Transformations of Sociocultural Content of Ukrainian Ballets for Children (1990s — 2010s)

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to consider the transformations of the sociocultural content of Ukrainian ballets for children of the 1990s — 2010s.Research methodology. The research methodology is based on the culturological approach. The newest methods of Ukrainian culturology are involved, in particular the method of sociocultural causality, as well as, traditional methods of art history — description, observation, systematization of facts.Results. The transformations of the sociocultural content of ballets for children in the 1990s and 2010s have fully reflected the postmodernist shifts of recent decades. The characters created by Ukrainian choreographers do not rely on their own strength, they need guidance and confidence, external support; this is how the hidden, subconscious moods of Ukrainian society in the first decade of independence were reflected in the ballets for children. In these transformations a new globalization trend can observed: in the place of ideological heroes, unbreakable and steadfast in their beliefs, the others came, those who are open to the world, ready to interact, cooperate, and accept the gifts of fate. Newly created ballets for children are characterized by the detailed development of episodes and characters, new goals and objectives, including the focus on a wide audience, relying on the well-known plots of folk and author’s tales, a variety of choreographic techniques and approaches, openness to the experiment and respect for classical heritage.Novelty. The most significant Ukrainian ballets for children of the 1990s — 2010s are covered: “Grasshopper”, “Cinderella”, “Pinocchio and the Magic Violin”, “Snow Queen”, “Little Prince”. Thus, the article has further developed the scientific interpretation of the national choreographic culture and Ballet Theater of the 20th — the early 21st century.The practical significance. Materials and conclusions of the study can be used in the practice of staging of modern choreographers and further scientific and theoretical developments in the field of culturology and art history. Some provisions can be used in educational and special courses on the history of ballet making and choreography, the history of Ukrainian culture.