Photo by Mark Sumaylo • Text by Abigail Oliveiro 

Step: Tour en l’air (in Passé)

What: A tour en l’air is a jumping movement and it means to turn in the air. This is where the dancer, from 5th position in plié, jumps straight upward and completes at least one revolution in the air before landing. The image depicts a still motion of a tour en l’air in passé. Therefore the dancer, with the same preparation, jumps straight up and completes the revolution in a passé before landing. A tour en l’air in passé can be performed by both male and female dancers. However, typically male dancers are required to perform a double tour at least.

Tips: Going into a passé may be a little tricky and some dancers anticipate the leg lifting too soon, which causes an imbalance in the air. Try to remember that the jump comes from two legs and hence, push securely from two feet in the plié to get a direct upward motion. Keep the shoulders level as well. Just like in a pirouette, don’t forget to flip your head to help the revolutions.

Ballet: Flames of Paris, Male variation

Dancer: Rafael Perez, Ballet Manila 2

Location: Ballet Manila Studio 3