Absorption and embedding: on the application of the ballet training paradigm in Chinese ethnic dance curriculum

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article discusses the necessity and possibilities of introducing ballet training into the process of teaching Chinese ethnic dance from theoretical and practical perspectives involving pedagogical analysis. We propose that there is a homologous and complementary relationship between ballet and Chinese ethnic dance in philosophy, aesthetic and technical goals, and desired outcomes. At the practical level, ballet, as a relatively mature, complete, and systematic dance training paradigm, plays and can further play a positive role in the traditional paradigm for teaching Chinese ethnic dance. The paper proposes several possible ways of the ‘absorption’ and ‘embedding’ of ballet training into the basic training of Chinese ethnic dance, which includes strengthening basic training in an appropriate manner. These combinations enhance dancers’ physical coordination ability and technical skills, and they instill artistic values.