: Like an opera, a narrative ballet follows a libretto that outlines the plot, characters, and emotional arcs. Famous examples include the magical journey of The Nutcracker or the tragic romance of Swan Lake .

: The technical language of ballet is almost entirely in French , tracing back to its origins in the French royal courts. Common terms include: Plié : To bend (the knees). En Pointe : Dancing on the tips of the toes.

: Dancers use codified hand gestures to communicate specific words or feelings to the audience: Love : Hands crossed over the heart. Marriage : Pointing to the ring finger. Death : Fists clenched and crossed low. An Oath : Two fingers raised toward the sky.

: A position where one leg is extended behind the body. Common Themes in Ballet Stories