Ballet Term
Pirouette
A pirouette is popular term in ballet that describes the turning around of a ballerina on a single leg with the other leg off the ground and in a position.
A pirouette is a turn of the body on one leg. The dancer balances on a single supporting leg, usually on a high demi-pointe or on pointe, while the other leg is held in a set position, most often retiré with the foot at the knee. It is one of the most recognizable steps in all of ballet and one of the first big turning skills young dancers work toward.
How it is performed
A pirouette starts from a preparation, often a plié in fourth or fifth position, which loads the legs like a spring. The dancer pushes up onto the supporting leg, snaps the working foot into retiré, and uses the arms to help start and control the turn. Turning outward, away from the supporting leg, is called en dehors, and turning inward, toward the supporting leg, is called en dedans. Throughout the turn the dancer stays pulled up over the supporting leg, with a strong core holding everything on top of a single point.
The role of spotting
Spotting is essential to a clean pirouette. The dancer fixes the eyes on one point, keeps looking at it as the body begins to turn, then whips the head around quickly to find the same point again. This keeps the dancer oriented and prevents dizziness, and it makes multiple turns possible.
Common mistakes
The most common problems are a weak preparation that does not give enough push, a working foot that slips down out of retiré, and arms that fly open and pull the turn off balance. Losing the pull-up over the supporting leg causes dancers to travel or fall off the turn. Strong core control, a clear spot, and staying lifted over one leg are the keys to a steady pirouette.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between en dehors and en dedans pirouettes?
En dehors turns outward, away from the supporting leg, while en dedans turns inward, toward the supporting leg. Both are common and dancers train in each direction.
Why do dancers spot during a pirouette?
Spotting keeps the dancer from getting dizzy and helps them stay oriented, fixing the eyes on one point and whipping the head around to find it again with each turn.
What position are the legs usually in during a pirouette?
Most often the supporting leg is straight on demi-pointe or pointe, and the working leg is in retiré with the foot at the knee, though other positions such as à la seconde are also used.