LE BALLET JOVENTUT

Ballet Joventut de Perpignan

History and Tradition

Founded in 1955 by Henri Balalud, the Ballet Joventut de Perpignan is a cornerstone of cultural life in the Haut-Vernet district. As an association dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Catalan dance, it has introduced generations of children to the vibrant traditions of the region. On November 9, 2023, the Ballet Joventut was officially recognized as the Esbart of the City of Perpignan, a testament to its significant role in the local cultural landscape.

Performances and Recognition

The Ballet Joventut de Perpignan is known for its dynamic performances, both within the department and internationally, including notable shows in Japan. The group's repertoire includes traditional Catalan dances, with a focus on historical accuracy and cultural authenticity. Their performances are not mere reconstructions but evocative representations of traditional and popular costumes from the Roussillon to Cerdanya regions, spanning from the late 18th to mid-19th centuries.

Traditional Costumes

The Ballet Joventut’s costumes are a colorful display of Catalan heritage. For instance, the traditional Dansa Pagesa highlights the distinctive attire of Cerdanya, with women wearing the unique caputxa, a pointed hood not found in other regions. In contrast, the Roussillon area features the characteristic Catalan coiffe, while in Cerdanya, a transparent netting called résille is worn, often covered with a cotton or printed scarf.

Wool plays a significant role in the traditional clothing of Roussillon, used in making caputxas and other garments. The white bayette fabric, made in Prats de Mollo, is typical for young girls, while darker shades are reserved for married women. Men’s attire includes woolen barratinas and faixas, and in the mountainous Cerdanya, knitted cotton or woolen stockings were common throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.

Cultural Significance

The Ballet Joventut’s vibrant costumes and performances breathe life into Catalan traditions. Men’s outfits include wooden clogs and woolen capes, essential for pastoral activities and transhumance. The female dancers' layered skirts and aprons, often depicted in historical paintings like Gustave Violet’s "Catalane aux cruches," reflect practical and decorative elements of the time.

Community Support

The Ballet Joventut de Perpignan benefits from a partnership with the City of Perpignan, which supports the association’s participation in various cultural events with an annual contribution of €6,000. This collaboration ensures the preservation and dissemination of Catalan traditions, aligning the Ballet Joventut with other esteemed cultural groups such as the Cobla Mil·lenària and the Colla Gegantera de Perpignan.

Join Us

The Ballet Joventut de Perpignan invites you to experience the rich cultural heritage of Catalonia through its captivating performances. Join us at our next event and witness the living tradition of Catalan dance, as we celebrate the history and vibrant spirit of our community.