What Is Cloche in Ballet?

Ballet

What is Cloche in Ballet?

Cloche, meaning ‘bell’ in French, is a popular ballet step used in both classical and contemporary styles of ballet. It involves a series of quick, precise movements that are usually performed to music. The movements are often small and delicate, resembling the ringing of a bell or the movement of a clock’s pendulum.

The cloche step is considered one of the most difficult steps for dancers to master due to its intricate nature. It requires balance, precision and strength from the dancer. As with any ballet step, it is important for the dancer to practice their technique regularly to ensure accuracy and consistency.

When doing a cloche step, dancers begin by standing on one leg and then quickly shifting their weight between both legs while maintaining balance. They then move their feet in an outward circling motion while keeping their arms extended outwards. This creates an elegant effect that resembles the ringing of bells or the movement of a clock’s pendulum.

The cloche step can be used as part of many different combinations such as pas de bourrées and pirouettes. It is also often used in variations on classical dances like Swan Lake or The Nutcracker Suite. The step can also be seen in contemporary ballets such as George Balanchine’s Serenade or Jerome Robbins’ Afternoon of a Faun.

Cloche steps can be used together with other steps to create intricate patterns and sequences that add complexity to ballets and make them more interesting for audiences to watch. Dancers must take care when performing this step as incorrect technique can lead to injury or imbalance during performances.

Conclusion

Cloche is an important ballet step that requires precision, strength, balance and practice from dancers in order to master it successfully. When combined with other steps it can create intricate patterns that add complexity and interest to ballets which audiences find captivating when watching performances.