QUESTION 5: DANCE PERFORMANCE (COMPULSORY) Name your dance major - NSC Dance Studies - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1

To perform a turn in Ballet, the dancer must follow a series of steps that ensure proper technique and balance.

Before the Turn

1. Preparation: Begin with a solid stance, ensuring the feet are in the correct position (often starting in fifth position). The dancer should engage their core muscles to maintain stability.
2. Posture and Alignment: Maintain an upright torso with shoulders down and relaxed. The arms should be in a graceful position, often rounded in front of the body or extended to the side.

During the Turn

1. Initiation: The turn should be initiated by the core, using the plié in the preparation step to gather momentum.
2. Spotting: The dancer should focus on a fixed point in front of them, turning their head quickly during the turn to refocus on the spot, which aids in maintaining balance and rhythm.
3. Body Alignment: Keep the alignment of the body centered and avoid leaning, which can disrupt balance. The legs should be pulled up and turned out appropriately.

After the Turn

1. Completion: As the dancer completes the turn, they should come back to a stable position, smoothly transitioning back into the choreography.
2. Recovery: Ensure that the body is controlled and doesn’t wobble. Maintaining balance and grace upon landing is crucial to finish the turn effectively.