Ballet, gender and sexuality: a systematic review in the scopus and web of science databases

This study aimed to map the international scientific literature on the intersection between ballet and gender and sexuality through a systematic review and bibliometric analysis. The Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases were searched. First, the term 'ballet' combined with 'gender' was searched, and then a separate search was conducted using the term 'ballet' combined with 'sexuality.' The main issues detected by researchers concerning women in ballet was that they are not given the same opportunities to develop their creativity and agency as men and are absent from leadership positions. As for men, multiple analyses have been conducted regarding how they break gender barriers when they enter this environment, and the link between ballet and homosexuality is frequently discussed from a social perspective. This can make those who identify as heterosexual feel that they should emphasize their masculine characteristics so as not to be mistaken for homosexuals. However, there is a lack of tension from the perspective of ballet as a protection against heteronormativity for men considered deviant in the broader social logic.