I cannot avoid condemning all those who, from self-conceit have the pretension to imitate great artists of the past. If their powers of emotion be weak, their powers of expression will be likewise.

This art, born of genius and good taste, can become beautiful and varied to an infinite degree.

It is shameful that dancing should renounce the empire it might assert over the mind and only endeavor to please the sight.

In order that our art may arrive at the degree of the sublime which I demand and hope for, it is imperative for dancers to divide their time and studies between the mind and the body, and that both become the object of their application; but, unfortunately, all is given to the latter and nothing to the former. The legs are rarely guided by the brain, and, since intelligence and taste do not reside in the feet, one often goes astray.

Applause lavished at a whim and without discernment, often proves the ruin of young people training for a stage career.

Dancing and ballets would undoubtedly take on a new lease on life, if the customs established by a spirit of fear and jealousy did not in some way close the path of glory.

A fine picture is but the image of nature; a finished ballet is nature herself.