Name your dance major - NSC Dance Studies - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1

To perform a turn in ballet, it is essential to follow specific techniques that ensure both fluidity and stability.

1. Preparation: Begin with a strong stance, ensuring your feet are placed in a proper fifth position. Your arms should be rounded and held gracefully in front of you, ready to assist with balance.

2. Execution: As you start the turn, initiate movement from your standing leg, engaging your core to maintain balance. Use your plié (a bending of the knees) to generate momentum. You should use your arm’s movement to help propel you into the turn while keeping your head aligned with your spine.

3. Spotting: This technique is crucial for maintaining balance and preventing dizziness. Focus your gaze on a single spot as you turn, and quickly turn your head to refocus on the same spot once your body has completed half of the turn. This helps with orientation and control.

4. Completion: As you finish the turn, land softly into a stable position, ideally returning to the fifth position while maintaining poise and control. Distributing your weight evenly across both legs is key to completing the turn successfully and transitioning into the next movement smoothly.