The art of classical ballet is one that gracefully combines technique and artistry in order to tell a story and captivate an audience through the beauty of movement. Emotional expression and physical athleticism go hand in hand as the virtues of a ballerina—namely discipline, patience, perseverance, and imagination—are cultivated. With origins in the royal courts of the Italian Renaissance, ballet is distinct from all other styles of dance and therefore challenges the student to develop and maintain the elegance, grace, and precision that so characterize the discipline. French terminology and classical music accompany the dancer, further emphasizing the importance of its historical context in creating a unique and inspiring experience for dancer and audience member alike.