Yes, it is generally acceptable to clap during a ballet, particularly when dancers perform something impressive or during their bows.
Understanding Ballet Etiquette for Applause
Attending a ballet is an immersive experience, and knowing when to express your appreciation enhances both your enjoyment and that of those around you. While classical music concerts often have strict rules about applause, ballet offers a bit more flexibility, rooted in a rich history of enthusiastic audiences.
When to Applaud
- For Impressive Feats: It is perfectly acceptable and even encouraged to clap when you witness a particularly challenging, beautiful, or skillfully executed movement or sequence. This could include a dancer's powerful leap, a perfectly executed series of turns (pirouettes or fouettés), a difficult lift, or an emotionally moving solo. Your applause signals appreciation for the dancers' artistry and athletic prowess.
- After Significant Solos or Pas de Deux: Often, audiences will applaud after a major solo (variation) or a pas de deux (a dance for two people), especially if it's a show-stopping moment within the act.
- At the End of Acts and the Performance: Always applaud at the conclusion of each act and, of course, at the very end of the entire performance during the curtain calls.
When to Cheer
- During Bows: Once the dancers have completed their performance and are taking their bows, it is entirely appropriate to cheer to show your enthusiastic appreciation for their hard work and dedication. This is a common way to acknowledge their efforts.
What to Avoid
- Throwing Flowers: While historically, it was a common practice for devoted fans to throw flowers onto the stage to honor their favorite performers, it is now generally requested that audiences refrain from doing so.
- Clapping During Quiet Moments: It's best to avoid clapping during very quiet or delicate musical passages, or during moments of intense dramatic stillness, as this can disrupt the flow and atmosphere of the performance.
The tradition of openly expressing admiration for the art form and specific performers stems from a long history of devoted ballet enthusiasts. This tradition encourages current audiences to show their appreciation, especially for impressive feats, and to cheer at the end during curtain calls.
