Photo by Mark Sumaylo • Text by Abigail Oliveiro

Step: Fondu

How: A fondu describes a controlled and gradual movement of a dancer bending their supporting leg. Where a “plié” is done on two legs, a fondu is done on a single leg. The dancer’s working leg may be in various positions à terre (on the ground) or en l’air (in the air). Here, the dancer is in first arabesque en l’air. 

Tip: As with all pliés, a fondu should be done with the knee bending over the supporting foot for correct alignment, which also prevents injury. A fondu is a very important step as it helps the dancer gain strength and control when done properly, which prepares the dancer for many other steps such as pirouettes and jumps. 

Ballet: Giselle, Act 2, Wilis (chugs across the stage in arabesque fondu)

Dancer: Akari Ida, Ballet Manila company artist

Location: Ballet Manila Studio 1