Ballet Dancers - the Graceful Mathematicians

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Ballet Dancers: The Graceful Mathematicians For centuries, audiences worldwide have been gathering in grand theatres, watching in awe of dancers and absorbing the art and beauty of their movement. Ballet is the most intricate and in depth form of dancing and has molded into the minds of many people. Ballet dancers are known for their grace and talent, but what most do not know is that Ballet dancers are also quick thinking mathematicians. There are many mathematical aspects of dance, from positions and angles, to concepts such as speed, counts and half timings. The ability of a ballet dancer is not only to dance with their body, but to train with their mind just as a great mathematician would. The key to success in the dance world is to combine one’s strength, intelligence, and heart. By doing this, one is certain to create remarkable performance. One example of the mathematics of Ballet is symmetry. A ballet dancer must always be very focused on the precise line of symmetry needed to perform adequately. This perfect symmetry is demonstrated through first position, when the dancer’s feet are turned out below them, heels touching. If one was to draw a line straight through the dancer’s body in first position, the symmetry would be nearly immaculate. Beautiful lines and curves are formed because of the mathematics of symmetry and balance. Balance is a crucial part of math and Ballet. A dancer must determine where their “center” is and how much weight they must distribute throughout the body evenly so they can balance without falling. Ballet dancers always have in mind: “Head over shoulders, shoulders over hips, hips over feet.” This is a clear outline of the distribution of weight needed to keep perfect balance and alignment. In a ponche, the dancer is extremely focused on balance. They cannot be leaning too far back in the hips, while also being certain that

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