What is a turn called in ballet? A turn, or rotation, is a movement in ballet where the dancer rotates their body in either one or multiple directions.
This can be done either on one leg or both legs, with the dancer keeping their feet in a first position. Turn steps are an important part of classical ballet and are usually used to add a decorative element to choreography.
There are various types of turns used in ballet, each with its own name and purpose. The most common turn is known as a pirouette, which is a single rotation on one foot. A pirouette can be done either facing forward, backward, or sideways; depending on the direction it’s done in it can also be known as an en dehors or en dedans turn.
The next type of turn is the fouetté, which translates to ‘whipped’ in French. This type of turn involves multiple rotations while ‘whipping’ the free leg around the body; it’s often done as part of an end phrase of choreography and can be done either facing forward or backward.
In addition to pirouettes and fouettés, there are other types of turns such as chaines (chains), piques (pricks), and sautés (jumps). Chaines involve multiple turns on one foot with alternating directions; piques involve turning from side-to-side while staying on pointe; sautés involve jumping from side-to-side while turning on both feet at the same time.
Turns are an important element for any dancer to master if they want to succeed in classical ballet. They require technique and strength, but once mastered can look effortless and beautiful when performed correctly. With practice and dedication any dancer will be able to perfect their turns and add them into their repertoire!
In conclusion, turns are an essential part of classical ballet that must be mastered by any aspiring dancer who wants to succeed. There are multiple types of turns such as pirouettes, fouettés, chaines, piques and sautés – each with its own purpose and technique that must be learnt by dancers if they want to perform them correctly. With practice and dedication any dancer will be able to master these steps and add them into their repertoire!