Cavalier

A cavalier is the male partner of a ballerina. In a pas de deux or other partnered dance, he is the dancer who supports, lifts, and presents his partner, helping her balance in turns and holding her in lifts and poses. The word highlights his supporting role: much of a cavalier’s job is to make his partner look secure and beautiful. You will often hear the term in the context of classical ballets where a prince or noble partner dances alongside the leading ballerina.