful wife and children is a comfort and a motivator in his life.
Aren’t these men balancing on the shoulders of Edward Villella, Erik Bruhn, Peter Martins, Rudolph Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Alexander Godunov, Carlos Acosta, Roberto Bolle, Alvin Ailey, Jacques d’Amboise, Arthur Mitchell, Vladimir Vasiliev, Mikhail Fokin, Nijinsky and many, many others?
Absolutamente maravilloso y perfecto en su dirección, producción y edición, música, etc. Etc. BRAVOO!!! Un sólo alcance, si NUREYEV existiera hoy, hubiera entrenado desde los 6 años con todo el apoyo afectivo, económico y en libertad, sin q asesinos lo estuvieran acosando, les aseguro q SI sería el mejor del mundo!! Lo amaremos SIEMPRE! Muchas gracias ❤
This is Awesome ! Have always been a big fan of ballet and had mad respect for the male dancers.. had a poster of Nureyev in my room as a young girl ❤❤❤❤ i am70 😊
I was fortunate to see the Royal Danish Ballet many years ago in New York. I was blown away by the athleticism of this predominately male ballet troupe as they danced many different stories, quite a few of them military in theme and story. I have never made the slightest suggestion that they are anything but very, very manly.
Johaar Mosaval a South African ballet dancer, last performance with the Royal Ballet, as a senior principal dancer. danced the role of the Blue Bird pas a de deux with solo at age 48 in 1974. He retired from The Royal Ballet in 1975.
Wonderful video. Love watching the men-the strength, power, artistry. When they leap, it looks as if they remain in the air for a couple seconds. When I was young, I was embarrassed to watch them-but they grew on me. Didn’t know until very recently re: the need for ballet-specific supportive, protective undergarments-yet this is comparable to items worn by male athletes in many other sports.
What a great show. As a for,er professional (Female) ballet dancer, I have always admired the men and the talent, athleticism and artistry it takes to succeed in ballet. Amazing all the recent comments and that this is just showing up for me. ❤️
Loved watching this, learned a lot. I'll never be a Ballet Dancer. But have more appreciation of the hard work that goes with being a Ballet Dancer. Thanks for posting.
I enjoyed this so much, thanks to those who uploaded this video and all who participated in making it. Ballet is the hardest and most beautiful art form, all who dance are supreme athletes and artistes. HRH Catherine loves ballet as did George's beautiful Granny Diana, I hope he's still dancing and will do so for a long time!
Grace, strength, coordination, artistry, emotion, elegance and such are neither masculine nor feminine; they are human. We all exist on a spectrum, and we are each an individual mixture of qualities. Embrace who you are, what and who you love, and how you are able to contribute to society. Best wishes to all humans, and congratulations to these amazing, accomplished dancers. May these professionals be paid well and treated fairly by their companies. (Furthermore, these programs and documentaries need to give more credit to the piano accompanists.)
I am studying Art now...and Ballet dancer are my absolute favorites when it comes to Figuredrawing! They are art in Person! Flow, muscles, gesture, flow, grace...everything! Wonderful!!! And let me also say this......as a visual Artist you're supposed to study your subject very much...and at this point I am pretty much convinced that Ballet Dancers could kick open a locked Car door! They are STRONG 🤯
As a male I say "you want to take me on b*tch!" Take your chances because this fifty year old will smoke your A$$ every time! Bring it. I'm straight, a Ballet Dancer and proud as hell.
Wonderful documentary, I took ballet a short time with Maria who's family lived near Lake ERIE OHIO, I wish I could have continued....but anwayin Florida mostly since I 13 yrs. Old, life problems have led me in all kinds of different directions 😢thank you for lovely informative documentary on men doing ballet, I have fond memories of childhood doing ballet just short time, taught me to discipline myself. ❤ self care most important but so is self motivation in all things. GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF YOU IN VIDEO, GOD BLESS. DO THIS WHILE YOUR YOUNG TO THE FULLEST !!!🎉
Valentino is also the most brilliant choreographer…I watched a rehearsal clip of his ballet over and over again during lockdown. His choreography is musical and makes sense….and is simply beautiful.
The intersection of athleticism and grace is epitomized in ballet. Seeing the tremendous leaps that male dancers can do and the precision of the end of the movements....there's nothing that rivals this.
It is interesting, there were two movies about ballet in year 2000. British Bill Elliott, set in 80's, stereotyp, boys don't do ballet, (but very beautiful,) and USA Center stage, where principal is almost rockstar. Everybody who makes living dancing has my deep respect.
I didn’t know that little Prince George does Ballett. But for a Future King, this is fantastic training. He will literally on a world stage for his entire life.
❤️❤️❤️ endlich !! das war wohl höchste zeit für diese wunderbare dokumentation ! nur schade, dass menschen die immer noch mit diesen vorurteilen behaftet sind, sich die doku nicht anschauen….tänzer, immer noch und immer wieder einer der schönsten berufe überhaupt !!
Kudos to all the pianists who are unsung work horses without whom classes would not be the same.
I have a friend who is an orthopedic surgeon. At one point he attended the injuries of both the Pittsburgh Steelers and The Pittsburgh Ballet. He said the football players wanted to be sidelined with minor injuries and were whiners whereas the ballet dancers often had serious injuries and simply wanted to be taped up sp they could continue to perform...
Lol-My husband was a rugby player and he always laughed at American pro football players, because he did everything they did but without any padding.
i know you haven’t explicitly added any value judgement to your comment, but it just makes me think that speaking up for self care and *not* just pushing through injuries is likely the healthier option. etc etc toxic productivity, internalized capitalism, etc.
Who was the famous Russian ballet dancer he was the first male dancer that caught my attention. He was on many magazine covers
Barishnikov?
I think he is probably thinking of Nureyev or Nijinsky.
What those who have never attempted ballet fail to understand is the athleticism it takes. The art of ballet is making it look effortless which is deceiving. It takes a true athlete in every sense of the word. The most beautiful "sport" in the world.
Every man or wonan for that matter should hope to be that athletic. These athletes bring so much joy to the rest of us
Beautifully put.
It is commonplace for football (both US and 'Soccer') players to take ballet, it is an incredible control and balance training. People expressing that it is not a masculine thing to practice ballet are sadly ignorant. I do not claim appropriate appreciation for the art of the performance, but I am amazed by the technical aspects.
Men in tights are more than strength, more than athleticism, more than creativity, they are phenomenal.
Well said!
They are.
Years ago, I worked as a dresser backstage in a provincial theatre. After preparing my principal ready for her next scene, a short ballet sequence with two male dancers, I witnessed the strongest, bravest act I have ever seen.
As my principal was lifted onto the shoulders of the two male dancers and they were entering the stage, she accidentally kicked one of them in the groin. It was not a gentle impact. The young dancer completed the entire dance without faltering and when he finally exited the stage he collapsed and had to be carried out of the wings to his dressing room.
We stood in the wings and witnessed his strength and professionalism in absolute awe. That single instance changed my perception of male dancers and I hold them in the highest esteem.
I will never, ever, forget that performance, or the courage of that young dancer. Strength, dedication, grace and courage is what defines these young men. The arts and our lives would be poorer without them.
wow. It's unbelievable what people are capable of ! To sideline that intense immediate physical pain for a performance is mind-blowing. It's almost supernatural ; beyond the realm of the ordinary, for sure.
That is amazing and I really feel for the guy.
That was the original performance of the Nutcracker!
@@DrGarri 🤣🤣🤣 I hate to laugh at his almost unendurable pain, but: NICE one, Dr. @Garri!
@@daisymoses6812 Calm down.
Without male ballet dancers ,no ballet production would be complete. They are as essential to ballet as the air we breathe .
The algorithm showed me this even though I’m not interested in ballet, but I watched it and I support any man who wants to be a ballet dancer.
Very sweet.
@@maureenj.odonnell4438 Huzzah!?!
❤❤❤🎉❤❤❤ 😂😂😂 😅😅😅 🎉🎉🎉
🎉❤
I never understood the attraction of ballet when I came upon it on television. But one day a friend dragged me along to a live ballet performance by the dance students at the nearby university. The power and intensity displayed by both the male and female dancers totally blew me away. Not to mention the beauty of the performance. I would gladly be part of the audience again.
My husband took ballet in college. He is very manly, and very graceful. He plays tennis and baseball. Ballet gave him strength.
Lots of athletes take ballet. It strengthens muscles and improves control. Lots of benefit to this very athletic endeavour.
Flexibility, agility, body control, body awareness, and it is fun.
Never mind. Worse things happen at sea (though not many).
Sure. And in the army too
Builds stamina
Nothing is more beautiful to my eye than a male ballet dancer in flight.
Well, there are birds I suppose. They are actually in flight rather than flinging themselves around a stage and gesticulating like drag queens.
Absolutely fabulous. And yes! We must continue to work hard to make sure "men in tights" is not longer a line that is used to ridicule anyone, but something that refers to athleticism, art and grace. AND that there is not just one way to be masculine and they are ALL OK and worth celebrating.
very well said!
This male continues to show up in tights because that's the way I was taught and I don't give a shit about offended young females. Fall in line and learn! I'm straight, I dance ballet and I am straight and I am proud as hell of this.
❤❤@@gregj831
Agreed. I don’t see male or female ballet dancers. I just see ballet dancers. Which must surely say something about gender norms breaking down in the ballet world.
.mn
Glad that ballet is still alive and kicking with such inspiring dancers.
Ballet will always be alive.
Watch Kumin Kim. He is with the Mariinsky.
It was delightful to hear that Prince George wanted to practice ballet, and that his parents support this. Ballet remains one of the greatest human achievements, a fusion of physicality and art. It's also a superb form of body conditioning and excellent for character development. Thank you for sharing this wonderful video!
I grew up watching Nureyev and Barishnikov. I am really glad male ballet dancers are getting popular again. I used to be glued to the tv when the greats of my day danced. Also, when I was growing up, football players took ballet for agility and strength.
Yes, yes and yes.
Agreed! I remember watching them! Amazing then and now! ❤
Lynn Swan of the Pittsburgh Steelers studied ballet, so I heard.
Ballet dancers are the fittest of all, and graceful to boot. Glorious. Thanks heaps for sharing .
Two decades ago I read of a US football coach that sent his team to ballet class. They couldn't make it to the end...They could not keep up with the ballet dancers, male or female for that matter. And yet the salaries given to football players are insane by comparison to the pay of the premier danseuse. Well, you can't buy joy!
@@larkatdawn the problem is that sports serve the masses whereas, erroneously, ballet is considered elitist.
As someone who has no interest in sport I, obviously and strongly, disagree.
I love man-dancers. They have this mix of power and strength and a wonderful ability to stay in the air.
Yes, owls have that too except that everyone knows they're not men.
@@huolalupin6008& most birds & many insects ;)
In 1964 (I was 13) my parents took me to Covent Garden to see Giselle, Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn. I was love struck! From then on for 3 years I went to Covent Garden nearly every Saturday pm after school to wait for return tickets to watch Nureyev/Fonteyn. again and again. I saw just about every classical ballet they did and several modern ones (Roland Petit (Paradise Lost) and another one who choreographed The Triumphs, I think it was Maurice Bejart). In my bedroom I had posters of Nureyev, no pop idols! Great to watch this video.
You saw them at their peak, what a gift to yourself.
They were the very best ballet couple. Lucky you, indeed! I saw Nureyev dancing when I was seven, and now in my Sixties I'm still amazed, and grateful.
@@aureaaerea Brilliant but not even close to Vasiliev! 😉 And Lapauri - catching his wife, Raissa Strutchkova as she hurled herself sideways across the stage and into his arms... Walpurgisnacht.
I saw Nureyev and Fonteyn dance in New York in 1967, it was Swan Lake and I was mesmerized by every second of it. I was a sophomore in college. I had always loved ballet when I was growing up but that was the ultimate experience for me.
@@barbararussell9757 That's how I saw them as well, both Swan Lake and Romeo & Juliet. Fonteyn, simply a goddess... Ultimate indeed, have never forgotten the impact.
I love all the men who came out in support of prince George in times square.
LARA SPENCER should retire. ADORE the athleticism and grace of male dancers.
I was a professional ballet dancer for over 10 years. The way these men could lift me with such ease was amazing. ❤❤❤❤ I had 100% trust in these men. They are strong! Anyone who doubts them are weak and insecure. I would love to see any hater try to do what these men can do!
There is nothing as masculine as a male ballet dancer!!! I'm in absolute awe of these men for their artistry, strength, talent and perseverance! Pure magic! This was a wonderful documentary, thank you.
@@Jaepears unfortunately most men in the west don’t think so
@@chetyoubetya8565The blinkers will come off one day in the future
Anyone who takes a single adult ballet class suddenly understands the level of insane strength, agility, and artistry ballet requires. I have seen it many times. I used to bring people I was dating to a class with me just so they’d glean the tiniest bit of what ballet takes, and what it is these guys do. They were humbled even from one little beginner class. We’d watch a ballet an and theyd be absolutely astonished at the pure athleticism. I really liked that they would share the experience with their friends who had no connection to the ballet world, and the idea of male ballet dancers as feminine would in some way be dispelled.
Our son did ballet when he was 5 before kindergarten. He was expected to be tall and uncoordinated so we wanted to instill good physical coordination early on. He’s very athletic now he’s in high school. He also sang with the boys choir age 7-8 and he still loves to sing. Music and coordination seemed linked to good educational performance.
Music and coordination are also linked to personal development, focus, growth, joy and personal expression, all of which are all of great importance.
sounds like you did good as parents!
From a youth, I admired and loved ballet. My first encounter was a visit to a college in the countryside of my homeland. Many don't realize that ballet on the male part calls for strength, endurance, athleticism and mental fortitude most do not have. Hats off to those guys.
I marvel at male ballet dancers.
Their athleticism, strength, stamina and fortitude is staggering.
I doubt that an ordinary bloke with no fitness could last half an hour attempting ballet-they'd collapse very quickly exhausted as a lot of finesse and athletetism is required.
Ordinary blokes wouldn't be so negative and sarcastic if they tried ballet!
A wonderful video of male ballet.
Very inspiring.😅🎉
Joseph Sissens - IMPRESSIVE INSIGHT and WISDOM, coupled with zealous fire to zap out mediocre people with their mediocre world views impinging on him. Well done. Keep it up Joseph, you rule !
Male ballet dancers have nothing to be ashamed of. I would kill to look as good as they do in a pair of tights and skimpy shirt. Discipline. Strength. Poise. These are fine attributes.
No ballet dancer is ashamed of anything.
At age 45, Ed Watson gave his final performance as ROH principal in November 2021 as the lead in the Dante Project. He gave a stellar performance. As a dancer, he was not a classical powerhouse dancer, though he performed well in princely roles. But has a unique physicality and rare kinesthetic genius that is unmatched. I'm happy he and ROH choreographer Wayne McGregor found each other, as theirs has been a fortuitous partnership.
He's a hero to those of us who are men and over 45. We still believe we can do it and only injury will stop us from our passion.
Yes, very well said. But we knew of him here state-side as well and loved him.
I think Valentino Zucchetti is a delightful dancer, whose grace, precision, and charm is evident in his work. I look forward to seeing his choreographed works, and hope ROH offers him more opportunities to showcase his talents.
Yes!
I'm reminded of my military training back in the day, the regimentation of the training ... of course the difference is that when we completed our training life would pretty much return to an acceptable level of daily life - these dancers will be training at one level or another for their entire lives - even past their retirement. What a commitment! Respect.
Male ballet dancers are beautiful 😍 especially in their rehearsal gear.
Diana would have been thrilled that her grandson George wanted to dance ballet. She'd probably have taken him to class. Coordination, strength, flexibility, balance, body awareness, expression, good posture, and grace are all good in life no matter where or how you get it.
Discipline, you forgot discipline.
Just wonderfully produced - thank you so very much! If only these twits who think ballet is all tutu's, should be ashamed of themselves! Knowledge gentlemen, is power!!
I grew up watching Baryshnikov in the 70s and 80s. He was an international heartthrob and I had a huge crush on him. Later Peter Martins followed in his footsteps.
Ballet, when it gets in your blood never leaves. Precise movement, when accomplished, is a work of art and a gift from God
as a trained ballet dancer since my youth, I find it so amusing that men who study and perform ballet are derided, especially in America. Speak to dedicated athletes, almost without exception they will tell you that ballet is a rigorous athletic art form. While in high school, I was asked by the school's football coach to provide his varsity team with weekly barre training. He knew that it would help their game. And the guys, to their credit, caught on right away that these exercises were challenging and they stepped up. people who are trained in athleticism appreciate ballet. And if I may be a bit crude, male ballet dancers are, well, more effective in other areas of their lives and their partners are quite aware of that.
The US has a very insecure relationship with masculinity. Football and guns cover up being truly in touch with one’s masculinity just like expectations about makeup and long hair mask a woman’s true relationship with her femininity.
Amen!
The strongest athletes are really ballett dancers. I truly believe that even their toes are muscled.
I believe Lynn Swann of the Pittsburgh Steelers studied ballet while playing for the Steelers, to help his balance.
Athletes❤
Thank you for this absolutely lovely presentation. And who can forget Baryshnikov’s dancing and jumps, my sister and mother ran into him in an elevator in NYC and couldn’t stop talking about him and his jumps. We all remember him. Amazing. And now we have young Vadim and several others, absolutely gorgeous men. 👏👏
The Algobots are doing well for me lately and I thank them. This was pure joy.
Wonderfully informative and entertaining. More of this sort of documentaries please.
A beautiful video, thank you. Men in ballet really do need to be in the spotlight more.
I watched the whole video, and I have to say that I am quite intrigued with men taking initiative to fight against the stereotypes and challenges. I am really proud of them!
I am straight, I love ballet and to hell with anything else. If younger girls can't stand me in tights then that's on them. I don't give a shit. Get off the stage!
I think of grace, movement, making the impossible, possible. Awe inspiring. I married a ballet dancer!
Every single muscle is honed to support the masculine body. The training is the hardest in any sport and the discipline outrageously tough. Only real men can rise above the pain and exhaustion. It’s a life style requiring 100% commitment and 100% dedication. It’s extraordinarily difficult and competitive……..you have to be mentally strong to live through the hunger and pain when you live for the ballet.
Training as the dancers do today, he would be as great a star, present day. In his day, Nureyev enlarged the scope for male dancers and created great interest, his incredible charisma, masculine physicality, his strikingly handsome face, general greatness. He had flaws, but not when he danced. Love the magnificence and perfection of The Royal Ballet. Much enjoyed, Thank You.
I met him once. I was walking through Green Park in London behind a man in shorts , I noticed his sandals. first as they had small heels,, then I took in his muscles . Huge muscles. He was walking so fast he lapped me so I sat on the bench before him. I was reading a book he was also reading. Sat next to me and gestured to the books. We sat and talked for a couple of minutes and he was funny, nteresting and it seemed to me unhappy. He got up and left after a while. Needless to say I felt the need to book a ticket to watch him dance. He was in late in his career. I watched him dance and yes he was brilliant BUT the effort of him dancing was visible and he wobbled a couple of times. He retired from regular dancing roles shortly after that and I wish I had seen him at his prime..
@@dianeshelton9592 You were quite blessed to have seen him at all. He had AIDs as you probably now, RIP.
@@larkatdawn I was , extremely privileged to meet and see him. I just wish I had seen him in his prime. 😀
Tremendous charisma too
I think the stigma started to fade with Mikhail Baryshnikov. He was astounding!
Yes! And how great it is that there is so much of his work available on TH-cam.
Baryshnikov was amazing and he loved the women which helped change the idea that all male dancers were gay.
I'm really surprised that there was no mention of Rudolph Nureyev in this programme. I wonder why? I thought he was the huge turning point that gave a fresh image to male ballet. Muscular, sexy, passionate. Actually the guys here seem to not have a sense of history of the place they-re employed at.
Do you know about Najinsky?
Amyway, Nureyev is mentioned , seen and he speaks.
I was fortunate enough to see Edward Villella (who had formerly lettered in baseball and been a championship boxer) dance with the NYC Ballet many years ago. Spectacular! I remember, too when Lynn Swann an NFL wide receiver with the Pittsburg Steelers, took ballet to help home be a better footballer. Never thought ballet for men was effeminate.
Male dancers are stunning, I was always a big fan of Baryshnikov.
Big time !!! 😀
Me too and Rudolph Nuryeve. sp.
Who wasn’t?
@@stalagnightI totally agree.i was fortunate to see them live .fantasti
@@stalagnightand yet you don’t know how to write his name..
I love ballet, always have. I love watching it. The men are stunning to watch. So athletic and strong.
Women adore male ballet dancers. The physique and passion are incredible.
Greek Gods... so true. Ballet dancers don't skip leg day, their entire physique and carriage is amazing. My first crush on an older man was a ballet dancer, he was perfection!
Bet you didn't get very far with him though, did you? Here's a tip for next time. They love afternoon tea off fine china and the scent of lavender.
What they do is amazing. I am deeply impressed by anyone who can train their body to do such incredible acts of strength and beauty.
The most brilliant video on ballet and its dances ………with their own feelings……. Bravo 💕💕💕💕
Wonderful program. Male dancers deserve so much respect and I think finally they are beginning to get it. To know ballet is to know the hard work and effort that goes into the body to make it able to perform. The pain and suffering both emotional and physical takes a special kind of strength in those who dance. I take my hat off to each and every one of them, they are all stars no matter where they are in the pecking order of the company.
I am male and straight as hell and I absolutely love Ballet. I wear tights and to the girls who are half my age I say "deal with it." If you can take me on and outdance me then bring it on otherwise shut the f*ck up. I am so sick and tired of this feminine narcissism in dance.
It is ridiculous to hear “this is a job for a man in the 21st century”. It has always been a man’s job. For instance the Soviet Union brought the male performance on par with ballerinas already in the 1950s. The male dancers as “those who hold ballerinas” were no more. The Spartacus is the epitome of this.
Agree! Absolutely stunning! Amazing athleticism. What beautiful bodies these boys and men have. And the grace….love it. So gorgeous. I am so impressed. I am female and wanted to dance ballet when I was a kid, was told I was too old when I was around 8, but I always had super strong legs very agile and flexible as a young girl teen and beyond. I never cared about the looks or dress, just the music and movements. But we moved and I got no ballet classes. Instead I danced for hours in night clubs and at parties for years. And I went to medical school instead. I’m now almost 66 and still athletic. I’ve sadly injured one both of my knees, one pretty badly limiting how I can move around, but I love the gym and taking group classes. I have excellent stamina and think I could’ve been a good dancer. I certainly never, even now, get out of breath and have a resting pulse in the forties. So watching these young men brings me back to what I originally wanted to go with my knife. I think it was Swan Lake at the Royal ballet in Stockholm, Sweden that inspired me. It’s where I lived as a 6-9 year old and I didn’t care for the simplistic music of the Beatles, no I loved Tchaikovsky and Mozart etc. I still love them and many other classical,composers.
Love the music! This documentary didn’t adress the music, but to me it’s paramount to express oneself with the music is such an amazing feeling. As I’m now turning 66 my ballet career would have ended likely 40 years ago or more. Perhaps not have had 3 kids. 🤷♀️
Fantastic production ... thank you so very much
This was beautiful!
Ballet is super cool! ✨💫🌟⭐️
Valentino has produced some wonderful choreography already, so expressive of the music. Hope he is given more scope in the future ,
I admire his determination and acceptance instead of resignation. I'm not sure, but i would maybe be devastated and frustrated, living so close to the principals living my dream in front of me ... I would be sad.
How does he make it ...
Being a male ballet dancer takes enormous strength. Very athletic!!
Fantastic program. I'm constantly impressed by the male dancers when I attend the ballet, and marvel at thier strength and agility. Wow.
Excellent look inside the world of young men in the Royal Ballet today.
A lovely film, talented, hard-working young men! ❤
what a fabulous celebration of the wonderful atheletes and performers that these dancers are - surely there are few people more talented - combining incredible physical ability with glorious artistry and storytelling 😃
I love how well spoken everyone is. I'm a ballet dancer but my father was a football player & loved sports. I was also the odd one out in my family.
You are exactly what you are meant to be, not odd at all. That is a construct created by some people, not a human truth. I admire dancers, congratulations!
What does being well spoken have to do with anything?
In 1979 and 1980 I had the honor and privilege toperform with tge Dutch National ballet, as a young singer, The corps needed four young, thin sopranos to mingle with the corps when they had to sing during the performance. I have never felt such joy and fulfilment since then I've never made fun if people who, to me are so obviously strong, graceful, beautiful doing their thing.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
There was an amazing program I’ve been trying to find on watching this, that had a bunch of top grade rugby players have a go at a ballet warm up and exercise class, not a dance rehearsal, just an exercise class and they came away with a huge amount of respect for dancers!
There was a scene in Fame where the New York Giants came to the school to exercise with the ballet dancers
Valentino is so talented.
It’s beyond wrong to see these incredible individuals in a position where they cannot realize their dreams due to the constraints of what the performance “industry” dictates.
I miss seeing Steven McRae dance, as his dancing is marked by speed, precision, and charm. I admire his work ethic and steely determination to address his untimely injuries straight on, never hesitating to get the best care for his physical and mental rehabilitation. As shown in the film, the love he has for his beautiful wife and children is a comfort and a motivator in his life.
He's now back performing at the Royal Opera House - he was incredible in Swan Lake this week
Love him. 🇦🇺
Steven McRae is an Alpha Male dancer! He’s a fantastic beast!
Aren’t these men balancing on the shoulders of Edward Villella, Erik Bruhn, Peter Martins, Rudolph Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Alexander Godunov, Carlos Acosta, Roberto Bolle, Alvin Ailey, Jacques d’Amboise, Arthur Mitchell, Vladimir Vasiliev, Mikhail Fokin, Nijinsky and many, many others?
@@timothysmith7888: What is past, is prologue. Always.
Absolutamente maravilloso y perfecto en su dirección, producción y edición, música, etc. Etc. BRAVOO!!!
Un sólo alcance, si NUREYEV existiera hoy, hubiera entrenado desde los 6 años con todo el apoyo afectivo, económico y en libertad, sin q asesinos lo estuvieran acosando, les aseguro q SI sería el mejor del mundo!! Lo amaremos SIEMPRE!
Muchas gracias ❤
It is so amazing what these guys can do with their bodies!!!!!!! What a treat to watch them practice,,,
This is Awesome ! Have always been a big fan of ballet and had mad respect for the male dancers.. had a poster of Nureyev in my room as a young girl ❤❤❤❤ i am70 😊
What wonderful men......in so many ways.😊
I was fortunate to see the Royal Danish Ballet many years ago in New York. I was blown away by the athleticism of this predominately male ballet troupe as they danced many different stories, quite a few of them military in theme and story. I have never made the slightest suggestion that they are anything but very, very manly.
Johaar Mosaval a South African ballet dancer, last performance with the Royal Ballet, as a senior principal dancer. danced the role of the Blue Bird pas a de deux with solo at age 48 in 1974. He retired from The Royal Ballet in 1975.
This is the time for the Male Ballet Dancer, he is the Star coming from behind the Ballerina to the fore. Dancer Noble.
Ballet as male is wonderful , strong talented, impressive. I was biggest fan of male dancers !! We would so miss them.
The “Blue Bird of Paradise”…. You are amazing..
She owes an apology to Prince George as well. Bullying a child is worse than vile.
screw you
ABSOBLOODYLUTELY! 💯 she owes the lad.. his mum and dad.. our future King and Queen a massive apology! What a stupid bloody thing to say!
i doubt the kid even knows that this whole debacle even existed.
Dont bully someone who has. Learned and apologized, seriously!
@@pammaggio8135oh stop..she knows she made a mistake
Wonderful video. Love watching the men-the strength, power, artistry. When they leap, it looks as if they remain in the air for a couple seconds. When I was young, I was embarrassed to watch them-but they grew on me. Didn’t know until very recently re: the need for ballet-specific supportive, protective undergarments-yet this is comparable to items worn by male athletes in many other sports.
fantastic dancers and actors, thank you for the emotions you gave me, best wishes from LITHUANIA
What a great show. As a for,er professional (Female) ballet dancer, I have always admired the men and the talent, athleticism and artistry it takes to succeed in ballet. Amazing all the recent comments and that this is just showing up for me. ❤️
Beautiful, simply beautiful, ballet dancing men 😍
Loved watching this, learned a lot. I'll never be a Ballet Dancer. But have more appreciation of the hard work that goes with being a Ballet Dancer. Thanks for posting.
These dancers are superb elite athletes. 💚
I enjoyed this so much, thanks to those who uploaded this video and all who participated in making it. Ballet is the hardest and most beautiful art form, all who dance are supreme athletes and artistes. HRH Catherine loves ballet as did George's beautiful Granny Diana, I hope he's still dancing and will do so for a long time!
Obviously the men have great bodies and they are very athletic and this profession takes such discipline.
Their athleticism is absolutely amazing.
Grace, strength, coordination, artistry, emotion, elegance and such are neither masculine nor feminine; they are human. We all exist on a spectrum, and we are each an individual mixture of qualities. Embrace who you are, what and who you love, and how you are able to contribute to society. Best wishes to all humans, and congratulations to these amazing, accomplished dancers. May these professionals be paid well and treated fairly by their companies. (Furthermore, these programs and documentaries need to give more credit to the piano accompanists.)
I am studying Art now...and Ballet dancer are my absolute favorites when it comes to Figuredrawing!
They are art in Person! Flow, muscles, gesture, flow, grace...everything!
Wonderful!!!
And let me also say this......as a visual Artist you're supposed to study your subject very much...and at this point I am pretty much convinced that Ballet Dancers could kick open a locked Car door!
They are STRONG 🤯
thank you very much for sharing it! I certainly love those men on tights. They all have my respect and admiration.
As a male I say "you want to take me on b*tch!" Take your chances because this fifty year old will smoke your A$$ every time! Bring it. I'm straight, a Ballet Dancer and proud as hell.
Wonderful documentary, I took ballet a short time with Maria who's family lived near Lake ERIE OHIO, I wish I could have continued....but anwayin Florida mostly since I 13 yrs. Old, life problems have led me in all kinds of different directions 😢thank you for lovely informative documentary on men doing ballet, I have fond memories of childhood doing ballet just short time, taught me to discipline myself. ❤ self care most important but so is self motivation in all things. GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF YOU IN VIDEO, GOD BLESS. DO THIS WHILE YOUR YOUNG TO THE FULLEST !!!🎉
Valentino is also the most brilliant choreographer…I watched a rehearsal clip of his ballet over and over again during lockdown. His choreography is musical and makes sense….and is simply beautiful.
The intersection of athleticism and grace is epitomized in ballet. Seeing the tremendous leaps that male dancers can do and the precision of the end of the movements....there's nothing that rivals this.
It is interesting, there were two movies about ballet in year 2000. British Bill Elliott, set in 80's, stereotyp, boys don't do ballet, (but very beautiful,) and USA Center stage, where principal is almost rockstar. Everybody who makes living dancing has my deep respect.
Beautiful documentary!
Thanks very much for this beautiful documentary about unsung heroes who deserve all the praise. Such beauty!
I didn’t know that little Prince George does Ballett. But for a Future King, this is fantastic training. He will literally on a world stage for his entire life.
Strong,well honed muscle.
Brilliant.....aesthetically beautiful.
❤️❤️❤️ endlich !! das war wohl höchste zeit für diese wunderbare dokumentation ! nur schade, dass menschen die immer noch mit diesen vorurteilen behaftet sind, sich die doku nicht anschauen….tänzer, immer noch und immer wieder einer der schönsten berufe überhaupt !!
Indeed
Indeed 🎉
Oopsie!?!
Great Documentary ❤ much respect for the male dancers 🔥
Powerful Documentary
Thank You 😊
I hope Ms Spencer and her ABC cronies watch this. Such class. 🙄 😠
These boys and men are amazing. Watching a male dancer leaves me in awe. Amazing!!
A fantastic,eye opening report🙏👏