By Mignon Furman

Tip 1
Pirouette en dedans should be the easiest way to turn; it is the most natural. However, problems arise when turning is made so technical that the dancers become tense, restricting the movement.

Preparation is from a fourth position facing croisé with weight over the front foot on a bent knee with the back leg straight. The arms are in third with the same arm in front as the front leg.

Do not over-cross the croisé position and make certain that the shoulders and hips are aligned. The movement of the working leg should coordinate with the side arm. The working foot can come directly to the turning position (under the knee of the supporting leg) or pass through second. Try not to stop the turn but continue with the feeling of turning with the arms in first.

Tip 2
For piqué (posé) turns, dancers must push from demi-plié onto an extended, fully stretched leg. The arms open to second and then close into first position on the turn; coupe is performed on completing the turn. Stepping onto piqué without turning, and using the coupe to make the turn, is incorrect.

Arms should open on the piqué so that the leading arm points in the direction of travel. I tell young dancers that the leading arm is like a direction finder indicating where to go and the arm that closes is the engine.