Is Ballet a Lost Art in the Age of Artificial Intelligence?
Let’s be honest, ballet sometimes gets a bit of a reputation. All tutus and tradition, pirouetting its way into history like a lovely old book no one reads anymore. But is that really the case? In a time when AI is composing music, generating portraits, and even making videos, where does a classical art like ballet stand?
Spoiler alert: ballet is very much alive and dancing stronger than ever.
Miss Heather aiding her dance student at En Pointe Dance School
Ballet Is Not a Thing of the Past
Let’s start with the numbers. In 2023, the New York City Ballet saw a striking change in its audience. Over half of ticket buyers were under the age of 50. That’s a big shift from just a few years ago. In fact, people in their thirties now make up the largest age group attending performances. That’s hardly the sign of a fading art form.
Much of this is down to new energy in the industry. Collaborations with modern artists, more affordable ticketing, and a fresh approach to performance and accessibility. Even platforms like TikTok have given ballet a new lease of life. The hashtag #adultballet has attracted millions of views, as more and more people take up dance later in life, drawn in by the beauty, discipline and yes, even the nostalgia.
Ballet is no longer something you have to start at three years old or not at all. It’s becoming more inclusive, more varied, and in many ways, more exciting.
Can AI Replace Dance?
Here’s where things get interesting.
In a world full of ChatGPTs, robot painters, and AI-generated pop songs, some people worry that real human artistry is being lost. But here’s the thing. Dance cannot be automated. Not really.
Yes, AI can help us improve training. It can support choreography planning. There are even apps that track movement to correct technique. But what it cannot do is feel.
Dance, and ballet especially, is built on emotion, presence, and connection. You cannot teach a robot to leap with heartbreak or spin with joy. Dance is as human as it gets. That is exactly what makes it essential in this new tech-heavy world.
Why Dance Classes Matter More Than Ever
So, what does all this mean for children today?
As we lean further into screens, tablets, and AI homework helpers, the need for physical, creative outlets has never been greater. Attending regular dance classes offers more than just a workout. It builds resilience, boosts confidence and allows children to express themselves in ways that no algorithm ever could.
Dame Darcey Bussell recently said that dance helps children stay physically active, emotionally present, and socially connected. And she’s right. In a dance studio, children learn discipline, teamwork, musicality and self-worth, all while having a brilliant time.
For young children especially, being part of a nurturing dance school can be life-changing.
Ballet Has a Future, and It’s Looking Bright
Far from being a lost art, ballet is evolving. It’s reaching new people in new ways and proving that timeless tradition can still take centre stage in a modern world.
So whether you’re considering signing up your child or rediscovering your own love for dance as an adult, now is the perfect time to take that first step into the studio.
No matter how clever the tech becomes, there’s one thing it can never replace. The sheer magic of a live, human performance.