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.
Viewer safety
All ages
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Talk about it
- A soutenu can stand alone or connect two steps -- why are linking steps useful in a dance?
- Which foot crosses, and which way do you turn?
- 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.

