How to Do a Soutenu Turn

From The Ballet Coach · 2020

How to Do a Soutenu Turn
3 min3rd4th5th6thDance
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Summary

A clear breakdown of the soutenu turn, a smooth turning step that dancers use both on its own and to link other movements together. Aimed at dancers working at a slightly more advanced level, Sarah shows the footwork and the crossing that make the turn work.

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All ages

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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Talk about it

  1. A soutenu can stand alone or connect two steps -- why are linking steps useful in a dance?
  2. Which foot crosses, and which way do you turn?
  3. How is a soutenu turn different from a pirouette?

Quick work-a-long

Words to know: soutenu, linking step, cross, half-turn.

Try it: Follow along slowly, then do two soutenu turns in a row and freeze in a shape at the end.