3 Energetic Classical Ballet Variations | Ballet Education

Are you a fan of quick movements, expressive characters, and lively music? You're sure to be inspired by some of the variations below, read on to learn more and further your ballet and fine arts education!

Canary Fairy

'The Sleeping Beauty' ballet is famous for its wide range of variations due to the Fairy characters. While short, the Canary Fairy, also referred to as the Fairy of Songbirds, is known for being most lively and spritely. For dancers who love to be en pointe (or demi pointe if using flat shoes)- this variation will be a joy to learn! Kitri

If turns and jumps are your thing, then this variation is one for you! The upbeat music helps to energize not only the dancer, but also the crowd, as it is typical for an audience to clap to the beat of this variation during the diagonal pirouette portion. The costumes also add extra flair to the performance, as props like Kitri's fan are utilized to enhance movements and showcase speed of steps. Cupid

The ballet 'Don Quixote' has a beautiful mix of both Spanish-inspired and whimsical choreography. One of the most well-known variations isn't from a main character of the ballet thought, but of a soloist role, Cupid! The Cupid variation is very vibrant and fun, with artistic direction usually calling for a sassy smile here and there throughout the routine. The costume for this variation is typically one with a short skirt as opposed to a tutu, which can help with executing faster movements.