Top 10 Ballet Companies in the World
Art plays a significant role in culture worldwide, and ballet companies hold a special place in that history.
Many countries have their own ballet companies, and each offers something unique in terms of repertoire, style, and tradition.
However, a few stand out for their exceptional dancers.
Who knows, perhaps you might be dancing in one of these renowned companies in the future!
In this blog post, I’ll examine the top 10 ballet companies in the world and explore what makes them stand out from the rest.
WHAT MAKES A TOP BALLET COMPANY?
Choosing the top ballet companies in the world is no easy task.
A company’s reputation often plays a key role in distinguishing them, and this reputation is built on several key factors:
Top ballet companies often have a global influence, and their dancers are known for their technical proficiency, artistry, versatility, and stage presence.
Additionally, their repertoire and their ability to attract well-known choreographers and dancers also set them apart.
WHAT ARE THE TOP 10 BALLET COMPANIES IN THE WORLD?
The top 10 ballet companies in the world are:
1. THE ROYAL BALLET
The Royal Ballet, based at the Royal Opera House in London, is renowned for its elegant and refined style.
Its repertoire includes classical, romantic, and neoclassical ballets from well-known choreographers such as Sir Frederick Ashton and Sir Kenneth MacMillan, as well as contemporary works by choreographers like Wayne McGregor and Christopher Wheeldon.
With a large and diverse ensemble, The Royal Ballet combines impeccable classical technique and expressive artistry with the company’s distinctly British style.
2. MARIINSKY BALLET
The Mariinsky Ballet, based in St. Petersburg, Russia, is one of the most historic and prestigious ballet companies in the world.
Famous for its pure, traditional Russian style and dancers with clean technique and exquisite lines, the Mariinsky is revered for its mastery of the classics, as well as new works by choreographers like George Balanchine and Yuri Grigorovich.
3. PARIS OPERA BALLET
The Paris Opera Ballet, founded in 1669, is the oldest ballet company in the world known for its precision, elegance, and distinctive French style.
Most dancers come through the ranks of its prestigious school, the Paris Opera Ballet School.
Famous for its highly disciplined approach to ballet, the company performs a wide range of repertoire, from French classics to modern works by choreographers such as Rudolf Nureyev, Pina Bausch, and contemporary creators like Crystal Pite.
4. AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE
American Ballet Theatre, based in New York City, is one of the leading ballet companies in the United States, celebrated for its diverse repertoire.
It performs classical masterpieces alongside modern works by renowned choreographers like Alexei Ratmansky and Jerome Robbins.
By collaborating with contemporary choreographers and commissioning new pieces, the company remains dynamic, versatile, and relevant, appealing to a broad and varied audience.
5. BOLSHOI BALLET
The Bolshoi Ballet, based in Moscow, is one of the most famous and influential ballet companies in the world.
Known for its grand, dramatic style and powerful performances, the Bolshoi is renowned for its bold interpretations of classic works and its strong emphasis on storytelling and theatricality.
Their dancers typically have dynamic stage presence and dramatic flair.
6. THE NATIONAL BALLET OF CANADA
The National Ballet of Canada, based in Toronto, is one of the leading ballet companies in North America.
With a repertoire that includes classical ballets, as well as contemporary works by top choreographers like Crystal Pite and John Neumeier, the company strikes a balance between tradition and innovation.
Dancers at the National Ballet of Canada are celebrated for their fluidity, expressiveness, and adaptability, bringing a fresh and modern approach to the dance world.
7. DUTCH NATIONAL BALLET
Dutch National Ballet, based in Amsterdam, is a premier ballet company that beautifully blends innovation with tradition.
Known for its commitment to pushing the boundaries of ballet while preserving its classical roots, the company features a very diverse repertoire.
This ranges from the timeless classics to modern creations by renowned contemporary choreographers such as Hans van Manen and Wayne McGregor.
The dancers of Dutch National Ballet are highly versatile, with a focus on both technique and artistry, making them adaptable to a wide range of styles.
8. THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET
The Australian Ballet, based in Melbourne, is one of the leading ballet companies in the Southern Hemisphere.
With a strong classical foundation, the company performs a diverse repertoire that includes iconic ballets alongside contemporary works by cutting-edge choreographers such as Wayne McGregor and Graeme Murphy.
The Australian Ballet is celebrated for its unique Australian style, which is athletic, authentic, bold and expansive, touring extensively both across Australia and internationally.
It’s also widely renowned for its leading health and injury prevention program, which is one of the most advanced in the ballet world.
9. NEW YORK CITY BALLET
New York City Ballet, located in New York City, is renowned for its innovative, fast-paced, and modern approach to ballet.
Strongly shaped by the choreography of its founder, George Balanchine, the company is known for its emphasis on precision and musicality, prioritising clean lines and speed over the traditional storytelling often seen in classical ballet.
The dancers are well known for their athleticism, agility, and ability to perform intricate footwork at high speeds, appealing to audiences who admire the technical and abstract aspects of the art form.
10. SAN FRANCISCO BALLET
San Francisco Ballet, based in California, is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet companies in the United States.
Known for its innovation and artistic quality, its repertoire spans from classical ballets to cutting-edge contemporary works.
The company frequently commissions new pieces from acclaimed choreographers like Christopher Wheeldon and Alexei Ratmansky.
The company’s dancers are known for their versatility, technical strength, and dramatic artistry, attracting audiences who enjoy both traditional ballets and more experimental performances.
HONOURABLE MENTIONS
These three companies also deserve special recognition for what they bring to the ballet world.
1. NORTHERN BALLET
Northern Ballet, based in Leeds, is renowned as one of the world’s leading narrative classical ballet companies, blending theatrical storytelling with strong technique and live music.
Known for telling unexpected and compelling stories, Northern Ballet brings its art not only to theatres across the UK but also to online platforms.
As a result of this approach, their ballet performances have become more accessible to a wider audience.
I recall watching ‘Madame Butterfly’ years ago and was captivated by the choreography and the dancers’ ability to convey the story so vividly through their expressions and movement.
It was a mix of dance and storytelling at its best.
2. VIENNA STATE BALLET
Vienna State Ballet, housed at the Wiener Staatsoper and the Volksoper, is one of Europe’s most renowned ballet companies.
It’s celebrated for its elegant and sophisticated performances.
The company excels in a wide range of styles, from grand classical ballets to American neo-classical works and contemporary dance.
The dancers, with their precise classical technique, skillfully blend ballet with a modern, forward-thinking approach, always leave audiences wanting more.
3. HOUSTON BALLET
Houston Ballet, based in Texas, is one of the largest and most respected ballet companies in the United States.
The Houston Ballet is known for its diverse repertoire, performing a mix of classical ballets and contemporary works by renowned choreographers such as Stanton Welch.
The company is celebrated for its dynamic, technically strong dancers who possess both clean classical technique and modern versatility.
TOP 10 BALLET COMPANY FAQS
WHAT IS THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS BALLET COMPANY IN THE WORLD?
The most prestigious ballet companies are The Royal Ballet, Mariinsky Ballet, and Paris Opera Ballet.
However, determining this can be quite subjective, as it often depends on your individual preferences and what you value in a ballet company.
Each of these companies has its unique strengths, setting them apart in different ways.
They are distinguished by their historical influence, diverse repertoire, remarkable dancers, and overall artistic impact on the dance world.
WHICH BALLET COMPANY IS THE OLDEST IN THE WORLD?
The oldest ballet company in the world is the Paris Opera Ballet, founded in 1669 by King Louis XIV.
HOW COMPETITIVE IS IT TO JOIN ONE OF THE WORLD’S BEST BALLET COMPANIES?
Joining one of the world’s top ballet companies is highly competitive.
To be considered, your technical skill, artistry, and physique must be exceptional.
These companies often look for dancers with outstanding technique but also the ability to embody their specific style and repertoire with very particular requirements.
If joining one of these top companies is your dream, pursue it with determination and passion.
But keep in mind that there are other esteemed ballet companies around the world where you can achieve success in your dance career.
WHAT COUNTRY IS BEST AT BALLET?
Each country brings its unique strengths and traditions to the world of ballet.
The beauty of dance lies in its diversity and the different styles and techniques that various countries contribute.
Just because you are born in one country doesn’t mean you don’t have the chance to dance and make your mark around the world.
HOW LONG IS A TYPICAL SEASON FOR A BALLET COMPANY?
A typical season for a ballet company usually lasts about 8 to 10 months, though this can vary depending on the company and its schedule.
After the season concludes, dancers usually have an off season, allowing time for rest, recovery, and preparation for the upcoming season.
HOW MANY DANCERS ARE TYPICALLY IN A BALLET COMPANY?
The number of dancers in a ballet company can vary widely depending on the size and prominence of the company.
Typically,
The size of the company impacts the scale of its productions, its repertoire, and opportunities for dancers in terms of roles and moving up the company hierarchy.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY BALLET COMPANIES?
The two main differences between classical and contemporary ballet companies are their dancers and their repertoire.
While contemporary dancers are often trained in classical ballet, their repertoire tends to be more grounded, experimental, modern, and abstract compared to classical ballet companies.
Classical ballet focuses on traditional, narrative works, demanding a high level of technique, refined lines, and a precise aesthetic.
In contrast, contemporary ballet dancers explore freedom of movement and uniqueness, often prioritising innovation and personal expression over the strict and clean classical technique.
DO TOP BALLET COMPANIES TOUR INTERNATIONALLY?
Top ballet companies tour internationally to showcase their artistry, reach new audiences, and gain world acclaim.
It’s a valuable opportunity for exposure, benefiting not only the company but also its dancers and choreographers.
However, touring comes with significant costs. While major companies might tour every few years, others may not have the budget to do so as often.
ARE THERE NOTABLE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN BALLET COMPANIES?
Yes, there are distinct differences between European and American ballet companies, particularly in their dance styles, due to different training methods and artistic traditions.
On the one hand, European companies often emphasise the Vaganova, French, and Russian schools of ballet.
Whereas American companies, shaped by choreographers like George Balanchine, focus more on athleticism, speed, energy, and dynamic movement.
DO ALL TOP BALLET COMPANIES HAVE THEIR OWN SCHOOLS?
Most top ballet companies have their own affiliated schools or training programs.
This does give young dancers the possibilities to dance with the company and even join the company after graduation due to the similar style and nature of the training.
It is not uncommon that these companies will take dancers from their schools first before auditioning others.
This is generally because students from their schools are well-versed in the company’s specific style and traditions.
WHAT IS THE HIGHEST-PAYING BALLET COMPANY?
The highest-paying ballet companies are often those with large budgets and prestigious reputations. These include:
These companies tend to offer higher salaries, especially for principal dancers, who are the top-ranking performers within a company.
In addition to their regular salaries, many principal and soloist dancers can guest with other companies or participate in international galas.
This is where they receive substantial compensation, sometimes more than their normal company salary!
WRAP UP
From the historic stages of Europe to the innovative companies of North America and beyond, these top 10 ballet companies offer distinctive flair and exceptional artistry.
Their diverse styles and innovative approaches keep the art form fresh and inspiring, pushing the boundaries of what ballet can be.
Whether you’re in the audience or admiring from afar, these companies are at the forefront of ballet, constantly redefining and enriching our world of dance for the better.
