pirouette sur le cou-de-pied
Quick Summary
A pirouette sur le cou-de-pied is a ballet turn performed in place on one leg, with the raised foot resting on the supporting ankle. The term "pirouette" itself means "to whirl about" and refers to a rapid turning motion.12
In ballet, pirouettes can be executed in spectacular series. Women typically perform them on pointe (on their toes), while men perform them on demi-pointe (on the ball of the foot). The direction of the turn can be en dehors (outward or backward) or en dedans (inward or forward). Dancers can hold the raised leg in various positions, such as at the front, side, or back.1
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