“Types of ballerinas” can mean two things: company ranks (from corps de ballet to principal) or traditional role types (like lyrical or soubrette). Here’s how both work.
Company ranks
| Rank | Role |
|---|---|
| Apprentice or trainee | Learns repertoire, dances in some corps parts |
| Corps de ballet | The ensemble dancing in unison |
| Coryphée or demi-soloist | Leads small groups and dances small solos (in some companies) |
| Soloist (and first soloist) | Dances solo roles and some leads |
| Principal | The top rank, dancing leading roles |
Titles differ between companies; the Paris Opera Ballet uses names like quadrille, sujet and étoile.
Traditional role types
- Lyrical: soft, flowing roles such as Giselle in Act II.
- Soubrette: light, bright, charming roles like Swanilda in Coppélia.
- Dramatic: roles needing strong acting, such as Juliet.
- Bravura or virtuoso: dazzling technical roles like Kitri in Don Quixote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest rank in ballet?
Principal dancer (called étoile at the Paris Opera Ballet).
Is “ballerina” a rank?
Historically “prima ballerina” was a top title; today “ballerina” is often used for any female ballet dancer.
How long does it take to become a principal?
It varies widely, from a few years to more than a decade, and many dancers never reach it.
