Ballet is a classical form of dance that has been around for centuries and continues to be popular today. It is based on the art of movement and is one of the most expressive forms of dance. Ballet dancers use their feet, arms, and body to create beautiful, graceful movements.
The terms used in ballet dancing are important for any dancer to know in order to understand the steps and techniques that make up this art form. Ballet terms can be separated into two categories: steps and positions. Steps are the actual movements that create a ballet routine or dance and positions refer to how the body should be held during each step.
Steps include plié, jeté, pas de chat, relevé, arabesque, sissonne, fouetté, grand jeté, and battement. Plié is a simple bending of the knees while Jeté is a jump with one leg extended behind it. Pas de chat refers to a sideways jump with one leg lifted up high while Relevé is a rise onto the toes or demi-pointe (half point).
Arabesque includes extending one leg out behind while Sissonne is a jump from two feet onto one foot. Fouetté is a whipping motion that involves quickly turning around while Grand Jeté is an extremely high jump with legs extended into an arabesque position. Lastly Battement refers to quick kicking motions of the legs.
Positions include first position (feet together), second position (heels apart), third position (right foot in front of left), fourth position (left foot in front of right), fifth position (right heel touching left toe), sixth position (left heel touching right toe). All other positions involve various combinations or variations of these basic positions such as devant/derrière (front/back) or écarté/croisée (side/crossed). Each position requires perfect alignment from head to toe for correct execution.
In order to become proficient in ballet dancing it’s essential for dancers to learn all these terms as well as practice their technique regularly in order to perfect their craft.
In conclusion, ballet dancing requires mastering many different terms in order to successfully execute steps and positions correctly. Knowing each term will help dancers create beautiful routines with grace and poise that will captivate audiences around the world.