Ballet Dictionary: Sissonne Attitude
Photo by Mark Sumaylo • Text by Abigail Oliveiro
Step: Sissonne Attitude. The word “Sissonne” describes a scissor-like movement.
How: Starting in 5th position, the dancer jumps up, opening the legs in a scissor-like motion with the front leg fully extended and the back leg in Attitude. In this Sissone, the dancer has her arms in 5th position, allowing her to arch her back fully at the height of the jump.
Tip: Always start with a deep plié and lift the hips up with you to achieve a larger jump. There is a tendency with this particular Sissone to forget about the front leg and lift just the back leg. Try to give the front leg a good battement to achieve a better line.
Ballet: Don Quixote Act 1, Kitri’s Variation
Dancer: Nanami Hasegawa, Company Artist
Location: Ballet Manila Studio 3
