Ballet Dictionary: Demi Pointe
Photo by Mark Sumaylo • Text by Abigail Oliveiro
What: Demi Pointe describes the position of the feet where the dancer has their full body weight on the balls of the feet at “half pointe”. Dancers can either perform on demi pointe, hold a position on demi pointe or use demi pointe as a passing position. For example, male dancers perform their roles in flat ballet shoes so demi pointe is often seen in poses and pirouettes or passing through a jump. However, as female dancers perform mostly in pointe shoes, you will find that they pass through demi pointe to be able to transition up and down smoothly in their shoes.
Tip: Whether passing through or performing on demi pointe, the alignment of the ankle has to be directly above the toes in a straight line to avoid “sickling” (rolling outward) or “fishing” (rolling inward). This not only ensures clean technique and line but also enforces a strong ankle and prevents the dancer from injury.
Ballet: Escamillo in Carmen
Dancer: Elpidio Magat, Principal Dancer
Location: Ballet Manila Studio 1
