Question

Have you ever heard of ballet (芭蕾)? Are you interested in ballet? Can you perform ballet? Since its first appearance in the 15th century in the courts (宫廷) of European royalty (王室), ballet has become one of the most loved forms of dance. One of the most beloved ballets is “Swan Lake”. First performed in Russia in 1895, it continues to draw the audience around the world today.

The word “ballet” itself is French, and comes from the Italian word ballo, meaning “a dance”. Ballet dancing, as we know it today, is a result of influence (影响) from many countries, such as Italy, France, Russia, England and America.

Ballet is always performed to music and often tells a story. Learning this style of dance is difficult, but the results on stage are magical. The graceful (优美的) moves show the body in the most beautiful manner.

1.When did ballet first appear?

It first appeared in ______.

2.Where was the ballet “Swan Lake” first performed?

It was first performed in ______.

3.What does the word “ballo” mean in Italy?

It means ______.

4.Which countries have an influence on ballet?

Lots of countries have an influence on ballet, such as ______.

5.What do you think of ballet according to the last paragraph?

It is ______ to learn ballet, but the performance is ______.

Answer 1