Welcome to the Illustrated Ballet Dictionary by David King

Welcome to a unique and inspired corner of the ballet world — a beautifully hand-illustrated, thoughtfully curated, and academically grounded digital dictionary dedicated to the language of classical ballet. I’m David King, founder of A Ballet Education, The Ballet Directory, and The Ballet Clinic, and I’m proud to welcome you to this labor of love — a site that blends art, education, and tradition to support dancers, teachers, and ballet enthusiasts of all levels.

This dictionary is more than just a list of ballet terms. It is a visual journey into the vocabulary, technique, and culture of classical ballet, designed to support dancers whether they are just beginning their training or refining the final nuances of their artistry. Every illustration you see here has been drawn by me, with the intention of bringing each term to life — from the most basic positions to the most intricate Vaganova port de bras sequences.

What You’ll Find Here

This site serves as a comprehensive ballet reference tool and can be used in a variety of ways:

• Educational Resource: Whether you're a ballet student building your foundational knowledge or a teacher developing curriculum, this dictionary provides both visual and written explanations of ballet terminology. It’s an excellent supplement to traditional classroom learning and can be used alongside syllabi from Vaganova, RAD, Cecchetti, and other classical training methods.

• Technique Support: Each term includes detailed illustrations that highlight proper form, placement, and movement quality — perfect for visual learners or anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of ballet mechanics.

• Curriculum Development: For studio owners, educators, and choreographers, this site is a valuable tool to help structure lessons, reinforce terminology, and align your teaching with classical standards. Many entries are organized in a way that reflects progressive skill-building, making it easy to integrate into your own curriculum.

• Reference for Professionals: This dictionary isn’t just for beginners — professionals, pre-professionals, and seasoned educators will find it a reliable tool for reviewing vocabulary, clarifying technique, or exploring how various schools of thought (Vaganova, French, Balanchine, etc.) approach specific terms.

• Inspiration for Artists: Beyond being educational, this site is meant to inspire. The illustrations are created with a deep respect for ballet’s aesthetic — capturing the poise, fluidity, and discipline that define the art form.

Classical Roots, Modern Access

While deeply rooted in classical ballet tradition — especially the Vaganova methodology that emphasizes clarity, expressiveness, and strength — this dictionary is designed with today’s dancer in mind. Accessible online, mobile-friendly, and constantly growing, this is a living resource that evolves with the needs of the dance community.

Thank you for joining me here. I hope this site becomes a daily companion in your dance journey — one that deepens your knowledge, refines your technique, and reminds you of the beauty and rigor of classical ballet.

With dedication and artistry,
David King
Founder, Illustrator, and Ballet Educator