Chassé en tournant

A chassé en tournant is a chassé that adds a turn. In a plain chassé, one foot chases the other across the floor as the dancer slides and travels. In the en tournant version, the dancer performs a single turn in the air as the feet and legs gather together, then lands on the back leg with the front leg extended forward. The result is a traveling, turning step that carries the dancer through space while changing direction.

How the step works

The movement begins like a chassé, with a sliding, gathering action of the feet. As the legs come together in the air, the dancer rotates through one full turn. The landing arrives on the back leg while the front leg stretches out in front, ready to continue into the next step. Because the turn happens while the body is traveling, timing the rotation with the gathering of the legs is what keeps the step smooth rather than rushed.

Where you see it

Chassé en tournant is often used as a linking or connecting step, helping a dancer change facing or set up for a bigger movement such as a jump or a series of turns. Keeping the upper body lifted, spotting the direction of travel, and using a clear push from the floor will make the turn feel controlled and let the step flow naturally into whatever comes next.